𝐇𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐚 ‘𝟐𝟔 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟏 𝐤𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐨𝐟𝐟; 𝐌𝐋𝐒𝐏𝐇 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐬 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭

Society of United Laboratory Scientists (SoULS) officially commenced the first day of Hinalina 2026: Blooming Through Trials of Fate on Feb. 4 at San Pedro College (SPC) to strengthen a sense of community among Medical Laboratory Science and Public Health (MLSPH) students.

A morning Mass preceded the opening program, followed by preliminaries and opening remarks from the School of Medical Laboratory Science and Public Health (SMLSPH) Associate Dean Marx Catalan.

“The earthquake may have shaken us, may have terrified us, but it wasn’t strong enough to shatter the foundations of the SoULS organization and, of course, the medical technology profession,” Catalan said, referring to the event originally scheduled for October but postponed to unprecedented earthquakes.

Four competitive teams, called Banwas, and inspired by Philippine mythological figures, were introduced: nature’s guardian Salvia Manggaway, water guardian Arachis Anituan, healer-hunter Vicia Babaylan, and warrior-healer Iberis Mumbaki.

Showcasing student creativity early in the program, the winning entry of the Theme Song Writing competition by Banwa Iberis Mumbaki, titled “Sinagtala,” was announced and performed live.

Continuing the opening rites, the torch-lighting ceremony featured the clusters’ banner entries, followed by the oath of sportsmanship led by Sports Coordinator Neil Alcantara.

While sports matches and literary contests simultaneously unfolded in separate venues, heightened energy filled the SPC Gymnasium with the presentation of each cluster’s Mother Legion and entries for the Liveliest Delegation competition, followed by ball games held during the break.

Transitioning from intercluster chants to vocal artistry to open the afternoon session, the Vocal Solo competition featured performances such as Banwa Salvia Manggaway’s rendition of “Nosi Balasi,” Banwa Arachis Anituan’s “Basang-Basa sa Ulan,” Banwa Vicia Babaylan’s “Pusong Ligaw,” and Banwa Iberis Mumbaki’s “Upuan.”

Shifting from mellow melodies to powerhouse vocals, MedTech Superstar contestants then took center stage, with Banwa Salvia Manggaway performing “Amakabogera,” followed by a 1:43 medley by Banwa Arachis Anituan, and a Sarah Geronimo medley by Banwa Iberis Mumbaki.

Replacing vocal showcases with synchronized movement, the LabSayaw modern dance competition highlighted rhythm, creativity, and teamwork among participants.

Amplifying sound and spectacle, clusters engaged in the Battle of the Bands, presenting distinct medley arrangements.

“My favorite part of the event was the futsal competition, and what I’m most excited about tomorrow is the Ambassador and Ambassadress competition,” Almea Grace Fernandez said, a freshman from Banwa Arachis Anituan.

Capping off the day’s competitions, winners were recognized as follows: Banwa Arachis Anituan for Banner Making, LabSayaw and Battle of the Bands; and Banwa Iberis Mumbaki for Vocal Solo, Liveliest Delegation, and MedTech Superstar.

Concluding the first day of Hinalina 2026, anticipation builds for a second day expected to deliver intensified competition and new highlights for the SMLSPH community.

SPC representatives to the 44th Philippine Association of Medical Technologists, Inc. – Philippine Association of Schools of Medical Technology and Public Health, Inc. (PAMET–PASMETH) Quiz Show also delivered speeches on their experience during last year’s national competition earlier that day.

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