Honoring tradition, building legacy: Golden Jubilarians' enduring impact
By Paully May Valencia
Every October, UPLB comes alive with the spirit of remembrance, gratitude, and unwavering commitment as the university celebrates Loyalty Day and Alumni Homecoming. More than just a reunion, this annual tradition pays tribute to the courage and solidarity of those who, in 1918, answered the call to serve. Their legacy lives on—not only in the history books but in the hearts of the alumni who return.
Beloved alumni do not merely come back to reminisce; they come with a purpose—to give back, to inspire, and to leave a lasting mark on the institution that shaped their journey. Through meaningful legacy projects, they continue to strengthen the UPLB community, ensuring that future generations benefit from the same excellence and dedication that once propelled them forward. Their contributions are not just monuments of gratitude but testaments to a tradition of service that transcends time.
Today, UPLB continues this legacy by entrusting the Golden Jubilarians—alumni celebrating their 50th year since graduation—with the lead role in organizing the festivities. Supported by the UPLB Office of Alumni Relations (OAR) and the UPLB Alumni Association (UPLBAA), the community comes together to celebrate the values of service, dedication, and lifelong connection that Loyalty Day represents.
As we celebrate the UPLB Loyalty Day and Alumni Homecoming in October, the Golden Jubilarians return to their alma mater with a deep sense of nostalgia, gratitude, and a shared commitment to leave a lasting mark. More than a reunion, this milestone is an opportunity to give back through meaningful legacy projects that enrich the UPLB community.
Golden Jubilarians have championed initiatives that reflect their lifelong dedication to the University. Their projects range from infrastructure improvements to facilities addressing the evolving needs of UPLB constituents. These efforts embody their unwavering belief in the university’s mission and their desire to uplift future generations.
The legacy projects is their way to give back to their beloved alma mater. After the pandemic, UPLBAA in partnership with UPLB through the OAR realized the need to upgrade the facilities in the University Health Service (UHS). After pandemic, these are the legacy projects that are installed in the UHS such as the Emergency Room Extension Facility initiated by Class of 1971, the UHS Heart Station initiated by Class of 1972, and the Cataract Surgery and Eye Care Facility initiated by Class of 1974. In pipeline, the Class of 1975 aims to contribute to the Breast Cancer program of UHS.