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SeekerSeekerThe Official Newsletter of the Sigma Rho Fraternity

FEBRUARY 2018The

Resident brods, during their successful semestral planning, pose in Kawasan Falls, Alegria, Cebu

Profiles: Abdiel Dan Elijah “Ade” Fajardo ’96 at the Helm of the IBP

A FEW YEARS AGO, I was informed that Ade Fajardo ’96 sought my presence because he wanted to enlist my help for a certain project. I was rather daunted then considering that, being from Batch 1996, he is 14 years my senior; save for a few pakilala’s during fellowships, I had never had a meaningful interaction with him; and for some reason, his presence really is rather

intimidating. Back then, I never expected I’d be looking up to Ade ’96 as one of this generation’s legal luminaries.

Now, more than ever, Ade ’96 is truly a force to reckon with. Being the incumbent National President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), he leads the professional organization of lawyers whose names appear on the rolls of attorneys. At

the helm of this organization, Ade ’96 spearheads various reforms and activities that elevate the standards of the legal profession and improve the delivery of legal services. In his inaugural speech as incoming IBP President, Ade ’96 reminded lawyers of their special place in society: “We must remember that lawyering is a profession defined by service, not by elitism. The current global

By Taking Marella ‘10

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UP SIGMA RHOFRATERNITY

LEADER • SCHOLAR • GENTLEMAN • WARRIOR

THE SEEKER FEB 20182

Message from the Grand Archon

THE 1ST SEMESTER was a melting pot of activities, most of which were excellent, and some presented an opportunity to improve.

We began the academic year with our trademark brand of excellence. Pursuant to our commitment to be a campus force, our brods once again occupy positions in the prestigious student editorial board of the Philippine Law Journal and the Order of the Purple Feather.

Significant advances have also been made in our collaboration project with Klasrum ng Pagasa to build a solar-powered literacy center in Negros Occidental to honor the life of Rafael Salas ‘48, due to the fund-raising success of the Thor: Ragnarok block screening held in October 2017. We are on track to complete the needed funds and complete the construction within this year.

In November, through the diligence

of the heads and their respective deputies, we were able to facilitate an efficient and flawless system of work that catered to the needs of our barristers to assist them in successfully hurdling the 2017 Bar Examinations. Despite these notable achievements, we choose not to rest on our laurels. We will strive to make a bigger impact in the campus and in the community this 2018.

This February we will spearhead an integrated legal and medical mission in the community—one that seeks to share timely and needed legal knowledge while delivering basic medical services. We will also be organizing a block screening for Avengers: Infinity War to raise the necessary funding left to complete our Literacy Center project in partnership with Klasrum ng Pagasa.

As a campus force, we will once again have candidates for positions in both the University Student Council and the Law Student Government. We have also prepared a forum titled Laws and Found, comprised of a seminar and mock examination for this year’s UP LAE, in partnership with different organizations from outside universities such as Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University to introduce the fraternity to aspiring law students. As a final word, I urge us Sigma Rhoans to not merely do what is

asked of us, but to go beyond our call of duty. To accomplish our tasks not because we need to but rather because we want to. As our beloved march goes: onwards, dear brods!

For the Sigma Rho!

Sigma Rho Officials

David PadinGrand Archon

Edmer Mercado ‘15Vice Archon

Nacho Domingo ‘16Keeper of the Rolls

JC Gonzales ‘16Custodian of Funds

The SeekerEDITORIAL BOARD

Taking Marella ‘10Editor-In-Chief

Zedy Macatiag ‘14Associate Editor

JP Salvador ‘17Deanne CapiralLayout Editors

By David Padin




Profiles: Abdiel Dan Elijah “Ade” Fajardo ’96 at the Helm of the IBP

populist sentiment is likely a product of collective frustration by people whose lives are marked by denied opportunities. Thus, we should not fight the public for demanding that we now justify our role in society. We should engage them. We call ourselves servants of the public interest. If we take this to heart, then we should communicate better, ask where we have failed, and keep our promises to improve.”

More than displaying wisdom with the foregoing words, Ade ’96 practices what he preaches. On behalf of the IBP, he boldly filed criminal and administrative charges against the cops who were involved in the Kian De Los Santos killing. He also helped forge a partnership between the Commission on Human Rights, pledging lawyers who would go out of their way to defend the downtrodden from human rights abuses.Sigma Rhoans, after all, are destined for greatness. Numerous brods have assumed the mantleof IBP President, namely: Marcelo Fernan ’48 (1977-1979), Edgardo Angara ’52 (1979-1981), Ysidro Perez’ 49 (1981-1983), Leon Garcia, Jr. ’49 (1987-

1989), Mervyn Encanto ’66 (1993-1995), Raoul Angangco ’77 (1995-1997), Jose Aguila “JG” Grapilon ’67 (1997-1999), Arthur Lim ’64 (1999-2001), Teofilo “Popoy” Pilando ’82 (2001-2003), Jose Anselmo Cadiz ’81 (2003-2005), Jose Vicente “Jovy” Salazar ’87 (2005-2007).

Ade ‘96’s Presidency tallies as the 12th out of 23 terms in the entire existence of the IBP—meaning more than half of the IBP’s existence was presided over by Sigma Rhoans! Truly, the fraternity remains a national force.

