Just a day before Typhoon Ondoy struck and paralyzed Metro Manila, the community celebrated Appreciation Day with a fun-filled Top ‘Cher program held in the afternoon of Sep. 25 (Fri).

Following the format of a pageant, the contest featured male and female faculty and staff who vied for the Top ‘Cher title in casuall and evening wear segments, the talent portion, and, for the lucky finalists, the dreaded question-and-answer round.

The program began on a rousing note, with the different units cheering for their contestants. Although 26 contestants were presented and performed in the opening dance number, only 15 actually participated. The rest were fillers who injected additional humor to the proceedings.

The main hosts were Clarisse Arcadio and Christian Bumatayo as Xavier Top Model and Legendary Showman, respectively. The panel of judges was composed of beauty experts, Ms. Patty Betita, Ms. Peachy Sacasas Alimurong, and noted photographer and alumnus, Mr. Patrick Uy.

The winners of the various consolation awards were: Best in Casual, Gerard San Gabriel and Jeraldine Ching; Best in Formal Wear, Mark Vigare and Carina Maravilla & Kaye Sevilla; Photogenic, Charles Baga and Patricia Pang. Gerard also took the Friendship award, as well as Mr. Competence, alongside Jeraldine who was Ms. Competence. The Director’s Choice was Ms. Ivy Enaje.

Before the results were announced, Fr. Art Borja and Mrs. Vivian Ocampo came out for the traditional farewell walk of the previous “winners.” The two gave their farewell speeches and brought the house down. In the end, the Top ‘Cher winners were Peter Wang and Jeraldine Ching. Joseph Pena and Patricia Pang came in second, while Gerard San Gabriel and Arzbeth Manlanguit placed third.

It was an afternoon to remember, a sweet memory of fun and laughter before the storms came.