07/11/2025
Masks Off, Spirits Up
On the afternoon of October 29, the halls of STI transformed into a scene straight out of a movie; alive with characters, creativity, and color. Booths from various clubs opened their doors, inviting students into different worlds far beyond than just their classrooms.
Each corner of the campus told its own story. STIletes summoned chills through The Conjuring, Sipnayan hoisted their pirate flags, and the Cuisine et Tourisme Club brought whimsy to life with their enchanting Fairy Land. Even science took a thrilling twist with Cool Genes’ Dimension to Madness, while The Managers’ League served sweet frights through The Fudge. The Virtuoso Guild’s The Scream and Code Camp Society’s Five Nights at Freddy’s rounded out the lineup, joined by the Student Executive Council committees—from Print Journalism to TV Broadcasting, Multimedia Production, and Environmental C terribleare. This only proves that STI knows how to mix fun alongside with purpose.
For many, this wasn’t just an event; it was an experience—one that gave students a chance to express themselves freely. “I’m super happy because this is my first experience, and the people around are super good. I think STI should do this again next year to bring students confidence," said Ashley from HUMSS 102, dressed as the cartoon character Strawberry Shortcake.
On the other hand, Paul Alforte, a third-year BSIT student dressed as the Witch King of Angmar from The Lord of the Rings, explained, "Cosplaying allows you to be a character you like-to portray what they truly are through creativity and effort. These kinds of events bring students closer together through interaction."
The champion of the cosplay competition however, had a different take. Wearing a costume inspired by corrupt government officials, he explained, “I just wanted to show up and do my best. This cosplay is my way of spreading awareness, to remind people the issues in the Philippines. I want people to talk about it again and solve it.”
Beyond the costumes and competition, the event also celebrated teamwork and perseverance. "After two or three days of hard work, it's so fulfilling to see it pay off,"” Grethel Mae Ortega of STEM 304 commented; a dancer and the president of Rock Study, the club behind the winning booth. She also added: "It's not just about winning as a club, but about how we built closeness and unity through this experience.”
As the day faded, the event showed that when given the chance to connect and express themselves, STI students never fail to bring magic to life.
✍🏻: Corene Andrin
🎨: Nicole Faller