Am I still daunted by Ade ’96? Yes. Reading about him on the news, I am challenged as a young law student, as a resident Sigma Rhoan, and as an aspiring lawyer to leave a legacy in the same way that Ade ’96 is doing. Meeting him occasionally, and being humbled by his affable demeanor, I am dared to keep my feet on the ground even as a proud Sigma Rhoan. By setting the bar higher and higher for future generations, brods like Ade ’96 enrich the continuous evolution and improvement of our ranks.

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KAYANGKAYAPASA50: Batch 67’s Night of All Sigma Rho Nights

It was after all 50 years in the making, spearheaded by part of the successful 22 out of the 44 original initiates who dared struggle to etch their names onto the 1967 Rolls of the most magnificent and greatest fraternity in the University, nay in the universeThe event was held at the newest and much-patronized entertainment, leisure and touristic hotel in Manila—the Winford Manila Resort & Casino. Winford is one among the major business stakes of our magnanimous 1967 Grand Archon Alfonso Rosete “Boy” Reyno ’61 GA ‘67, Jr.The night was graced by Senators Frank Drilon ’66 and Sonny Angara ’96, who briefly made inspiring brotherly talks. Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Sal Panelo ’66; Congressmen Raul Daza ‘54, Ronnie Cosalan ’73 GA ’82, and Jess Manalo ’72; more than 200 brods and many sister Deltans, in their best suits and dresses, streamed into the cavernous Winford grand ballroom.

Could anyone not describe that affair as grand? Dottie Gancayco ΔλΣ ‘82, lawyer-empresario, perfectly saw to that. The success of the Batch’s preparations, program, performances & the unrelenting passion were directed

NOVEMBER 26, 2017, the 50th Anniversary of the glorious Batch 1967 of the Sigma Rho Fraternity. T’was anything but merely regal and great in the realm of Fraternity celebrations. And proudly, no other fraternity in the whole University of the Philippines could beat that gala night.

by her servicio pro bono and mainly for our love and respect for our Delta Lambda Sigma sisters reaffirming Sigma Rho’s Second Code of Action.The classy mood was at once set by the delightful serenade by no less than today’s Filipino violin virtuoso Master Merlon Lagaya—Concertmaster of the ASEAN Symphony Orchestra; principal violinist of II Divo, Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli’s Asian concert tour; awarded Best Violinist in Asia by the Asian Achievers Awards; and twice an ALIW awardee for Best Instrumentalist among others. Backed by the String Session string quartet, his performance was to be only three numbers but ended up to seven as the ever-animated-now-tamed RhoSig brethren yearned for more. By then, the program had not yet even started.

Our National Anthem and the heartful The Prayer then raised everyone’s spirits upon delivery by the onstage trio of baritone Lawrence Jatayna, alto Jaynebee Jatayna and soprano Dot Gancayco (Dottie happened to be Kathawit Champion, former UP Concert Chorus soloist). Three brods—the night’s Co-Emcee Joel Mayo ’82, Eli “Mastu” Tomas ’67 and Jose ‘Boy” Leonardo ’72—

led the Sigma Rho Hymn. Joel of the sharp Batangas blades, Mastu of the no-surrender Waray tribe and AS barako BoyL solemnly rendered our sacred hymn quite away from their respective campus heyday reputations.Two separate duet numbers were wowed by the discerning audience of Leaders-Scholars-Gentlemen-Warriors: We Kiss In A Shadow/I Have Dreamed medley by Jatayna and Dot. Later on, Dot shared a song with Sal Panelo—after the unrelenting urges by the crowd—who gave a two-lawyers’ justice to Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang. Even the Celebrations DOTcom Events Company technical & production at the rear gallery—composed of Ricky Ramos, Choreographer Louie, Director Ojet—urged for more, almost missing the cues and spiels. Yet, “no more please,” pleaded President Duterte’s head legal honcho.

Around the Batch ’67 table were brods reminiscing the old times—shindigs; discos; Beatlemania; UP Law forensics; AS debates; haranahan, mostly in the campus ladies dorms; bolrams, or what the late idol Paeng Salas ’48 subliminally termed “pugilistic exercises”; UP student politics; Loyalty-Arbor Day; the First Quarter Storm;

By Tranquilino “Ka Lino” Atienza, Jr ‘67




Diliman Commune and the rise of youthful nationalists, atbpng. di pa naagaw ng idad (aka senior moments). These brods were Ilonggo Amado “Madz” Andrada ’67, beyond yet the fatigue after three moons and a week to help prepare for this night of nights; Zambales’ son & practicing lawyer Enrique “Ike” Madarang ’67; US-based Mastu; Paolo “Pau” Lazatin ’67, based in Angeles City; and Guillermo “Jimmy” Nolasco ’67; Romblon’s Fortunito “Dodong” Madrona ’66, now honorable Paranaque RTC Judge; on freedom furlough, National Democratic Front consultant Rafael “Paeng” Baylosis ’67; and KAYANGKAYAPASA50 Anniversary Chair, international arbitrator, and the pride of Carigara, Leyte Jose Aguila “JG” Grapilon ‘67.

