MARAHUYO: Ateneo Open House 2026 enchants thousands with the Ateneo experience

By Jake Adam M. Badong

Naga City, Philippines --- The Ateneo de Naga University campus came alive with wonder, music, and youthful energy as it welcomed thousands of students, educators, and visitors during MARAHUYO: Ateneo Open House 2026, held from January 28 to 30, 2026. Organized by the Ateneo Student Ambassadors (ASA), the three-day event carried the theme “Enchanted by the Ateneo Experience” that offered participants an immersive glimpse into Atenean life, culture, and academic excellence.

The first day opened with campus tours that guided visitors through the university’s facilities, followed by the College Booth Exhibit, which ran from January 28 to 29. In collaboration with various co-curricular organizations and university offices, the exhibit showcased the six colleges of Ateneo de Naga University: the College of Business and Accountancy, College of Computer Studies, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Science, Engineering, and Architecture, College of Education, and the College of Nursing. Each booth highlighted academic programs, student initiatives, and opportunities that define the Ateneo learning experience.

Excitement peaked in the afternoon with a lively gimmick parade led by the Ateneo de Naga University Band and the Ateneo Golden Cavalry Band, featuring the university’s diverse academic programs. The celebration continued at the University Gymnasium with the opening program which featured dynamic performances by Dulaang Agabaab, the University Choir, the Ateneo Dance Club, soloist Charmelle Badiola, and the BUCAL Cheerdance Competition Season 2 Grand Champion, the Ateneo Golden Cavalry. The event drew enthusiastic participation from both Ateneans and non-Ateneans alike.

On the second day, Ateneo de Naga University hosted the DepEd Naga City Division Career Exposition, welcoming approximately 3,500 senior high school students from various schools across Naga City. The whole-day exposition provided career talks, academic orientations, and engaging performances, offering students valuable insights into future academic and professional pathways.

The final day culminated in a high-energy Marahuyo Battle of the Bands and Concert Night. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., the Battle of the Bands featured finalist groups Going Concern, Live at Nine, KrisP, XY Chromosomes, and Linyang Siyete, with Linyang Siyete emerging as the grand champion. The night transitioned into a concert featuring performances by local artists MAHN, Karl Ramirez at ang Kilyab, Ched Valencia, social media personality Kween Yasmin, and rising Gen Z musician Eliza Maturan, closing the event on a celebratory note.

MARAHUYO: Ateneo Open House 2026 is a proof and testament to Ateneo de Naga University’s commitment to forming competent, compassionate, and culturally engaged individuals that leave visitors truly enchanted by the Ateneo experience.