11/02/2023
Dear fellow Louisians, supporters and friends:
It was a great pleasure and privilege to host the SLU Rambakan 2023 Grand Reunion and Homecoming. It was enjoyable and successful as expressed by almost everyone. The Class reunions created an opportunity to connect with fellow alumni from our past, relive memories, and catch up with people whom we have not spoken with in many years.
Thank you, Fr. Gilbert Sales for the Plaque of Appreciation as the President of the SLU Alumni Association 2022, and the Chairman of SLU Rambakan 2023.
Thank you, too, to Engr. Nick Singson Baterina , Marianito Meneses, and Dr. Grace Carrido for giving me a Poster of Commendation.
I am not telling the truth if I say I was not elated. In truth, I am extremely happy. You touched my inner self.
We had our very successful SLU Rambakan 2023 because everyone contributed in making it a unique event, and also because of the following:
• The Souvenir Magazine alone managed by Engr. Nick Singson and Marianito Meneses was already a huge success.
• The Rock Mass, celebrating it’s 50th anniversary c/o Joy Alviar Dalaten and the Rock Mass team, was also a success.
• Both the Matinee and Gala Night programs c/o Dr. Fely Fortea and Nito Meneses were entertaining and overwhelmingly loved by the alumni.
• Bravo to the very talented and superb performers: Marcus Rivera, Ingrid Payaket, Jeff Coronado, Lloyd Alfred Benter, SLU CCA Glee Club & Dance Troupe, ballroom dancers Kevin & Joanna, hula dancers Fely Fortea and Alou Meneses, SLU Marching Band, & sax player Sam Urgente; as well as our skillful emcees Andrew Macalma & April Gumnad.
• The record-breaking attendance in both Matinee and Gala programs is undoubtedly commendable. The presence of the jubilarians from the Golden batch 1973 and Silver 1998 was memorable.
• The generosity of the members of the Rambakan core group and the sub-committees who volunteered their time and efforts is truly inspiring.
• The Legacy Wall and the Legacy Scholarship Program are tangible Rambakan 2023 achievements.
• Our ever-supportive and understanding life partners: Mrs. Myrna Lopez, Mrs. Virgie Baterina and Mrs. Alou Meneses who were behind-the-scenes, but who actively assisted us alongside our 24/7 hectic and stressful preparations.
I am not also telling the truth if I say it wasn’t that difficult. Frankly, it was really difficult. Sumakit ang baywang, kamay, mga mata, at iba pa. But despite all of these, with the help of our God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, through Mother Mary, everything went smoothly and completely accomplished.
I would like to acknowledge this message from Josephine Dalaten: “Praise the Lord, He has made you, Doc Jaime Lopez, His messenger to all SLU families. To celebrate God’s love, peace, wisdom, joy, hope, forgiveness by our gratitude and generosity as we share all our God-given talents and blessings with others. Salamat at mabuhay, Doc Jaime. God showers you with His unconditional love always. Ang galing ng pagkakaganap ng Rambakan. Tayo ay binigyan ng Diyos ng maraming katulong upang ang ating Rambakan project ay maging record breaker. Thank God for You in our lives. Thank God, through You - we celebrate life in Christ… forever! Again, salamat at mabuhay, Doc Jaime and your team. See you in the next Rambakan!”
Because of your trust and confidence, I shall likewise help our next Rambakan scheduled on March 22, 2024, as well as the forthcoming First Sydney SLU Reunion in October 2023.
Until we meet again. May God bless us all!
Jaime R. Lopez, PhD, CPA
President, SLU Alumni Association 2022