Unable to attend were our batchmates Emmanuel “Manny” Soriano ’67 (US), Magtanggol “Maggy” Marzan ’67 (US), Ely Asuncion ’67 (US), Renato “Tato” Bitanga ’67 (Ilocos), Delfin Catapang ’67 (Mindoro Oriental) and Eleazar “Ely” Reyes ’67 of the renowned PECABAR Law, who was tied down by a client in Germany. Together with Chair JG, Ely gave out more than a fourth of the overall funds for KAYANGKAYAPASA50. Representing the Batch, they also provided half a million pesos’ worth to the Sigma Rho Help Fund.

How we missed so much and more than ever the company of those who were with us in struggle to be valiant RhoSig ‘67s, but who went ahead to be at peace in God’s garden of joy—Bene Janeo ’67 of Iloilo, Augusto “Ogot” Roldan ’67 of Aklan, Domingo “Doming” Teyu ’67 of Manila, Rashid Saber ’67 of Marawi, Edgar “Father” Azarraga ’67 of Iloilo, and Francisco “Frank” Chavez ‘67 of Bacolod. Happy memories with them remain and prayers, our dear brods, until we meet again.

Nevertheless, the night of class, gaiety, steamy dinner and wine aflowing streamed on.

Serenades, songs and encounters with long-lost brods, matched by the revelry, ribbings and at times an unusually calm, collected and classy crowd of senior, junior and resident brods ruled that night at Winford.

Gleefully too, the night was filled with raffles, which included the Cruise-for-Two in the Carribean, Travel-for-Two to Hongkong and Singapore, wide-screen High Def/LED TV set, and an Overnight-at-Winford-for-Two courtesy of Archon Boy Reyno—as if having the affair at his Winford was not enough. Most-coveted was the top raffle prize , a brand-new Suzuki Alto!

Amidst much ado, breath-stopping, and watchful eyes over the two remaining tickets in the bowl, the winning ticket was held high by Archon Boy himself—the car was finally won by another former Archon, Len Serrano ’73 GA ‘76.

Over a hundred ΣΡ ’67-labeled and exclusively-brewed wine, ΣΡ ’67 mugs, and black ΣΡ ‘67-emblazoned t-shirts were given out as souvenirs to all. They serve as mementos, in remembrance of the night of all Sigma Rho nights, for many years and celebrations to come.Until KAYANGKAYAPASA100, brods: Fight! Fight!

Freshman Orientation Seminar: A Campus ForceBy Elmore Ornelas ‘16

The freshmen orientation event, ADAPT, was held at the UP Film Center and Malcolm Hall last August 5, 2017. The yearly event serves as an introduction to the 320 UP Law freshmen entering the UP College of Law as they begin their long journey in the college. This year’s ADAPT was spearheaded by Gershon Cariño ’16, 2nd year Batch Representative to the UP Law Student Government, and made successful with the help of Rey Alan De Juan ’16, Jimbo Maniri ’16 and Justin Paras ’16, brods who were part of the organizing committee.

The activities came in the form of mock recitation classes, a comprehensive tour of the college, and speeches from distinguished UP Law alumni, one of whom was our very own IBP President Atty. Abdiel Dan Elijah “Ade” Fajardo ’96. He shared his experiences as a young law student and Sigma Rhoan who, like his audience before him, had to tackle the rigors of Malcolm Hall. More importantly, Ade ‘96 left the

Ade ’96 speaks before the incoming freshmen

(L-R): Amil ’16, Elmore ’16, and Rean ‘16

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Conquering the PLJOnly one student-run law review in the country exists almost as old as the modern Philippine legal system itself. Established in 1914, the Philippine Law Journal (PLJ) is the oldest law review in the Philippines and the oldest English language law journal in Asia. For more than a century, the PLJ has been featuring various legal articles and notes written by law students, faculty members, legal professionals, and members of the judiciary, including the Philippine Supreme Court.

Many of these articles are cited in—and some have even influenced—our jurisprudence. PLJ Vol. 47, No. 2, for example, contains a paper entitled, “Intentional Torts in Philippine Law,” written in 1972 by no less than Associate Justice Antonio Carpio ‘70 GA ‘73 when he was a law student. This article now forms part of his dissenting opinion in the 2003 case of MVRS v. Islamic Da’wah Council of the Philippines (apart from being a required reading in torts classes in UP Law).

