CASS ICONicles of Narnia: The Arachnae, The Wardrobe, and The Seven Isles

by Jazel Ann Maghilum 

One step into the wardrobe, and there's no turning back! 

The Arachnids are out of the closet, parading their well-worn, glamorous wardrobes—fit for a dance at Cair Paravel. On the afternoon of January 27, 2025, the MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology’s gymnasium transformed into the magical land of Narnia as CASS Days 2025 opened with a showdown for this year’s CASS ICON crown. Inspired by the theme "Arachnae and the Seven Isles," the event united the societies in an enchanting celebration of creativity, culture, and camaraderie.

As damangs flooded to witness the show of their lives, the royals showcased what their societies had to offer. From the seven isles to the kingdom of CASS, this was the moment everyone had been waiting for. So, buckle up, Arachnids, and wield the spirit as we shout, "Further up and further in!" The time has come for us to begin.

This year's ICONicles was like no other. Contestants paired their passionate advocacies with eye-catching styles uniquely ingrained in their societies.

Opening the doors to the apple's core, hearts beat in resonance as the first contender, Morgan Buhia, a second-year BA History student from the Isle of Historia, graced the stage with poise and grace. She wore a golden dress with intricate blue see-through fabric that added an air of nobility, paired with her golden crown. She adhered to the advocacy of the importance of history, ending her speech with the resilient saying, "We are not just studying history. We are History!" She shared that her outfit represents a blend of timelessness and imagination, reflecting her society's journey of piecing together fragments of the past to inspire the future.

From the Isle of Neoleides, Shane Gabriel Bantilan, a second-year BA Filipino student, captivated the audience with her roaring mask of Aslan and a flowing golden dress hand-painted by her constituents. What began as a simple dress transformed into a riveting armor, embodying the spirit of a warrior. She carried the advocacy of hope and truth, explaining that her outfit was a tribute to preserving history, culture, and tradition, showcasing the "Pakikisama" culture through the collaborative efforts of her fellow students. For her second outfit, inspired by the Narnia theme, she proudly declared, "I showed them what a real warrior is."

Descending from the heavens, Krizylle Louise Glitendez, a first-year BA Political Science student from the Isle of Logos, graced the stage with wide wings and a powerful advocacy against extrajudicial killings. Her commanding presence on the runway, paired with a sword, a scale, and a red blindfold, embodied the Lady of Justice. However, she presented more than just a symbol—she became a figure of action and resilience, calling for righteousness against human rights atrocities. She shared that her outfit reimagined Lady Justice, transforming vulnerability into strength, and delivering a powerful message for justice and humanity.

White mists cover the ground as the white queen, Mickey Reyes, a first-year BA Philosophy student from the Isle of Sophia, stunned the crowd with her winterlike presence. As she stormed through, she revealed a web-like dress, frozen in place, symbolizing her advocacy for education, philosophy, and reading. Her outfit, she explained, not only embodies philosophy but also represents it as the mother of all disciplines. The crown, capturing the colors of the other societies, and her portrayal as the Ice Queen perfectly complemented the Narnia theme for this year. 

Gaze upon the ocean of the seven isles as Hosea Praise Belan, a second-year BA Psychology student from the Isle of Psyche, captivates with her blue-and-white gown, shining under the spotlight. The hand-sewn details of her gown beautifully symbolize her advocacy, breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the importance of seeking help. Drawing inspiration from the iceberg model, a popular representation of psychology, her outfit also featured a trident, symbolizing her society, and emphasized the message of overcoming shame related to mental health issues.

Arriving with a mystical presence, Jul Ebio, a second-year BA English Language Studies student from the Isle of Glossa, dazzles in a sunlike crown and richly colored attire. Her gown, shimmering like stars, reflects her advocacy for the power of language to heal and unite. Inspired by the tale of a warrior who, initially unable to speak due to a marble tongue, gains the ability to communicate through magic, her outfit symbolizes the transformative power of language. The design features motifs like fountain pens, the society's logo, and masks that represent the infinity of language. 

Opening the door to the last, Jovan Maxwell, a third-year BA Sociology student from the Isle of Koinos, enters as a mythical creature inspired by Narnia. Adorned in horns and a flowing robe over a satin dress, she holds a staff to symbolize her advocacy for 'Agham para sa Lipunan,' addressing climate change and the need to invest in the human side of every issue. Her rallying cry, “Fund the HUMSS!!” echoes her passion. Regarding her outfit, she explains that the fusion of Aslan, the lion, and Mr. Tumnus, the goat, represents the wisdom and untamed strength necessary for change, aligning with her advocacy. As she says, ”No solution is complete without the human perspective, and we, as sociologists, contribute to shaping a sustainable future.”

The stage radiated warmth, adorned with vibrant flora and mythical creatures, creating a Narnia-inspired atmosphere. Regal wisterias and overgrown marble pillars surrounded us, bathed in the soft glow of shimmering lights, like fireflies caught in the spotlight.

In the land of Narnia, where wit and art collide and stars walk the Earth, anything is possible. And so, it was. The societies united in a powerful chorus, their chants blending in ethereal harmony, with no barriers standing in their way—only pure camaraderie, the hallmark of a true Arachnid. As the event neared its conclusion, each student from the different isles cast their spell, beating drums, chanting energetically, and raising banners, lighting up the stage with unwavering love and support.

Though the competition was fierce and each isle rooted for its champion, CASS Days reminded us that beyond rivalry lies a magical space where creativity and community thrive. In these moments, our voices unite, and we embody the true spirit of CASS Days, where even the simplest wardrobe can spark extraordinary adventures.