Friar's Desk

In this episode of Friar’s Desk , Archbishop Bernardito C. Auza, Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union and Thomasian alumnus, shares his journey from Bohol to the halls of global diplomacy. He reflects on how his Thomasian roots continue to shape his service to the Church and the world—where faith and dialogue meet in truth and charity.

Meet Alice Galang Eduardo , UST Commerce alumna and CEO of Sta. Elena Construction . Known as the “Woman of Steel,” she has built the nation’s major infrastructures while uplifting countless lives through her philanthropy. Recently conferred Doctor of Commerce, honoris causa , Ms. Eduardo embodies the Thomasian spirit of competence, commitment, and compassion —turning success into service for God...

In this special episode of Friars Desk , we welcome three student-brothers from the United States—Br. Bonaventure Paul-Bonham, OP, Br. David Hardy, OP, and Br. Martin Mary Bauer, OP—currently in theological formation as Dominican friars. Together, they reflect on their personal vocations, the challenges and joys of community life, and the evolving mission of preaching in the digital age. With stor...

In this heartfelt episode of Friar’s Desk , Fr. Glenmar Gamboa, OP—16th Parish Priest of the Santísimo Rosario Parish at UST—shares his journey of faith, the calling that led him to the Dominican life, and the unique vocation of serving a parish at the heart of a university. He reflects on the joys and responsibilities of ministering to students, faculty, and the broader Thomasian community, offer...

In this nostalgic and scholarly episode, Dr. Maria Eloisa G. Parco-de Castro revisits UST’s time in Intramuros, uncovering how it shaped generations before the war. Through vivid historical accounts, listeners are transported to the classrooms, traditions, and values that defined Thomasian life behind the walled city.

USec. Claire Castro—lawyer, educator, and now Malacañang Press Officer—joins Friar’s Desk to reflect on how her Thomasian identity continues to guide her work in national government. Discover how formation, values, and faith impact leadership and communication at the highest level.

In this dynamic episode of Friar’s Desk , Sr. Marissa Alila, O.P., Fr. Joel Camaya, SDB, and Seminarian Enrico Macrohon dive into the evolving world of digital evangelization. As the Church steps into the digital public square, they explore how religious communities and faith-based content creators are harnessing the power of social media and digital platforms to proclaim the Gospel. From TikTok t...

In this enlightening episode of Friar’s Desk , Assistant Dean Claudette A. Agnes, PhD, Ms. Kathryn P. Hipolito, MA, and Sr. Angelina M. Julom, PhD delve into the realities of stress in today’s fast-paced world—whether it stems from family responsibilities, professional demands, or personal struggles. With wisdom rooted in both psychological expertise and spiritual insight, they reflect on how fait...

In this episode of Friars Desk , we sit down with Karmina Constantino , a trusted and compelling voice in Philippine journalism. As a veteran broadcast journalist and the anchor of Dateline Philippines on ANC, Karmina is known for her fearless pursuit of truth, incisive interviews, and unshakable poise in the face of pressing national issues. With over two decades in the industry, she has become a...

In this special episode, Friar’s Desk welcomes Ms. Kara David , award-winning journalist and one of the esteemed hosts of the iconic documentary program i-Witness , as it celebrates 25 years of storytelling that gives voice to the unheard. Ms. David reflects on the power of journalism rooted in empathy, dignity, and truth. She shares how her encounters with diverse communities across the country h...

In this special episode of Friar’s Desk , held in celebration of the Albertus Magnus Faith and Science Lecture, guests Br. Bryan Cervando , Sr. Angelina Julom , and Prof. Rey Donne S. Papa, PhD —Dean of the UST College of Science—engage in a thoughtful conversation on the enduring harmony between faith and science. Together, they confront the persistence of superstitions and false beliefs, offerin...

In this visionary episode of Friar’s Desk , we explore the bold steps of the University of Santo Tomas as it expands to Mindanao with the establishment of UST General Santos —the first UST campus in the region. Joining the conversation are Asst. Prof. Albert S. Surla, MSCE , Assistant Director of the Facilities Management Office; Prof. Emeritus Maribel G. Nonato, PhD , Assistant to the Rector for...

In this special Lenten episode of Friar’s Desk , legal professionals Atty. Irene D. Valones, DCL and Atty. Gay Christine L. Cortes reflect deeply on the themes of conversion and healing during the sacred season of Lent. More than just legal minds, they offer heartfelt insights on personal transformation, spiritual renewal, and the intersection of faith and vocation. With thoughtful reflections dra...

