A trip down memory lane…
On February 24, 2024, the University of the Philippines Office of Alumni Relations (OAR) successfully conducted the first Balik-Tanaw sa UP Diliman– a free walking tour within the campus grounds.
Mostly attended by UP alumni and armed with their newly purchased 1908 caps, the eager participants leisurely walked around the academic oval. Guided by Wander Manila’s Benjamin Canapi, who is also an alumnus of UP Diliman, the group learned facts about the artworks, buildings, and green spaces.
He shared anecdotes of sites and tales of events that took place within UPD such as historic AS or Palma Hall. He also pointed out new buildings and more recent additions to the grounds: the new University Health Service with its expanded facilities, the multi-level Shopping Center, which is now called UP DiliMall, and the on-going construction of FC (Faculty Commons).
The younger members of the party were surprised to know that there used to be a golf course within the campus. The supposed sinking of Sunken Garden or that Fernando Poe, Sr. was the model for the Oblation: both myths were busted during the tour.
The event became an avenue for the participants to reminisce about their good old days. They also met new and old friends. Tour guide, Mr. Benjamin Canapi himself, along with his 1995 batchmates at the College of Mass Communications, Ms. Jaymie Divinagracia and Ms. Aby Yap were thrilled to meet Prof. Elena L. Samonte-Hinckley, who was the University Registrar when they were students. Now a retired professor from the Department of Psychology, she was the oldest participant in the walk. Her student number starting with ‘68.
As the group rested on the steps of Quezon Hall, Canapi reminded everyone of the historic Diliman Commune. People discussed the significance of the university and the impact of its students and graduates to Philippine society.
“Does anyone want to sing UP Naming Mahal?,” Canapi asked.
“Sure!” the crowd responded.
“Memorize niyo?”
The group laughed and comforted themselves with many photos to commemorate the nostalgic event.
Aside from creating opportunities for alumni to revisit their alma mater and to immerse themselves once again in the UP community, OAR endeavors alumni to reconnect with the University and to actively participate in UP events and projects.
The Balik-Tanaw sa UP Diliman was free, but if you are interested in supporting future OAR projects, we still welcome any amount of donations or you may still purchase some of our merchandise through online registration: bit.ly/Balik-TanawSaUPDiliman. All proceeds will be used to fund various OAR outreach programs.
#connectingUPalumni