The PLJ’s prestige emanates not only from its long history and legal influence. It is also reputed to be a narrow and exclusive circle. To be qualified

for admission to its Editorial Board, a student must have no failing grade (not even 4.0) and must have a General Weighted Average of at least 2.25. Qualified students undergo a series of competitive examinations, after which, only 10 are selected to become official members of the Editorial Board, with the two who rank first and second in the examinations serving as the chair and vice chair, respectively. No doubt, joining the Editorial Board is a daunting challenge only a few have accomplished. Except that Sigma Rhoans have conquered the PLJ, many times over. For 103 years since the PLJ was established, 104 brods have been admitted to its Editorial Board. Seventeen of whom became chairpersons, including former Associate Justice Efren Plana ‘48, Senator Juan Ponce Enrile ‘52, former Solicitor General Francisco Chavez ‘67, and Associate Justice Antonio Carpio ‘70 GA ’73. Eight brods became vice chairpersons, including former Secretary of National Defense Avelino Cruz ‘75. Brods who became editors include former Senate President

Marcelo Fernan ‘48, former Senator Edgardo Angara ‘52, Associate Justice Presbitero Velasco ‘66, former Solicitor General Simeon Marcelo ‘75, and Senator Sonny Angara ‘96. The fraternity’s streak continues to this day. Two resident brods, Taking Marella ‘10 and TJ Jumamil ’11, recently qualified as editors of PLJ Volume 91. They succeeded Ryan Malit ‘14, who served as editor of Volume 90, who in turn followed Efren Resurreccion ‘12, an editor of Volume 89. It is worthy to note that PLJ Vol. 90, No. 1 features four legal articles, two of which are authored by brods. Efren Resurreccion ‘12 wrote an article entitled “Charting the Waters of Constitutional Construction: A Function-based Framework for Appreciating our Constitutional State Policies.” On the other hand, Stan Geronimo ‘11 authored “How Short Sales Circumvent the Capital Gains Tax System.”

As the PLJ continues its long and storied tradition, Sigma Rhoans can be counted upon to enable the PLJ in promoting legal scholarship.

By Zedy Macatiag ‘14




May it Please the Court: Residents in Moot Court

By James Uaminal ‘15

In Malcolm Hall, mooting has remained an exciting facet of extra-curricular life. It enables law students to experience first-hand, albeit in a simulated setting, the rigors of arguing in the chambers of august institutions like the Supreme Court, International Criminal Court or the International Court of Justice. Apart from the privileged experience, it has become a platform where future litigators, advocates and even judges can show-off their critical thinking and legal analysis.

Year in and year out, our brods have consistently made their presence felt in the moot court arena within and outside the UP College of Law and even in international competitions. True to our identity as Seekers of the Right, we have proven ourselves

ready to fight for and defend our side of the argument, wielding our legal wisdom as expressed in oratorics. Indeed, mooting and debate is just another battlefield where our brods gain glory and reap honor for the Fraternity.

Following the footsteps of our brods who have left legacies both in moot court and in actual courtroom skirmishes, we are proud of our resident brods who have participated and won in the following moot court competitions.

The team of TJ Jumamil ’11 landed as Semi-Finalist in the 2017 International Criminal Court Moot Competition, conducted in The Hague, Netherlands. Besides

serving as the incumbent Vice President for External Relations of the UP Law Debate and Moot Court Union, TJ ’11 is currently a member of the UP Law team to the Philip Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition. In the 2017 UP Law Malcolm Cup, the team of Renz Alinas ’15, Tristan Castillo ’15 and James Uaminal ’15 finished as Quarter-Finalists. Renz ’15 also participated this year in the 1st Laurel Cup conducted by Lyceum of the Philippines University College of Law. For generations to come, more brods are counted upon to participate in moot court competitions and reap honor with good fight.

TJ ’11 with the ICC team Receiving their certificates are (L-R): James ’15, Tristan ’15, and Renz’ 15.




The Tradition ContinuesThe Sigma Rho has remained committed to a tradition of excellence in the various fields of life. With almost 80 years having passed since the formal organization of the Fraternity, its members continue to uphold these standards of excellence. This is exemplified by a multitude of brods who have recently garnered notable accomplishments in various fields.

Among the proudest achievements attained this 2017 belongs to Atty. Oscar Franklin Tan ’02. Oscar ’02 was the Philippines’ lone recipient of the prestigious The Outstanding Young Persons of the World award for 2017. He was granted the award at the Junior Chamber International World Congress in Amsterdam, Netherlands. He was recognized as a renowned and critical legal columnist, as well as a leader of Overseas Filipino Workers. A writer for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Tan has published over 200 columns tackling several national issues.

This award supplements the The Outstanding Young Men award, which Oscar ‘02 won back in 2014 for his thought leadership in legal and other issues. Oscar ‘02 is an attorney-at-law admitted to the New York Supreme Court. He attained a Master of Law degree at Harvard Law School in 2007, and was a former Chairman of the Philippine Law Journal during his stay in the University of the Philippines College of Law.

By Nacho Domingo ‘16Meanwhile, in the field of photography, Rick Rocamora ’63 was selected as a finalist for the Philip Jones Griffiths Foundation Award 2017 for his photograph entitled Bursting on the Seams. The Philip Jones Griffiths Foundation is renowned international foundation geared at propagating the art of photography. Rick ‘63’s work will be displayed at Gallery 46 in London, England which opens on the 7th of December.

