In this special Lenten episode of Friar’s Desk, legal professionals Atty. Irene D. Valones, DCL and Atty. Gay Christine L. Cortes reflect deeply on the themes of conversion and healing during the sacred season of Lent. More than just legal minds, they offer heartfelt insights on personal transformation, spiritual renewal, and the intersection of faith and vocation. With thoughtful reflections drawn from their lived experience, this conversation invites listeners to enter more fully into Lent—a time for penance, grace, and preparation for Easter—guided by stories of mercy, healing, and hope.

In this special episode of Friar’s Desk, we welcome Bishop Napoleon Balili Sipalay, Jr., O.P., recently appointed as the Fourth Bishop of the Diocese of Alaminos. A Dominican priest deeply rooted in service, he shares his inspiring vocation story—from his early formation to his time as Vice Rector of the UST Central Seminary, and now, to the threshold of the episcopacy. With humility and depth, Bishop-elect Sipalay reflects on the grace and responsibility of this new mission, his hopes for the diocese, and his vision of leading with compassion, unity, and unwavering faith.

In this inspiring episode of Friar’s Desk, we sit down with Maria Lourdes L. Santiago-Antonio, LPT, MA (Director of the Center for Campus Ministry) and Asst. Prof. Paul A. Castillo, MA (Creative Writing mentor and educator) to reflect on the role of faith-filled leadership in academic and pastoral life. The conversation explores how these servant-leaders foster positive, dynamic environments—guiding students and colleagues alike with compassion, vision, and purpose. From spiritual formation to creative expression, they share how leadership grounded in faith and innovation can shape communities and uplift hearts in the ever-changing world of education.

In celebration of World Patient Safety Day, this special episode of Friar’s Desk highlights the vital commitment of healthcare professionals in ensuring safe and quality care. Joining the conversation are Dr. Lara Mae A. Angeles (Clinical Pathology), Ms. Tyona Marie F. Gesite, MAN, RN (Chief of Nursing Services), and Prof. Consuelo G. Suarez, MD, PhD, FPARM (Chair, Clinical Practice Guideline Committee, Philippine Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine). Together, they explore how patient safety is not just a medical standard, but a shared moral responsibility grounded in competence, compassion, and community collaboration. Anchored in faith and guided by science, this episode affirms the sacred duty to protect and heal.

In this insightful episode of Friar’s Desk, we shine a light on the often unsung heroes of education and culture—our librarians. Joining us are Kaori B. Fuchigami, RL (Assistant Head, General Reference and Information Section), Sr. Lib. Raquel B. Lontoc, RL, MLIS (Head, General Reference and Information Section), and Maria Cecilia D. Lobo (Chief Librarian of UST and elected member of the Philippine Librarians Association, Inc. – NCR). Together, they discuss the vital role of libraries in preserving knowledge, promoting research, nurturing intellectual growth, and fostering faith and heritage. This episode is a tribute to those who guard the gateways of learning and help shape the minds—and souls—of generations.

In this enriching episode of Friar’s Desk, we explore the many dimensions of aging with two distinguished guests: Asst. Prof. Cecille Ann C. Pilapil from the UST College of Science Department of Psychology and Dr. Inocencio P. Alejandro, an expert in Geriatric Medicine and Rheumatology from the UST Hospital. Together, they delve into the psychological, emotional, and physical aspects of growing older—discussing cognitive changes, mental health, common medical concerns, and the beauty of embracing each life stage. With wisdom from both science and experience, this conversation offers a compassionate and insightful look at how we can all age healthily, mindfully, and meaningfully.

In this inspiring episode of Friar’s Desk, we sit down with three remarkable senior students—Charles Mina (Accountancy), Kim Emerenciana (Communication), and Mikhael Mandap (Secondary Education)—as they reflect on their academic journeys. From late-night study sessions to moments of personal growth and spiritual discovery, these Thomasians share the challenges, triumphs, and turning points that shaped their college life. As graduation approaches, their stories offer a message of hope, perseverance, and purpose to fellow students preparing to take their next step beyond the university walls.

In this heartfelt episode of Friar’s Desk, we are joined by mental health professionals from the University of Santo Tomas—Dr. Ma. Claudette A. Agnes (Assistant Dean, College of Science), Ms. Carmen S. Quesada, MA, RGC, RPm, Prof. Ryan Francis O. Cayubit, PhD, RPsy, RPm, and Asst. Prof. Karen Katrina Trinidad, PhD—to explore the vital link between mental wellness and spiritual life. Through open and compassionate dialogue, they discuss the realities of anxiety, stress, and emotional struggles while offering practical tools for coping, healing, and self-care. This episode also reflects on how the Church and faith communities can offer support, understanding, and hope for those navigating mental health challenges.

In this vibrant episode of Friar’s Desk, we delve into the phenomenon that is BTS, the South Korean boy band that has inspired a global following through music, movement, and message. Joined by Ellis Mika C. Triño, MSc, Asst. Prof. Ma. Ailil B. Alvarez, MA, Bridget Arrogancia, and Assoc. Prof. Anna Marie H. Bautista, MCHS, LPT, we explore how BTS goes beyond entertainment—touching on themes of self-love, mental health, cultural pride, and hope. Through thoughtful dialogue, the episode reflects on how BTS’s art can spark deeper conversations about faith, identity, and global connection, especially among today’s youth.

In this thought-provoking episode of Friar’s Desk, we are joined by religion educators and scholars from the University of Santo Tomas: Andrew Joseph S. Chanco, MRS, Prof. Marites Rano-Redoña, PhD, Prof. Chito M. Sawit, PhD, and Asst. Prof. Claudita O. Yaranon. Together, they explore the transformative role of religion classes in faith-based education. More than academic subjects, these classes nurture spiritual awareness, moral integrity, ethical reasoning, and cultural sensitivity, forming students not only as thinkers but as compassionate, values-driven individuals. A timely conversation on how religious education remains vital in today’s educational landscape.