~December~
The Joy and Peace of Christmas
Christmas Cantata 2024 – “The joy and peace that Christ brings”
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” – Luke 2:10-11
     On December 6, 2024, Union School International gathered as one joyful community to celebrate the birth of Christ through its annual Christmas Cantata, held from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. This year’s theme, “The joy and peace that Christ brings,” was beautifully reflected in each song, message, and performance.
     The event began with Thanksgiving Worship led by the Uni Worship Team, lifting the hearts of everyone in praise. Pastor Julius Solis then shared a meaningful Christmas message, reminding students and staff of the true reason for the season—Jesus Christ, our Savior and source of joy.
Ha, Yirang gave the opening remarks, setting a warm and welcoming tone for the program. A series of heartfelt presentations followed, showcasing the creativity and spirit of each grade level.

• Grade 9 presented a musical play of the Nativity, retelling the birth of Jesus with emotion and reverence.
• Grades 1 & 3 (Star) sang Joy to the World and Holy Night, their voices full of innocence and joy.
• Grades 4, 5, & 6 (Angel) offered a powerful medley: Noel, Hallelujah, and Angels We Have Heard on High, lifting hearts in worship.
• Grade 7 (Dove) brought cheer with Jingle Bells, spreading smiles and laughter.
• Grade 8 (Wreath) energized the room with It’s Christmas by Planetshakers.
• Grade 10 (Candle) gave a moving rendition of Noel, reflecting the light of Christ.
• Grade 11 (Bells) impressed with the dramatic and joyful Carol of the Bells.
• Grade 12 (Gift) closed the student performances with The Gift Goes On by Sandi Patti, reminding everyone that the spirit of giving comes from the greatest gift of all—Jesus.

    Even teachers and staff joined the celebration, offering their own presentation and showing that the joy of Christmas knows no age. Kim, Eunji gave the closing remarks and prayer, followed by the singing of the school hymn, led by Yechan Kim and Jaehyun Kim, bringing the event to a heartfelt close. The program was gracefully hosted by Dherlene Kaye Carosen and Park, Jaemin, who guided the audience through each part of the celebration with poise and warmth.
       The Christmas Cantata 2024 was a special time of worship, joy, and unity—a reminder that the peace and joy Christ brings continues to shine in every heart that believes.

​(May 31, 2024, Baguio City) Union School International celebrated its latest cohort of graduates and completers under the theme "Molded through a Resilient Foundation," drawing from the wisdom of Galatians 6:9: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
       The event began with a powerful session of praise and worship led by the “Uni Worship Team”, setting a reverent and uplifting tone for the ceremony. Following the worship session, Pastor Julius Solis delivered an inspirational message that deeply resonated with the graduates and attendees alike. He said that in life, you will face many challenges, but remember that you are molded through a resilient foundation.
      The event, held at Interior C, Steve Lane, Balacbac, Baguio City, honored the perseverance and hard work of students who have navigated unprecedented challenges over recent years. The theme resonated deeply as it encapsulated the journey of overcoming obstacles and emerging stronger, a sentiment echoed by the keynote speaker, Prof. Johna G. Belardo who highlighted the importance of resilience and steadfastness in achieving one's goals.
      "Today, we celebrate not just academic achievements but the spirit of perseverance that each of you embodies," Ma’am Jhona addressed the graduates. "In the face of adversity, you have shown that a resilient foundation can carry you through the toughest times. Remember the words from Galatians 6:9, and let them guide you as you move forward in life."
      The ceremony also featured a heartfelt speech from Krystal Cheang (valedictorian), who shared personal anecdotes of overcoming difficulties. The ceremony concluded with the traditional turning of the tassels and a rousing rendition of the completers with their song “Don’t Worry” and the graduates with their song “Try Everything” that emphasized the importance of community and support systems in building resilience.
       Adding a touch of elegance and emotion to the ceremony, the USI Chamber Orchestra delivered a moving performance, featuring the song “Way Maker” which captivated the audience, symbolizing the harmony and unity of the graduating class.
      As the graduates embark on their next chapters, the foundation of resilience and determination instilled in them during their time at USI will undoubtedly continue to support and guide them. The message of Galatians 6:9 serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance in doing good will ultimately lead to a fruitful harvest, a principle that these graduates will carry with them into their future endeavors.