Earlier this year, Rick ‘63 was also featured by Esquire Magazine for his photo essay entitled Blood, Sweat, Hope, and Quiapo. Rocamora’s depiction the story of Rodallie Mosende and the adversity faced by the citizens of Quiapo, Manila was so striking that it encouraged a benefactor to finance Mosende’s college education at Lyceum of the Philippines University. Continuing Batch ‘63’s streak is Pedro “Edru” Abraham ’63. He was recently awarded the Aliw Awards Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to indigenous music. Seeking to elevate the standards of Philippine entertainment, Aliw Awards Foundation, Inc. recognizes Filipino performers who have left a mark in Philippine culture. Recognizing the power of music and sports to change people’s lives, MusiKARAMAY was founded by our very own Stanley Seludo ’96. Through this organization, Stanley ’96 aims to define the present day

exemplars and create a positive influence in Filipino communities. Just recently, MusiKARAMAY organized a Basketball 3x3 Para sa Marawi, a basketball tournament which sought to raise funds for the war-torn area. Stanley ’96 was himself awarded Musician’s MVP after garnering 24 points, 9 rebounds, and 1 assist. Also in the field of photography, Macbeth Omega ’01 was awarded in the first Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) photography competition in the Philippines. The competition was themed JICA and the Filipinos: Images of a Better Tomorrow.

In a competition featuring over 250 entries, Macbeth ‘01 took home the second overall prize for his photograph entitled NO MORE KILLER FLOODS which depicted the flood control project initiated by JICA in Ormoc, Leyte. Co-authors Henry Aguda ’02, Bo Tiojanco ’04, and Sasa Montes ΔλΣ ’06 also landed as finalists in the 36th National Book Awards. Their book, Data Privacy and Cybercrime Prevention, was considered as among the best books on professions.

In the field of the hard sciences, an academic paper written by Materials Engineering graduate Stewart Go Roa ’10 was selected to be presented at the 2017 5th International Conference

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Sigma Rhoans Who Entered Government Service in 2017The Sigma Rho is a national force. Throughout the Fraternity’s existence, numerous brods have manifested this tenet in their exemplary government service. This 2017, numerous brods have assumed key positions in government service, affirming once more the nation’s reliance on the Sigma Rho mark of excellence.

Representing the Philippine in foreign affairs is Eduardo “Eddie” De Vega ’89, who was recently appointed Ambassador to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg. Eddie ‘89’s appointment is counted upon to strengthen PH-EU relations. Eddie ‘89 joined the Philippine Mission to the UN in July 2011 initially to serve as head of the Second Committee which deals with economic, financial and environmental matters. About a year later, he took up his role as Deputy Permanent Representative—the second highest ranking position at the UN Mission.

Still in the executive branch, two brods were appointed, both as Assistant Secretaries, in the Department of Energy. These are Gerardo “Gerpy” Erguiza ’81 GA

’89 and Bodie Pulido ’96 GA ’01.

In another executive body, Ernesto Albano ’79 was appointed as Tariff Commissioner of the National Economic Development Authority. In such capacity, he is in charge of setting tariff rates, negotiating trade deals, and proposing trade remedy measures.

Yasser Ismail Abbas ’96 recently assumed the post of Director for Legal Services in the Bureau of Customs. With Yasser ’96 in the Bureau of Customs, he joins Mark Joven ’01 GA ’04 in the bigger cluster of the Department of Finance, where the latter serves as Assistant Secretary.

In another regulatory body, namely the Department of Transportation, Raul Canon ’96 assumed the post of Assistant Secretary, picking up from where Gerard Chan ’01 left off. Raul ’96 was formerly Attorney III of the previous Department of Transportation and Communications.

Gerard ’01 has since moved on to serve in the Privatization and Management Office where he was recently appointed Chief

Privatization Officer. To achieve the commitment to a free market economy, his office is charged with the privatization of previously government owned assets.

Antonio “Tony” Gallardo ’66, on the other hand was appointed Undersecretary of the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office in the Office of the President. Tony ‘66 was once the Governor of the Province of Camiguin. During his stint therein, he was awarded as one of the 10 Outstanding Governors of the Philippines in 1992. Before this, he served as Chief-of-Staff of then Senate President and now Senator Franklin Drilon ‘66 from 2003 to 2007.

In recognition of his distinguished commitment to Muslim advocacy, Firdausi “Singh” Abbas ’66 was appointed as Justice and Security Commissioner of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission. Singh ‘66’s position is key to securing stable and lasting progress in Mindanao.Finally, Col. Randy Remonte ’86 joined the recently formed 88th Infantry Battalion, operating

By Taking Marella ’10 and Guian Pasion ‘17

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“Leader, Scholar, Gentleman, and Warrior”: Reflections and Reminiscences

My dear brods:

My name is George Briones. I joined the Sigma Rho Fraternity in 1970 when I was a freshman taking up AB Political Science in UP Diliman’s College of Arts and Sciences. There were about 80 of us who were neophytes and the list was ultimately trimmed down to 40.

It has been 48 years since that time. In two years, Sigma Rho Batch ’70 will celebrate its Golden Anniversary. It is now time to reflect and reminisce about our times in the University and in the UP College of Law.

I would say as Dickens said: It was the best of times; it was the worst of times. It was the worst of times because the country was in a tempest and President Marcos would declare martial law in 1971. It was the best of times because I never had happier moments with my fraternity brothers in the Sigma Rho, and I would not trade those times for the world.After our initiations, Batch ’70 would produce five Grand Archons: the first was Leonardo “Nards” Mamba who became Mayor of Tuao, Cagayan, now deceased but whose family remains as political leaders of Cagayan Province; followed by now Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio

“Tony” Carpio; then Lucien E. Sayuno, who became Regional Director of the Bureau of Internal Revenue; then came Oscar “Oca” Gozos, who became Congressman representing the Fourth District of Batangas and Mayor of Lipa City; and finally, myself, now a private law practitioner and previously President of the IBP, Quezon City Chapter.

