FOR THE first time in four years, the University celebrated the Blue Eagle Bonfire held last January 21 at the Ateneo Grade School Parking Lot.

This was in commemoration of all first semester achievements: The World University rankings, debate world championships, and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) championships.

“This is the first celebration of [such] a kind since our last championship and even a huge gathering for a celebration of excellence after the COVID-19 lockdown,” Vilches said.

A community thanksgiving

The last bonfire was held in 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted the abrupt end of UAAP Season 82 and the cancellation of Season 83.

This year, the Men’s Basketball, Women’s Badminton, and Men’s Swimming teams each secured a gold medal finish in the recent UAAP Season 85.

In celebration of these achievements, University President Roberto “Bobby” Yap, SJ said that this was the first bonfire with all teams under a single name—the Blue Eagles—denoting a “stronger and more united team of athletes.”

The most notable part of the event was the lighting of the bonfire, alongside the singing of the Ateneo hymn, A Song for Mary. A captivating fireworks display then followed. 

During the last stretch, the Itchyworms, Sponge Cola, and Travis Monsod performed at the After Party Concert. Notably, the former two are Ateneo alumni.

Going international

While the bonfire is traditionally held for UAAP achievements, the University’s recent international feats did not go unnoticed. Last October 12, the Ateneo was dubbed the Times Higher Education’s (THE) Top 1 Philippine university. According to Vilches, it is the University’s research and publication citations that helped attain this achievement.

Moreover, the Ateneo Debate Society also bested three universities in the World Universities Debating Championships last January 4. Team Ateneo A’s David Africa and Tobi Leung were also crowned the world’s 8th Best Speaker and 2nd Best Speaker, respectively.

“With any sport, people don’t remember the titles. People don’t remember the championships. They remember the stories. They remember that you gave a great performance.” Leung shared.

Excelling in magis

Highlighting the Ignatian value of magis or “more,” Vilches stated that these achievements are indications that the University never stopped doing quality work amid the pandemic.

Africa asserted that there is much value in trying as hard as you can, while Leung expressed that one must never go into things half-heartedly.