On 7 May 2025, Saint Louis University (SLU) honored outstanding students, organizations, and advisers at the 16th Gawad San Luis Awards held at the Fr. Joseph Van den Daelen – Center for Culture and the Arts (CCA) Theater at the SLU Main Campus.
Organized by the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), headed by Triceayn Marie Prestousa, RPsy, RPm, the annual ceremony recognizes exemplary performances that uphold the university’s mission and vision, emphasizing the commitment to excellence and service within the Louisian community.
The event commenced with the Magni Soni of the School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies (SAMCIS) leading the opening prayer, “The Blessing,” followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.
SLU President, Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, addressed the community, stating, “As you continue to grow, pursuing your passions, remember that the true measure of success lies in how you use your talents to serve others and foster a compassionate community rooted in Christian values. Your achievements today are seeds that will blossom into lasting impacts, inspiring future generations and shaping a better society for all of us.”
The awards were presented by the Board of Judges: Melody Labawig, Education Supervisor-CHED CAR; Adrian Fernandez, President of the Outstanding Students of CAR Alumni Community; Atty. Lian Estrada Rimando, 2025 Executive Director of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Philippines; and Rev. Fr. Rumpearl Tenkings Isaac, CICM, Chaplain of Saint Louis College (SLC) of San Fernando City, La Union.
Awards
- Jose Rizal Award for Competence
This award is presented to students who, representing the university, have achieved the highest recognition in national or international academic competitions, sports, or leadership awards.
Winner: Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers - Fernando Amorsolo Award for Innovation
is given to the student organization that has significantly contributed to promoting innovation and creativity within the university community.
Winner: Society of Integrated Commercians for Academic Progress - Ramon Magsaysay Award for Compassion
is bestowed upon the student organization that has played a pivotal role in promoting compassion and social responsibility.
Winner: Society of Integrated Commercians for Academic Progress - Jose Burgos Award for Christian Spirit
is awarded to the student organization that has excelled in fostering quality Christian formation programs.
Winner: Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants – SLU Chapter
Major Awards
- Presidential Award for Best Extra-Curricular Student Organization
recognizes the student organization that has demonstrated excellence in extra-curricular activities.
Winner: Society of Integrated Commercians for Academic Progress - Presidential Award for Best Co-Curricular Student Organization
acknowledges the student organization that has excelled in co-curricular engagements.
Winner: Psyche Society - Presidential Award for Excellence in Leadership
is conferred upon an individual student who has shown exceptional leadership qualities.
Winner: Chester Bjorn Miravel, SLU Political Science Academic Society
By recognizing and celebrating academic and extracurricular excellence, SLU fosters an environment that supports the development of skills and knowledge essential for sustainable development. This event underscores SLU’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal SDG 4: Quality Education, as it ensures inclusive and equitable quality education and promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Additionally, the awards highlight SLU’s alignment with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the means of implementation and revitalizing the global partnership for sustainable development. The collaboration among various student organizations, faculty, and external partners exemplifies the collective effort required to achieve sustainable development objectives.
The unwavering dedication of Louisians stands as a testament to the transformative power of education rooted in faith and excellence. This commitment resonates deeply with SLU’s guiding principle, “Missio et Excellentia,” which intertwines missionary spirit with the relentless pursuit of excellence.
In this light, the contributions of the Louisian community transcend mere service; they embody a living testament to the University’s mission to transform society through excellence in education and faith. (Article by Faithe Janerie Dugay, UIO Intern | Photos by Jaymark Borja, UIO Intern)