Unlike the residents’ batches of today, the five of us came from different political groups. That each of us became Grand Archon is a testimony to our leadership, scholarship, that of being a gentleman, and also a warrior.

I want to talk you about the phrase: “Leader, Scholar, Gentleman and Warrior” which I had the opportunity to author.

I was a senior in the UP College of Law in 1977 when the Fraternity elected me Grand Archon. In the 70’s the brods excelled in scholarship and leadership. The editor of the Philippine Collegian when martial law was declared was Oscar “Ogy” Yabes who became Secretary of the Senate. He was succeeded as editor of the Philippine Collegian by Cosme “Tammy” Rosell who would top the 1979 Bar examinations placing first. Tammy and Ogy were

my classmates in the class of 1978. After us, Simeon “Sonny” Marcelo of the Class of 1979 would place sixth in the bar exams. Sonny would become Solicitor General of the Philippines, and then Ombudsman.

Before us, Victor “Boy” Lazatin of Class 1971 would place 3rd in the bar exams. My ka-batch Luis “Chito” Vera Cruz of Class 1974 would place 10th in the bar exams. Chito would become Managing Partner of ACCRALAW like BoyLaz. My other ka-batch Tony Carpio of Class 1975 would place 6th in the bar exams. A class ahead of us, Avelino “Nonong” Cruz of Class 1977 would place 7th in the bar exams. Nonong would become Chief Presidential Legal Counsel like Tony, and then Secretary of National Defense.

All of us members of the UP Law Class of 1978 would pass the bar with flying colors. During our time it was normal that UP would top the bar and 100% of the class would pass the exams. Our professors made sure we studied hard. My classmate Rene C. Villa would become Secretary of Agrarian Reform. Another classmate Ronald “Ronnie” Cosalan would also be Grand Archon and then Congressman representing the Province of Benguet up to now. Speaking of Congress, two ka-

delivered before one of the residents’ General Meetings in 2016; reproduced herein for circulation

by Atty. George S. Briones ’70 GA ‘77




batch Nelson “Sonny” Collantes would represent the Third District of Batangas, and Simeon “Mon” Garcia would represent the Second District of Nueva Ecija.

In 1974 when I entered the UP College of Law it was Arthur “Pancho” Villaraza who would interview me as part of the panel as President of the Law Student Government (LSG). Pancho would be one of the founding partners of “The Firm.” My ka-batch Romy Barza also became President of the LSG. Romy would be President of the Philippine Judges Association, and is now Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeals of the Philippines.

Going back to the phrase: “Leader, Scholar, Gentleman and Warrior” which I coined when I was the Grand Archon of our fraternity. I was then residing inside campus at the Ipil Residence Hall. My roommate was Jose Perpetuo “Juju” Lotilla a scholar and my close adviser who would join the Sigma Rho when I was GA, and who became Undersecretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications. I wanted to capture in just a few words the ideals of a good Sigma Rhoan. But I wanted to emphasize the first word as what I considered the best ideal, then the other words would follow in a descending order importance.

Thus, “leader” because at that time the senior brods were not only Senators but were President of the Senate: Jovito “Jovy” Salonga,

Edgardo “Ed” Angara, Marcelo “Celing” Fernan, Juan “Johnny” Ponce Enrile and Franklin “Frank” Drilon. Our hope was in time a brod would be President of the republic. Thus we now look to Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara to carry on.

“Scholar” because our contemporaries excelled in academics, topped the bar, were good writers and respected members of the bench and bar like Justice Presbitero “Presby” Velasco of the Supreme Court, and Justice Jhoseph Lopez of the Court of Appeals. Our Dean of the College of Law then, Bartolome “Bart” Carale who studied in Michigan always emphasized on us the word “scholar” as we were all UP students and therefore “Iskolars ng Bayan.”

“Gentleman” because our beloved sisters of the Delta Lambda Sigma always complained to the Grand Archon about the brods. And I put “Warrior” as the last, because there were too many fraternity rumbles and this had to change. And true enough, when I was at the helm of our fraternity we reduced greatly if not completely eliminated rumbles, and peace flourished in the campus.

So there you have it, brods: Leader, Scholar, Gentleman and Warrior. This is now proudly emblazoned in the Cover Picture of the Sigma Rho’s Facebook page.

To end I want you to carry on the torch of leadership and scholarship

my dear resident brods. Always be a gentleman but learn how to fight for what is right like a true warrior. But always enjoy your stay in our beloved alma mater, the University of the Philippines. You will have gained memories of a lifetime.

The Tradition Continues

on Nano and Materials Science organized by the South Asia Institute of Science & Engineering held in San Diego, California last January.

Sting ’10, as he is fondly called, was awarded as the best oral presenter during the event, and received multiple offers to pursue further studies in multiple renowned universities abroad.

