Due to the series of bombings that hit Mindanao, the School Administration and SAMAHAN Central Board have decided to postpone the much-awaited College Fiesta, which was originally scheduled this August 14-16.

SAMAHAN President Ralph Robin Tongcua confirmed the said news. “There’s an imminent threat. We simply cannot sacrifice the safety of the students,” he said in an interview.

Tongcua added that Ateneo is a hot target for terrorist. “Pag nagpa-parade tayo, pwedeng-pwede nila tayong i-target,” he said.

“We had a conversation with Father Joel [Tabora] at dun kami nag-decide with the rest of the Central Board.”

Yet, according to Tongcua, they have not decided when will be the new schedule for the Fiesta. But he assured that the Fiesta will still be held before the first semester ends.

Regarding the examination schedule, Tongcua mentioned that there is a possibility that it might be affected. The SAMAHAN and the Administration will still deliberate about it.

As of now, the security has been beefed up. Ateneo guards are now using metal detector devices and Tongcua stated that plain-clothed police officers are now roaming within the vicinity of the school.

At the end of the interview, Tongcua delivered a message to the Ateneo Community. “Be vigilant. Be safe. Umuwi kayo ng maaga.”

Although the Fiesta was postponed, there will still be no classes this August 14 – 16.