By: Ryan Tejero
The President of the University of the Philippines, Atty. Angelo Jimenez was the special guest speaker and inducting officer of the newly-formed board of directors at the recently concluded 22nd UP Alumni Association in America (UPAAA) Biennial Grand Reunion and Convention (GRC). This event was held at the Hyatt Hotel in New Brunswick, New Jersey on October 21, 2023. More than 250 of UP alumni and non-alumni guests witnessed one of, if not the most successful and grandiose GRC ever held by UPAAA. Other top guests present were former UP Manila Chancellor, who was recently conferred with Order of National Scientist, Dr. Carmencita Padilla, and Former Philippines Vice President, Atty. Leni Robredo.
This is the first time that President Jimenez graced the event of UPAAA. UP President Jimenez delivered a very inspiring and empowering speech. He encouraged every UP alumnus at the GRC, he said “If you want to do something, make it big, make it difficult, make it hard. Our job is to do the impossible, and to find a way finally of fulfilling the promise of UP to the Filipino people of a just, prosperous, and equitable society.”
Encouraged alumni to create an impact and take leadership
Honored at this year’s GRC were the Jubilarians and the Outstanding UP alumni and alumni group in America. The concerted efforts of the GRC Team led by Dr. Jovenia Soriano-Celo (New Jersey) was shown in every detail of the GRC event. There were only accolades and praises given to the GRC leadership.
Outgoing UPAAA President Dr. Jose David (New York) said “Now finishing the Presidency with a very successful year, I am very grateful to my executive board, committee members and the support from all my friends. What made it even more special, both former Vice President of the Philippines, Leni Robredo and the 2023 National Scientist, Carmencita David-Padilla, attended this event.”
Incoming UPAAA President, Dr. Winston Umali (New Jersey) expressed his excitement to work with the new members of the board. He said “I anticipate an exciting term working harmoniously with these equally dedicated colleagues from different fields of expertise to address issues and needs of UP students from the different campuses of UP. UPAAA is uniquely positioned to be a center of alumni relations as we cater to ALL U.P. graduates residing all over the US, and aims to provide them with a home where the UP spirit lives on! Padayon!”
One Philippines Editor-in-Chief is Executive Vice President of UPAAA 2024-2025
Ryan Tejero (Texas), who is the Editor-in-Chief of One Philippines Texas News, was elected as the new Executive Vice-President of UPAA in America. He joined UPAAA in 2021. Ryan has been active in the UP alumni community for many years. In 2016, he became the President of UPAA of Greater Chicago. He currently sits as a member of the board of UPAA Houston Chapter. As a journalist, he had featured many articles about UP alumni leaders and organizations across America.
Publisher and owner of One Philippines Texas News, Bhong Zausa said that “Ryan is one of most genuine FilAm leaders I know around. His heart goes out to helping build a strong FilAm community. He is an outstanding media personality. I will make sure that One Philippines Texas News will support UPAAA in its activities. One Philippines is so proud of your accomplishments Ryan!”
For more photos and videos of the 2023 GRC and to learn more about the UPAAA, please visit www.upaainamerica.org, linkedi n.com/company/UPAAA or http:// www.facebook.com/ UPAAAoficialpage. Photos by Dr. Jun David and Zen Ply.
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