These are just a few of the accomplishments garnered by the alumni Sigma Rhoans this year. With a new year looming just beyond the horizon, the brods will undoubtedly perpetuate our tradition of excellence moving forward.

From Page 8




To Those Who Have Passed On: Necrological Services from a Resident’s PerspectiveThe resident brod’s feeling of grief, upon learning of an alumni brod’s demise, is a rather curious experience. Save for the exchange of war stories over matu during fellowships, the alumni brod might never have shared any personal experiences with the residents. Absent the common term of acquaintance as “brods”, one might never attend the wake of someone unfamiliar and generations apart.

Since the start of 2017 until the publication of this newsletter, the following brods have passed on from our physical realm: Nap Sta. Romana ’57, Loreto Santiago ’64, Anda Bolinas ’89, Chito Banzon ’78, Emmanuel “Sonny” Mariano ’69, Armando Padilla ’48 GA ’52, Bienvenido “Benny” Medel ’54, and Jose De La Cruz ‘54. Thus, the curious feeling revisited the residents and we, in keeping with tradition, maintained our attendance in the fraternity’s necrological services. The Sigma Rho Fraternity adheres, after all, to an oral tradition. It is through fellowships, tambay, matu, and necrological services that brods—resident and alumni alike—are able to cultivate

By Taking Marella ’10 & Victor Batara ‘14

familiarity and bridge generations’ worth of disparity. Through such collective narrative, the fraternity maintains its identity while at the same time evolving its traditions. In contrast to a written tradition, which youngbloods can just browse through during their own leisure, the fraternity’s oral narrative provides more intimate and meaningful interactions.

Necrological services are a unique derivative of this collective narrative. Resident brods sit along the pews and listen to stories—heartwarming, comical, inspiring, epic, or heartbreaking—about the dearly departed brod. In these occasions, residents come to know more about the departed brod—what he had achieved, what he stood for, and what he fought for; but most importantly, resident brods gain an insight as to the lessons that the deceased might have wanted to entrust to the residents.

Thus, our fraternity’s collective narrative comes full circle. While the deceased brod physically departs from this world, the intangible part of his being a Sigma Rhoan is

passed on to the residents who, in their own physical capacity, can give effect to the same.

To the Leaders, Scholars, Gentlemen, and Warriors who have passed on, we raise our glasses of matu to you in Sigma Rho heaven. Cheers!

in Maramag, Bukidnon. Along with other units, Randy ‘86’s 88IB is tasked to address national security issues such as insurgencies and terrorism.

These brods are expected to deliver no less than their best and, more importantly, to aid in mentoring and ushering in the next generation of Sigma Rhoan public servants.

Sigma Rhoans Who

Entered Government

Service in 2017From Page 9




Residents’ Cebu SemPlanBy Kyle Salazar ‘17

Relationships are not formed at a snap of your finger; they require time to be molded into perfection. Last January 5 to 8, 2018, residents of the UP Sigma Rho Fraternity together, led by the resident Grand Archon, held their annual Semester Planning in Cebu. My experience in Cebu attests that Sigma Rhoans stand as true brothers above the rest. The SemPlan focused primarily on the Fraternity’s line-up of activities for 2018. The Academic committee laid down several important points for the incoming second semester. The first concerns the brods’ grades. A matrix of grades is necessary for the seniors to monitor and mentor the brods in their studies. Second, for enrollment concerns, brods were asked to coordinate with Gershon Cariño ’16 for important dates to consider. Lastly, the Academic Drive of Sigma Rho had to be updated for purposes of resource sharing. Brods were asked to organize their first semester reviewers, and include information such as their subjects and professors.

In light of the incoming Law Student Government (LSG) and University Student Council (USC) elections, Karlo Domondon ’14 and Gershon Cariño ’16 highlighted several things. In the incoming LSG elections, I and Maoi Delos Reyes ’16 signified our intent to run for 2nd year batch representative and evening representative, respectively. For the USC elections, both Nacho Domingo ’16 and Tierone Santos ’16 will be running for University-wide Councilor posts. And for local college-wide elections, Hezi Rance ’17 will pursue a position as 4th year batch representative in the College of Business Administration. In partnership with the USC, Sigma Rho will also conduct a Mock LAE

on January 20. Guian Pasion ’17 will be leading this event. Still, another event lined-up is Laws and Found on February 2—an event which aims to encourage undergraduates to pursue law studies, with no less than our brods inspiring them to do so. The tentative speakers for the event is one law student, likely Taking Marella ’10, one young lawyer, perhaps Martin Loon ’10.

Brods were also put to task concerning recruitment efforts. Recruits are, after all, the lifeblood of the Fraternity, and each quality recruit contributes to the glory of the Sigma Rho. Mijo Solis ’10 also proposed a project where the Fraternity can give back to the community. Such project, to be launched hopefully by the end of February, consists of medical missions and legal aid. Rex Rivera ’16 was tasked to head this proposal. But more than just laying down the residents’ objectives, the Cebu Semplan fostered closer ties with the resident brods. The resident brods visited both Gov. Hilario “Junjun” Davide III ’85 and Cong. Peter Calderon ‘84 as part of their itinerary. The warm and hospitable accommodation extended to the resident brods was overwhelming—not everybody gets a chance to be welcomed the way our alumni brods welcomed us in Cebu. These experiences impart that joining a fraternity is not about having instant connections; rather, it is about solidifying one’s relations with the network of people the Fraternity can offer. Stronger ties mean uplifting others, and a more difficult time for others to bring you down. The Cebu experience not only highlighted the strong ties between residents and alumni brods but also made a statement about who we are as a Fraternity—that is, true brothers above the rest.

