The University of Makati (UMak) soared higher than ever as it held Herons’ Welcome 2025 on September 5 at the UMak Oval, with the theme ‘Ignite the Flight, Rise of One Heron.’ Organized by the UMak Student Council (USC), the celebration leveled up from last year’s water-splash concept that was exclusive to Grade 11 and College freshmen by opening this year’s event to the entire UMak community showcasing a hydro-foam party and featuring guest artists for a night full of music and festivities.
Despite light rain drizzles, the event kicked off with a lively parade of different colleges and institutes, followed by games and dance challenges participated by the students.
UMak Siglahi, UMak Pep Squad, UMak Chorale, CAST, UMak Jammers, as well as Nexus PH filled the stage with energy. The introduction of candidates for Mr. and Ms. UMak Paragon 2026: Bare & Rare (MMU 2026) also drew cheers from the crowd.
“Pinapakita natin dito sa UMak na hindi lang academics ‘yung focus natin. Talagang binibigyan natin sila ng pagkakataon, na sinasabi nga natin sa tagline — to Rise, Shine, Anywhere,” emphasized by the University President, Prof. Elyxzur C. Ramos, that the event embodies UMak’s vision for student life.
(“Here at UMak, we show that our focus is not only on academics. We truly give students the opportunity, as we say in our tagline — to Rise, Shine, Anywhere.”)
Current Makati Councilors from different districts, Hon. Marie Alethea Casal-Uy, Hon. Kristina T. Sarosa, Hon. Maribel F. Vitales, Hon. Nemesio S. Yabut Jr., Hon. Levy E. Ramboyong, and Hon. Bernadette T. Sese also attended the event, extending their support and congratulations to the students.
From last year’s purely internal lineup, this year reached another level as guest artists from Viva Records and Viva Films became the most awaited part for the Herons. Rhodessa, Dana Paulene, and Earl Agustin graced the stage with their song performances. The ‘Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para Kay Luna’ cast, Ashtine Olviga and Andres Muhlach (AshDres), also sang their rendition of ‘Minamahal.’
“Dinagsa po kasi ‘yung Herons’ Welcome natin lalo na nung nalaman nila ‘yung guest artists… sobrang tao [rin] and marami [ring] estudyanteng nag-enjoy,” acknowledged by the USC Vice President and the Event Head, Mr. Lou Diamond F. Posadas, both the challenges and success of the event.
(“Our Herons’ Welcome was flooded with attendees, especially after they found out about the guest artists… there were so many people and a lot of students really enjoyed.”)
With the UMak Jammers ending the night, the unforgettable foam party reached its high. The event brought every Heron together to rise, shine, and take flight together.
PANOORIN: UMaksyon Express – September 6, 2025
Written by Tara Faye Cuizon