In this special episode of Friar’s Desk , we welcome Bishop Napoleon Balili Sipalay, Jr., O.P. , recently appointed as the Fourth Bishop of the Diocese of Alaminos. A Dominican priest deeply rooted in service, he shares his inspiring vocation story—from his early formation to his time as Vice Rector of the UST Central Seminary, and now, to the threshold of the episcopacy. With humility and depth,...

In this inspiring episode of Friar’s Desk , we sit down with Maria Lourdes L. Santiago-Antonio, LPT, MA (Director of the Center for Campus Ministry) and Asst. Prof. Paul A. Castillo, MA (Creative Writing mentor and educator) to reflect on the role of faith-filled leadership in academic and pastoral life. The conversation explores how these servant-leaders foster positive, dynamic environments—guid...

In celebration of World Patient Safety Day, this special episode of Friar’s Desk highlights the vital commitment of healthcare professionals in ensuring safe and quality care. Joining the conversation are Dr. Lara Mae A. Angeles (Clinical Pathology), Ms. Tyona Marie F. Gesite, MAN, RN (Chief of Nursing Services), and Prof. Consuelo G. Suarez, MD, PhD, FPARM (Chair, Clinical Practice Guideline Comm...

In this insightful episode of Friar’s Desk , we shine a light on the often unsung heroes of education and culture—our librarians. Joining us are Kaori B. Fuchigami, RL (Assistant Head, General Reference and Information Section), Sr. Lib. Raquel B. Lontoc, RL, MLIS (Head, General Reference and Information Section), and Maria Cecilia D. Lobo (Chief Librarian of UST and elected member of the Philippi...

In this enriching episode of Friar’s Desk , we explore the many dimensions of aging with two distinguished guests: Asst. Prof. Cecille Ann C. Pilapil from the UST College of Science Department of Psychology and Dr. Inocencio P. Alejandro , an expert in Geriatric Medicine and Rheumatology from the UST Hospital. Together, they delve into the psychological, emotional, and physical aspects of growing...

In this inspiring episode of Friar’s Desk , we sit down with three remarkable senior students— Charles Mina (Accountancy), Kim Emerenciana (Communication), and Mikhael Mandap (Secondary Education)—as they reflect on their academic journeys. From late-night study sessions to moments of personal growth and spiritual discovery, these Thomasians share the challenges, triumphs, and turning points that...

In this heartfelt episode of Friar’s Desk , we are joined by mental health professionals from the University of Santo Tomas— Dr. Ma. Claudette A. Agnes (Assistant Dean, College of Science), Ms. Carmen S. Quesada, MA, RGC, RPm , Prof. Ryan Francis O. Cayubit, PhD, RPsy, RPm , and Asst. Prof. Karen Katrina Trinidad, PhD —to explore the vital link between mental wellness and spiritual life. Through o...

In this vibrant episode of Friar’s Desk , we delve into the phenomenon that is BTS , the South Korean boy band that has inspired a global following through music, movement, and message. Joined by Ellis Mika C. Triño, MSc , Asst. Prof. Ma. Ailil B. Alvarez, MA , Bridget Arrogancia , and Assoc. Prof. Anna Marie H. Bautista, MCHS, LPT , we explore how BTS goes beyond entertainment—touching on themes...

In this thought-provoking episode of Friar’s Desk , we are joined by religion educators and scholars from the University of Santo Tomas: Andrew Joseph S. Chanco, MRS , Prof. Marites Rano-Redoña, PhD , Prof. Chito M. Sawit, PhD , and Asst. Prof. Claudita O. Yaranon. Together, they explore the transformative role of religion classes in faith-based education. More than academic subjects, these classe...

In this meaningful episode of Friar’s Desk , we journey into the heart of the Filipino identity through the lens of language and literature. Joining the conversation are esteemed educators and advocates: Prof. Wennielyn F. Fajilan, PhD (Chair, UST Sentro sa Salin at Araling Salin), Asst. Prof. Alvin Ringgo C. Reyes, MA (College Secretary, College of Education; former Chair, Department of Filipino)...

In this reflective episode of Friar’s Desk , we sit down with educators Mr. Christopher Paulo T. Manlapaz (Senior High School), Mrs. Karen S. Yoma (Junior High School), and Mr. Philip Jose S. Hernandez (Education and Senior High School) to explore the role of the English language in the Philippines. From its place in the classroom to its influence on culture and identity, this conversation unpacks...

In this insightful episode of Friar’s Desk , we explore the evolving role of media in shaping minds, preserving culture, and advancing education. Joining us are distinguished Thomasian leaders: Mr. Philippe Jose Hernandez, MEng (Director, UST Communications Bureau), Asst. Prof. Ma. Alil Alvarez, MA (Director, UST Publishing House), Ms. Katherine Patrice Sibug, MA (Assistant Director, Office of Pub...