Rhosig Holds Human Snapchat Game for FreshiesBy Gershon Cariño ‘16

Endeavoring to provide fun while equipping the first year students with an understanding of popular jurisprudence, the UP Sigma Rho Fraternity held an activity called Human Snapchat as part of this year’s Freshie Week, held at Malcolm Hall last September 13.

The said event made the freshmen portray Supreme Court cases on Criminal Law and Persons and Family Relations; such cases included U.S. v Ah Chong and Chi Ming Tsoi v. CA, in a 15-20 second skit.

This event, conducted by the resident law brods, aimed for members of UP Law Batch 2021 and Evening 2022 to bond with their blockmates, mingle with their batchmates, and get acquainted with Malcolm Hall culture. It also paved the way for the Fraternity to be introduced to the said students.

The game lasted for one (1) hour with Block E bagging the first place and Blocks A and D winning second and third place, respectively.

Revolving around the theme “Bahay ni Malcolm,” Freshie Week 2017 was spearheaded by the UP Law Student Government along with other UP Law-based organizations.




Residents’ Activities in 2017THOR BLOCK SCREENING

The UP Sigma Rho Fraternity held a special block screening of THOR: Ragnarok last October 28, 2017 at UP Town Center Cinema 3. This event is in partnership with Klasrums ng Pag-asa to raise funds for the benefit of Ma-ao Elementary School in the City of Bago, Negros Occidental. The proposed Literacy Center is envisioned to be a solar-powered facility with a ceiling designed to look and feel like a planetarium and fully-equipped with computers and books to promote an engaging learning experience for the students. With over ten corporate and organization who partnered with and supported us in this endeavor, the event was a success with a full house seating capacity during the said screening. TREKKING

The resident brods join the UP Sigma Rho Trekkers, a group of alumni brods who trek different mountains to bond with each other that is followed by an enka, matu and stiran session in a good restaurant nearby.

Some of the mountains trekked by the resident brods, together with the UP Sigma Rho Trekkers, are Mt. Batolusong (Tanay, Rizal), Mt. Talamitam (Nasugbu, Batangas) and, Mt. Daraitan (Tanay, Rizal).

FELLOWSHIP

For each month, the birthday celebrants of the fraternity, together with the resident and alumni brods, come together in one fellowship night full of enka, matu and stiran. The following were the venues of the

fellowships: Common Table Makati (July), Veterans Memorial Golf Club (August), The Reserve Liquor Lounge Pasig (September), Reserve Gastro Tavern BGC (October) and, Club Filipino (November).

BAROPS

Last November 2017, the UP Sigma Rho Fraternity held its 2017 Bar Operations to support the future lawyer brods who took the bar this year.

By JP Salvador ‘17




The future lawyer brods who took the 2017 Philippine Bar Exam are Rainier Simpas ’91, Pio Garyblas ’97, Leo Usita ’00, Chow Gatchallan ’01, Romeo Pagalilauan ’02, Ron San Juan ’04, Lean Liwanag ’04, Con PQ Quilala ’08 GA ’14, Tochi Ongkeko ’10, Stan Geronimo ’11, Terence Ferrer ’13, Gab Sollano ’13, and Ryan Malit ’14.

For several months that the brods – residents, alumni and bar takers – have spent in preparing for this year’s Philippine Bar Exam, a Beer Ops was organized at The Brickyard Tomas Morato to culminate this year’s 2017 Bar Operations with food, drinks and music.

From Page 5

The history of Malcolm Hall is, after all, intertwined with the saga of the Sigma Rho Fraternity—many brods have walked Malcolm’s august halls; they have gone on to conquer their respective fields; the Villaraza & Angangco Law Offices, like other grateful alumni, has given back to UP Law by funding the renovation of the Malcolm lobby, as well as by refurbishing the wall lettering of Justice Malcolm’s famous quote. Truly, the day’s events showcased the Sigma Rho as an enduring campus force.The final stop was the mock recitation classes where professors diagnosed the freshmen’s capability to analyze a case and break it down into its integral parts (i.e. facts, issue, ruling and key concepts). It gave law students a glimpse (more accurately a shock) of the pressure and excitement that comes from the Socratic method of instruction.

Resident brods pose with sister Deltans.Although the best teacher is always experience, the event left freshmen with a better understanding of law school and the hurdles they would need to surpass in order to be called a UP Lawyer. For the Sigma Rho Fraternity, the resident brods were able to affirm our stature in Malcolm Hall as the biggest and strongest Law-based fraternity. In the weeks after, more students were drawn towards the fraternity and its traditions, going so far as to express their intent of joining our ranks. Resident brods pose with sister

Deltans.

Freshman Orientation Seminar:

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