Faith, gratitude, and shared purpose at the heart of UB’s milestone celebration
On February 9, 2026, the Juan Y. Javier Culture & Arts Building welcomed UB students, faculty, and employees for a meaningful Thanksgiving Mass. The air felt calm, yet full of purpose. The gathering reflected the spirit of the 80th Founding Anniversary with the theme, UB at 80: Celebrating Excellence, A Legacy of Greatness. Soft prayers, gentle music, and shared silence filled the space. It was not just a gathering. It was a shared expression of gratitude, faith, and belonging for the six founding fathers.
UB Alumni Priests Rev. Fr. Christopher Mapalad, OSJ, and Rev. Fr. Leonido Dolor led the Mass with warmth and sincerity. Rev. Fr. Dolor spoke about the founders’ Christian humanistic values and their courage in building an institution like UB. He highlighted the six founding fathers’ openness and dedication to serving every Batangueño through quality education. His message encouraged reflection. It showed how strong leadership, service, and vision continue to guide the university today.
In a brief and heartfelt moment, Fr. Dolor also shared a glimpse of his own journey, from his days as Editor-in-Chief of The Westernian Advocate to his calling to the priesthood, reflecting how UB helps shape lives rooted in Spirit, Intellect, and Purpose.
As the Mass ended, a sense of renewal filled the hall. Many left with deeper respect for UB’s roots and stronger appreciation for its mission. The Thanksgiving Mass showed that the 80th Founding Anniversary is not only about remembering the past. It is about moving forward with purpose. It is about living the values that the six founding fathers left behind: their excellence and their legacy of greatness. Through faith, purpose, and spirit, UB continues to guide and inspire its community.
