Gathering Light, Inspiring Legacy: Honoring 25 Years of Batch 1999

Twenty-five years ago, a remarkable group of young men walked the hallowed halls of UP Diliman and Los Baños, shaping and being shaped by the values of Upsilon Sigma Phi. Now, after two and a half decades, Batch 1999 proudly invites all fellows to join them in a celebration of "Service and Excellence" on November 23, 2024, at 6:30 PM, Atencio-Libunao Hall, UP Diliman. This milestone marks not just an anniversary but a legacy of camaraderie, achievements, and unwavering dedication to the principles of Upsilon.

A Nostalgic Walk Down Memory Lane

Reflecting on the late 1990s, Batch 1999 recalls a time when life in UP was an exciting blend of tradition and transformation. These were the days of Nokia 5110s, dial-up internet, and coffee-fueled nights at the Main Library. Student activism was vibrant, academic excellence was expected, and the sense of community was alive. But what truly set this batch apart was their dedication to reviving old traditions and creating new ones.

With a strong repertoire of diverse talents, Batch 1999 inspired the resurrection of the much-loved Cavalcades, bringing it back to the UP scene with an unforgettable production: Padre Faura Sin Verguenza. An all-original musical written by fellow Victor Avecilla, Batch 1979, directed by fellow Lawrence Espinosa, Batch 1991, and performed by Upsilonians and Sigma Deltans, it was a powerful tribute to the spirit of creative freedom and collaboration. Padre Faura Sin Verguenza wasn’t just a performance; it was a statement—a testament to the bold, fearless energy of Batch 1999. With every lyric and line, they infused UP with renewed artistic vigor, showcasing their talents and redefining what it meant to celebrate Upsilon’s legacy. Credit also goes to the many other fellows who contributed immensely to this massive endeavor.

Batch 1999 stood out as one of the largest and most diverse groups to join the fraternity, united by shared values and a commitment to personal and professional growth. Within this batch, there were future lawyers, doctors, engineers, public servants, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry pioneers, each contributing uniquely to the fraternity's storied legacy. The years that followed their initiation were filled with camaraderie, memorable nights at the tambayan, and an unbreakable bond that only grew stronger with time.

The Legacy of Batch 1999: Excellence Across Every Field

Fast forward to today, and Batch 1999 stands as one of the most accomplished and respected groups in Upsilon’s contemporary history. This is no ordinary batch reunion; it's a gathering of trailblazers. Among their ranks are a Court of Appeals Justice, Undersecretaries, government executives, C-Suite leaders, esteemed doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, and renowned professionals across industries, here and abroad. They have each taken the principles of service, integrity, and leadership imparted by Upsilon Sigma Phi and applied them in every sphere of influence they inhabit.

These accomplishments are a reflection of Upsilon’s proud motto of gathering light to scatter, as they have brought together the wisdom and strength gained from the fraternity and shared it with the world in ways that benefit society at large. Each of these men exemplifies Upsilon’s values in their daily lives, reinforcing the fraternity’s impact on society and continuing a proud tradition of leadership and service. From the courtroom to the boardroom, from public service to private enterprise, Batch 1999’s influence is felt across the nation and beyond.

A Year-Long Celebration of Service and Brotherhood

This culminating event caps off an exceptional year filled with activities that embody Batch 1999’s commitment to “Service and Excellence.” Earlier this year, they hosted a golf tournament and a series of AUDAX events, which brought together fellows and friends in the spirit of camaraderie and competition.

In partnership with Batch 1999 of Sigma Delta Phi, they also established a scholarship fund to support deserving students at UP, ensuring that future generations can benefit from the same transformative education they received. This fund reflects their dedication to giving back to the UP community in meaningful and impactful ways.

Perhaps the most ambitious initiative of all was the donation of refrigerated drinking fountains to multiple UP campuses, including UP PGH, UP Manila College of Arts and Sciences, and the Bahay ng Alumni in Diliman, among other locations. The goal is to donate a total of 99 drinking fountains to areas in dire need of clean, safe drinking water. This groundbreaking project is not just about providing infrastructure; it’s about addressing a fundamental need and ensuring the well-being of students, faculty, and visitors across the university. These fountains stand as a lasting testament to Batch 1999’s spirit of service and their deep respect for the institution that has given them so much.

An Evening to Remember: A Celebration of Brotherhood and Success

On November 23, Atencio-Libunao Hall will be transformed into a venue worthy of the legacy of Upsilon Sigma Phi. Fellows can expect an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the vibrant energy that only an Upsilon gathering can bring. In true Upsilon style, the event promises to be both heartwarming and grand, with no detail spared to ensure that every fellow, from the most recent graduate to the most distinguished alumni, feels part of the legacy.

Attendees can look forward to a night of camaraderie, fine spirits, and stories that will transport them back to their days at UP. In homage to Batch 1999’s theme of "Service and Excellence," the celebration will also pay tribute to the batch’s contributions, not only within the fraternity but also to the larger UP community.

And for this special evening, Batch 1999 has a few treats in store: lechon, beer, and whiskey will be served in honor of Upsilon’s legendary spirit of fellowship. As the famous line goes, "99 cases of beer and 99 bottles of whiskey for the all of us!" To add to the fun, a live band will bring the crowd back to the early 2000s with the hits that defined their youth.

A Toast to Brotherhood and the Future

This reunion is an invitation to celebrate not just the accomplishments of Batch 1999, but the enduring brotherhood that defines Upsilon Sigma Phi. It is a chance for each fellow to reconnect, reflect, and revel in the strength of bonds that have withstood the test of time. As the glasses are raised, there will be toasts to unforgettable moments, to the shared dreams of young men who set out to make a difference, and to the remarkable achievements that each member of Batch 1999 has brought to life.

Beyond the festivities, this celebration is a powerful reminder of the values that unite us all. The spirit of Upsilon lives in each of us, from our first days in the fraternity to every milestone we achieve. Batch 1999’s legacy serves as a beacon for future generations of Upsilonians, demonstrating that brotherhood and service are lifelong commitments.

Don’t Miss This Milestone Event

To all fellows, past and present, we invite you to join us for this milestone celebration. Let’s honor Batch 1999, their legacy of service, and the brotherhood that connects us all. Together, let’s create memories that will last a lifetime and inspire future generations of Upsilon Sigma Phi.

So mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate 25 years of service, excellence, and friendship on November 23, 2024. This is one reunion you won’t want to miss—a night that promises to be as unforgettable as the years we spent together. Join us as we toast to the past, the present, and the future of Upsilon Sigma Phi.

by Mori Rodriguez '99