Southwestern University PHINMA (SWU PHINMA) unveiled the grandest school opening in the Southern Philippines as Mundo Granate 2024 “Unmasking” officially commenced last August 10, 2024 at the University Ballpark.
Consistent to the previous MGs, Cobras flocked the venue in large groups, lining up in as early as lunch time, brimming with anticipation for an evening that annually promises a memorable night of music, lights, and entertainment.
Soon as the sun has set, the ballpark stage came alive with a series of captivating performances that ensured the attendees a festive break from academics.
Local bands Oral Six, Lawod, Hiraya, and the Percussion Band, alongside campus divas Belle, Marianne, and Portia, proved the university’s distinction in being a vocal powerhouse with their performances.
The Maroon Dance Crew also hopped in and added to the excitement with their igniting production number, which was immediately followed by the university organizations’ yearly dance showdown.
DJs Kaye and Kate Jagdon modulated crowd hype with their pulsating beats and pop mixes, alongside a sneak peak of this year’s Binibini at Ginoong Siglakas candidates.
The anticipation soared heights as the highlight of the event, rising OPM band Cup of Joe, serenaded the crowd with their hits aplenty. This was dramatically received by the audience, which was composed of a portion of uncontested “Joe-wahs,” the band’s fandom.
This appearance turned out historic, being the first time a national band performed at MG.
Bursting elemental colors painted the clear night sky as a spectacular fireworks display was launched at the grand finale. Contrary to the recent MGs, moreover, there was no interfering rain shower this year.
As the event came to a close, Mundo Granate 2024 left students with a sense of exhilaration by providing a much-needed break, consequently offering a balance between academic and university life.
Student Development Officer Mariah Cheya Alliana Derecho emphasized this in an interview, stating, “In that sense, nga naghatag mi ug breather sa students, naghatag mig avenue for them to enjoy kay in two weeks, P2 na sad. Mura’g at least we’re giving a moment na ma-remember sa lifetime sa students nga ‘ah sa Southwe naka-experience ko ana.’”
Cobras also praised the event for its positive impact on their university experience.
Claire, a STEM Health student shared, “As for me, I think Mundo Granate is really an experience that students at Southwestern should really experience at least once in their stay at the school ‘cause like nice siya. You can bond with other students like meeting new people, just enjoying the festivities itself.”
The event also served as a platform for SWU PHINMA to highlight its vision for the school’s future.
Marketing Director Wilfe Besin asserted, “Also, this is an opportunity for the administration to introduce the new directions of the school. So what I’ve mentioned to you, we are trying to position the school as an accessible university not just in terms of price since we offer scholarships but also in terms of location. That’s why we are aggressive with our expansion programs. So that’s what we wanna highlight this year.”
“I think also the main objective is to really introduce our brand direction for the year,” he added.
While budgeting was a challenge, collaboration with sponsors, organizers, and concessionaires helped achieve the event’s goals.
Looking ahead, the university’s events committee already explores the possibility of inviting a famous artist or creating bigger productions for future events, believing these enhancements will attract even larger crowds and elevate the overall experience of what so remains as the queen welcoming event of the South.
