Becarios de Santo Tomas, not merely the sole scholars’ organization of the University of Santo Tomas (UST), but also an existingfamily for all the gifted, hard working, competent, committed and compassionate Thomasian scholars, have been blessed with so much by God that they have this strong desire to bless others as well. With currently 63 Butil scholars being cared of by the organization, as a sign of its endless gratitude for the wonderful gifts it has received through the years, Becarios de Santo Tomas took another huge step towards fulfilling its ultimate goal: to be ALL OUT. Thus, a different kind of fun, energizing, healthful, and enjoying race was launched by the organization last September 23, 2012 within the solemn and relaxing UST Grounds. It was a race with a little twist since it was held in one of those starry nights, giving the participants a great number of attractive glow sticks of different colors which made the whole run a much more exciting experience.
Every staff member of the organization was filled with pressure, tension and exhaustion because of the great number of people, the several changes and adjustments done within the event, plus the presence of the almost scorching sun. It was clearly seen with the busy yet tired looks and the sweat on their faces. Still, their great desire to make this huge event a success and to be of service to the runners prevailed, giving them the strength to rise above all odds and serve every participant with a smile.
It was a great time looking at those generous people – children, teenagers, adults, students, professionals, and most of all, fellow Thomasians – who spent money, time and effort in supporting this project.Some were there because running for a cause is already part of their lives and they would be much willing to help people who are in great need. Others were there also for the benefit of having a healthier mind and body. There were several who considered the event as a break from their normal routines, a stress reliever. They may have various reasons of being participants but one thing is common in them: They were the reason why Kislap: Butil Night Race 2012 ended as a dream and transformed into a reality.
When the sky was getting darker and darker and the people were coming closer to the start of the race, there was a very sudden outpour of the torturing rain, causing almost everything and everyone to be soaking wet. But that did not stop them from the fun and enjoyment in being a part of the whole activity.
The race finally took place and hundreds of people, although soaked by the rain, were having fun under the starry night with the glow sticks on hand. It was indeed a tiring yet enjoyable event for everyone.
Every participant has his own story to tell. And of course, we can’t help wondering about the personal motivations of two of the Butil Night Race’s winners for joining the event. Two of the four winners in their respective categories were Mr. Michael Bacong from San Sebastian-Manila and Mr. Roger Dinoro, a Thomasian alumnus from the Faculty of Arts and Letters. Both were dedicated in being a part of such events. For them, running means a lot because it does not only makes you physically fit and healthy, but, more importantly, it is for a cause.
“Kapagkasi may mgaganitong projects ang UST, we support them talaga. Sumasali kami… It’s for a cause talaga”, Mr. Bacongshared during the interview. He may not have the Thomasian identity but he has the heart for charity – the heart that chooses no institution to support; the heart that has a genuine desire, that is, to do things for a greater cause.
“Of course, they’re for a cause; for UST Simbahayan. Besides, it’s also a way of showing my loyalty to my alma mater...” saidMr. Dinoro, who, on the other hand, is a true blooded Thomasian and through this event, he showed his loyalty to the institution that he once considered [and will forever consider] as home. The athletic alumnus also has a heart for giving and he never forgot to exert some effort in supporting the activities held within his alma mater.