The UPLB Security and Safety Office (SSO), in partnership with Upsilon Sigma Phi, proudly unveiled the 5th and 6th installations of the UPLB READY BATINGAW at the Makiling Residence Hall (MAREHA) and the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) - Department of Social Sciences (DSS) on September 7, 2024. BATINGAW, which stands for Babala at Abiso para sa TIyak Na kaliGtasan ng bAWat isa (warning and notice for the safety of everyone), is an innovative early warning device designed to alert the UPLB community in case of emergencies. The project was conceptualized by Fellow Jonathan Maliwat ’24 as part of his Master’s degree in crisis and disaster risk management studies.

With the generous support of the Upsilon Sigma Phi Alumni Association (USPAA) and donations from Fellow Roel Castro ’84, Chairman of USPAA, alongside the assistance of Fellow Jong Belano Jr. ’17, Assistant Professor at CAS-DSS and former Chief of the University Housing Office, this initiative was successfully brought to fruition.

The event was graced by prominent UPLB officials, including Chancellor Jose V. Camacho Jr. and Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs Roberto Cereno. Alumni members of Upsilon Sigma Phi were also present at the turnover ceremony, led by Fellows Ruben Villareal ’57, Reynaldo Villareal ’67, Fernando Sanchez Jr. ’84, Jorge Davide ’84, Baron Alqueza ’84, Octavius Ebron ’84, and Buddy Vargas ’84.

Other attendees included IF Keanne Zapanta 1918, VIF Gio Olivar 2020, GK Joe Amaza 2022, FRec Earl Agasang 2023, FO Juan Lardizabal 2023, FChap Andrew Verano 2024, Cai Monteser 2017, Miguel Gonzalez 2021, Lawrence Pugay 2022, and Francis Lampa 2024.