De La Salle University (DLSU) celebrated love in all its forms and languages from Feb. 9 to 13 as the University Student Government (USG) hosted “Meraki: A Love Affair.” The five-day Valentine’s event brought together workshops, bustling bazaars, and live performances across the Cory Aquino Democratic Space (CADS) and various venues, culminating in Meraki Nights: Harana Music Fest, all wrapped up in La Salle’s tenacity to prevent the tuition fee increase.
Inspired by the Greek word “meraki,” meaning to do something with soul, creativity, and love, the event was designed to infuse Valentine’s week with heartfelt activities that go beyond the usual chocolates and roses. USG crafted a five day program that encouraged Lasallians to pour their passion into art, connect with their peers, and celebrate the many forms love can take on a university campus.
Love grows
Meraki kicked off with a diverse lineup of activities designed to help students channel their inner feelings into tangible creations. Heartfelt Hues, a creative painting workshop, which invited Lasallians to express their emotions on canvas, while the Flower Arrangement Workshop taught students the delicate art of bundling blooms into meaningful gifts.
Meanwhile, for those who were seeking memories to capture, a Valentine’s-themed photo studio provided the perfect backdrop for snapshots with friends and loved ones. The Creative corner on the other hand offered spaces for personalized gift making that enabled students to craft heartfelt presents from scratch. Lastly, for the people too shy to confess in person, the Love-Gram service dispatched anonymous messages and small gifts across campus, turning secret crushes into sweet surprises.
The CADS transformed into a bustling Valentine’s marketplace as concessionaires set up stalls offering everything from chocolates and flowers to handmade crafts and horchatas. The vibrant vendor scene gave students a place to see, shop, and soak in the festive atmosphere between classes.
Melodies that unite
The music fest kicked off with opening remarks from Ms. Blu Fajardo, the president of the DLSU Parents of University Students Organization (PUSO). Ms. Fajardo gave appreciation to the people who worked hard to make the event happen, and also announced that there would be no tuition fee increase for the next A.Y., “[...] Hindi lang ito [Meraki] tungkol sa paggawa ng magaganda o masasayang bagay tulad ng panahon na ito. Ito rin ay tungkol sa pagharap sa mahihirap na usapin ng malasakit, respeto at bukas na pakikinig.”
Performing first, A Journey Awaits (AJA) Animo, a special interest organization that promotes the wonders of Filipino and Korean culture, showcased dashing dance moves and melodic vocals accompanied by DJ Prince and followed by DJ Ports, their mixes turned the concert into a lively party. Between performances, the hosts facilitated love-related games such as guessing if the prompt shown on the screen is a red or green flag and blind dating in real life, where two individuals were blindfolded on stage, and got to know one another.
The special guests that night were Fitterkarma, Jason Dhakal, and Lola Amour—artists who colored the stage in their own unique ways, encapsulating the theme of love in their performances.
“Meraki Nights: Harana Music Fest” was not only an ode to love but a meaningful event that reminded the Lasallian community of what they fought for—their love and right to education.