 
​​Thanksgiving Day - October 27, 2023
The school community came together to celebrate Thanksgiving Day with a heartwarming event that included the parade of nations, festive meal from different countries that were hosted by the high school students, performances by elementary students, and other gratitude activities.
Click Video below:
 
Christmas Cantata – December 7, 2023
December saw the annual Christmas Cantata, where students and faculty/staffs showcased their musical talents in a beautiful concert filled with holiday spirit and joy.
Click Video below:
 
Sports Day - February 23, 2024
In February, the school held its exciting Sports Day, featuring a variety of athletic competitions such as volleyball, dodgeball, obstacle races, basketball, and tug-of-war. These events promoted teamwork, sportsmanship, and school spirit. The Red Lions emerged as the overall champion.
Click Video below:
 
Science Fair - May 13, 2024
The school year culminated in May with the Science Fair’s theme “Global Science for Global Well-being”, where students presented their innovative projects and experiments, highlighting their creativity and scientific inquiry skills. The winners for “Best Project” and “Scientist of the Year” are as follows:
Elementary Level:
            Sophia Lauren L. Bayon (G4) “Shoe Polish”
            Nyah Althea F. Frias (G3) “Banna Peel Biomass Briguettes”
Junior High School:
            Blaire Briones (G8) “Earthquake Alert Machine”
            Jaehyun Kim (G9) “DIY Sea Garbage Bin”
Senior High School:
            Yuan Madriaga (G12) “ Banana Bark Paper”
            Yujung Shin (G12) “Magnetic Sea Trashes Collector”

​ ​March 1, 2024, Baguio City, Philippines – Union School International (USI) commemorated its 20th Foundation Day with a spirit of gratitude and reflection. The theme for this milestone celebration was “Honoring God’s Faithfulness,” a reminder of the unwavering faithfulness of God, who stands as the ultimate example of reliability. Just as a house built on a strong foundation withstands storms, USI’s journey over the past two decades has been anchored in God’s steadfastness.
      The celebration commenced with praise and worship led by the UNI Worship team, where faculty, staff, students, and alumni gathered to express their gratitude. Pastor Julius Solis emphasized the importance of acknowledging God’s faithfulness in every step of the school’s growth, a journey marked by challenges, victories, and moments of grace.
      A highlight of the event was the keynote address by the guest speaker, Atty. Lean Rodrigues, an esteemed alumnus from the batch of 2012, shared inspiring stories from their time at USI and offered valuable insights into the importance of perseverance and lifelong learning. 
​    The day’s events also included a video presentation and greetings from the alumni of Batch 2008-2023.Faculty and staff showcased their endearing talents and dedication through a cultural presentation. The school also recognized the teachers' and staff’s years of service, highlighting their commitment and contributions to USI's mission.
    Students from various grade levels competed in vibrant performances, including traditional dances, choir renditions, and theatrical presentations that highlighted   the school's history and achievements. The school was glad to have the alumni’s Rollylene Alvar-Cando (2011), Danielle Florendo (2014), and Rogelio Emil Lagasca (2018) as judges. These performances were a testament to the diverse talents and cultural heritage within the USI community.
       Providing quality education rooted in Christian values, USI continues to shape good Christian global leaders. As the school reflects on the past two decades, it looks forward to many more years of growth, guided by the principle of “Honoring God’s Faithfulness.”

The six Grade 11 students and Pastor Abraham Cho left the Philippines last May 31st for a three-week Asean Vision Adventure (AVA) that will last until June 21st. As part of the USI extracurricular activities, the students are scheduled to travel to Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Malaysia.
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This AVA is a great opportunity for these students to travel and explore significant and historical places, to be able to interact and conduct Christian fellowship with the local people and to discover and experience their culture. They are also tasked to teach, perform, entertain, play, and most of all, a chance to reach out to the less fortunate children. Indeed, it’s a very fulfilling and productive experience that will surely enlighten and broaden their perspective and that will give them a clearer vision of life.

1. VIETNAM(Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon City Hall, Buu Dien, Saigon Central Post Office)
2. CAMBODIA(Ankor Wat Temple)
3. THAILAND(Sanctuary of Truth Temple in Pattaya,  Wat Pho Temple in Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew)
4. Malaysia(Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Malaysia Tourism Centre and Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur)

​Union School International’s 19th Commissioning and Completion Ceremony was held last Friday, May 26 at the Fourth floor Function Hall of Brentwood Apartelle, Baguio City. There are 2 completers for Grade 10, 4 elementary graduates, and 11 high school graduates.
 
Finally, we get to conduct a face-to-face ceremony for this school year 2022-2023 since we had the last one in 2019. The USI Praise Team led the praise and worship service together with Ptr. Ruth P. Camacho of Yeongsan Ministries who shared an inspirational message for the graduates. Ptr. Abraham Cho (International Director) and Ms. Jennifer M. Bogayong (School Head) awarded the certificates for completion, special awards, medals and diploma, assisted by the class advisers. Dixen Ashlee H. Roque of Grade 6 led the pledge of loyalty and Hajun Lee of Grade 12 delivered his valedictory address. The USI Chamber Orchestra also played the School Hymn live for this event.

​As tribute and expression of gratitude by the completers and graduates for their parents, mentors, and companions, they sang the song entitled “You have made a difference” and as reminder that it’s time for them too to pay it forward.  They also sang the song “The World’s greatest” as their commissioning song.
 
Truly, it’s not yet the end but a new beginning for another journey of our completers and graduates.  Once again, congratulations batch 2023. Soar high! To God be the glory!