UPSEAA HOMECOMING THEME: BUHAY UP
This year’s homecoming theme of the UP School of Economics — “Buhay U.P.” — captures the very essence and spirit of experiencing the life of studying and graduating at UP Diliman. For those who went through the multifarious challenges of hard work, serious study and some fun during their days in the vast campus of Diliman, they can truly claim and instill in their hearts that they had a unique experience, being part of “Buhay U.P.”
By adopting the theme “Buhay U.P.,” UPSEAA aims to reach out to as many alumni to rekindle their spirit and interest in participating in the homecoming this Sept. 22. The theme refers to beloved scenes, landmarks and experiences that are familiar to any one who has gone to UP Diliman. “Buhay U.P.” can mean a lot of things to the different generations of graduates of UPSE, many of whom are now practicing their professions in various fields in different parts of the world after studying and learning economics in this premier educational institution. In the last 53 years that the school has been established, it has gone through several transformations. The experiences and landmarks may have evolved over the years, creating different impressions and memories of the campus, especially now with modern technology brought about by the digital revolution, yet somehow, there is something uniquely special about “Buhay U.P.” that one cannot seem to explain. The mystique is there, deeply ingrained in the hearts, minds and spirit of every UP alumnus.
In line with this theme, the organizers and major hosts, Batch ‘93–Silver Jubilarians and Batch ‘78–Ruby Jubilarians, prepared a unique talk show format instead of the usual “guest speaker speeches” to set the tone of a light, informative and happy homecoming. They have formed a panel of distinguished alumni who have ventured into various fields, reflecting the diversity and versatility of the UPSE alumni. The panel members will be interviewed by another UP graduate, popular stand-up comedian and talented impersonator – ‘KaladKaren’ Davila. In this lively exchange, Davila will explore the professional lives of these alumni and how their UP Economics education led them to their chosen field, in a way recalling and sharing their experiences as part of “Buhay U.P.” The panel consists of Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat (Government); Ferdinand Constantino (Corporate); Mark Querubin (Arts); Jeffrey Ng (Entrepreneur); and Prof. Solita Monsod (Academe).
This year’s homecoming is unique because everything will be free including the entrance fee, loot bag, drinks and food. Alumni can partake for free the roasted calf, specially catered food from kiosks reminiscent of those days, which we call “Buhay U.P.” Alumni attendees can drink to their hearts’ delight products of San Miguel Corp. and Destileria Limtuaco. The alumni will get the thrill of their lives, traveling down memory lane, enjoying music and dance provided by the Rocketwill Band performing songs from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Another band, The Johhny’s, will be doing ‘80s music. There will be games, raffle draws and an art exhibit on the theme “Buhay U.P.” Econians, ECOSOC and all UPSEAANS are all invited to the homecoming.