Benefit concert celebrates UP Cebu’s centennial year

Hundreds of alumni from the University of the Philippines Cebu (UPC) gathered at Unang Siglo: Halad Sa Katawhan, a benefit concert dinner in celebration of their alma mater’s 100th year.

The centennial ball was held last Friday, April 27 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel in Lahug.

Established in 1918, the UPC is now the eighth constituent university of the University of the Philippines (UP) system.

Organized by the University of the Philippines Alumni Association (UPAA) Cebu Chapter, alumni from the different generations, educators and guests shared light moments and reminisced about the university’s glorious past and present.

Some of the notable attendees were Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III, Vice Governor Agnes Magpale and Mandaue City Vice Mayor Carlo Fortuna.

In her opening speech, University Chancellor Atty. Liza Corro described the centennial ball as a night where the past and present collide.

Corro expressed that the university’s resilience made it reach the centennial year despite the challenges it has faced throughout the years.

The chancellor urged the alumni to help in their aspiration in building better days for the university.

She revealed that P700 million worth of projects are allocated for the university, which are targeted to be completed two years from now.

Currently, the UPC has two campuses, the main campus along Gorordo Avenue, Lahug, Cebu City, and another satellite campus located at the Cebu South Road Properties.

“We do not only look back, but pursue opportunities for the future,” the chancellor said.

Homegrown chorale group UP Cebu Serenata set the mood by serenading the audience with their rendition of popular hits of every decade, as well as Filipino and Visayan songs.

Proceeds of the centennial ball will be used to fund the development projects of the UPAA Cebu Chapter, including a donation to the Y for I.T. Foundation.

“With I.T. in this digital age, we want to support that particular initiative,” Atty. Ria Espina, UPAA Cebu Chapter President, said.

Espina shared that the alumni association will focus in supporting sustainable development projects. They are also planning to donate books to several mountain barangays in Cebu.

A series of activities were also held on May 3, including the unveiling of the new UP oblation statue and presidential markers, and the Alumni Crazy Cookout on May 3.

The UPAA Cebu Chapter is also accepting nominations for the annual Tatak UP Awards, which recognizes UP Cebu alumni who excel in their respective fields.

Deadline of submission of nominees will be on or before October 29, 2018.