11th Avenue corner 39th Street Bonifacio Triangle Bonifacio Global City 1634 Metro Manila, Philippines Tel. No.: (632) 988-6088 Fax No.: (632) 988-6000
Partners Avelino J. Cruz, Jr. Simeon V. Marcelo Sylvette Y. Tankiang Alejandro Alfonso E. Navarro Augusto A. San Pedro, Jr. Susan D. Villanueva Rodel A. Cruz Aida Araceli G. Roxas-Rivera Miguel U. Silos Rosa Michele C. Bagtas Franchette M. Acosta Pancho G. Umali
F. Arthur L. Villaraza Raoul R. Angangco Bienvenido I. Somera, Jr. Joe Nathan P. Tenefrancia Manuel L. Manaligod, Jr. Patricia A. O. Bunye Thea T. Daep John Jerico L. Balisnomo Elmar B. Galacio Divina Gracia E. Pedron Victor E. M. Pangilinan
Senior Associates Jean Jacquelyn A. De Castro Rogelio D. Torres, Jr. Joseph Anthony P. Lopez Leonardo A. Singson Ramon Manolo A. Alcasabas
Kristoffer James E. Purisima Rowanie A. Nakan Ruth Nichole R. Ureta Charles Edward M. Cheng Rene Raphael A. Guina
Associates Khristine C. Dy Leah Glenda J. Quesada Juanito L. Sa単osa, Jr. Jacques S. Lynn Oliver P. Baclay, Jr. Michael Angelo O. Lopez Mark Francis P. Abaya Shaina Anella B. Ramirez Maria Concepcion P. Simundac Jesus Nathaniel B. Gonzales Jerome D. Canlas Dee A. Arce単o Vivien Leigh S. Rodulfo Michico Rizza G. Oi Romina R. Bernardo Katrina Marie C. Francisco-Lao Alpheus D. Macalalad Criselda S. Santiago John Paul C. Fadrigo Norvin Ralph S. Jalipa
Raymond G. Pasiliao Fritzzie Lyn F. Espa単ol Davidson Rich L. Sih Julius Gregory B. Delgado Kristin Charisse C. Siao Jon Anton Daryl Y. Chua Bernard Joseph B. Malibiran Jason B. De Guzman Amethyst L. Dulig Joseph R. Migri単o Anna Carmi R. Calsado Bernice C. Mendoza Maria Vinina Bonita A. Padilla Mark Anthony T. Amurao Don G. Villanueva James Daniel S. Donato Sheryl Anne S. Molera Maria Theresa M. Domingo Fernand Joseph D. Miranda Ricardo P. Bernabe III
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Sassja Cucueco
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Bong Somera
ALUMNI EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Klara Bilbao
MANAGING EDITOR
Gelo Bilbao
ART DIRECTOR
Angeli Villaraza
Abigail Bautista
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Lani Gomez-Somera EDITORIAL CONSULTANT
Chitong Rivera Bert Mendoza Bong Somera Rico Domingo
UP MBT Managers
TIME OUT
PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHER LAYOUT ARTIST
UP Alumni Association, Inc. PUBLISHER
fb.com/maroonpridemagazine
y involvement as a manager of the UP Maroons Basketball Team was born from a tragic incident, the untimely demise of J Castro. J was a law classmate, fraternity brod, teammate in various basketball teams, simply put - a very good friend. As a teammate he was the quintessential point guard who made others, like me, look good thru his masterful playmaking skills. He often assisted me in the post for a turn-around jump shot or a drive to the hoop. This time around he passed on to me his post as manager of the UP Maroons, to continue his unflagging efforts to make the team competitive once again for the Final Four of the UAAP, and have a shot at the crown. J’s dream lives on. There is truth in the adage “a sound mind in a sound body.“ The sports program of a university is one of the gauges for determining the completeness of a school as an institute of learning. It has become a consideration for new high school graduates in choosing the college they would want to enter. Universities that are perennial champions in the UAAP league enjoy an edge over the others. Going by the over-all performance of UP in the UAAP games, there is no doubt that attention has to be given to its sports program. It is in this mindset that I thought of coming out with a magazine that will showcase the different varsity athletes and varsity teams. It was an idea inspired by my association with my high school alumni - in one of the reunions I got to talk to a fellow high school alumnus who published a magazine that featured alumni of another university. By adapting the idea for the development of UP’s sports program I thought that I could catch the attention of the UP community by featuring the athletes and get the much needed support to improve the quality of their training and attract the best recruits. Thus, the birth of MAROON PRIDE. The maiden issue of MAROON PRIDE features the men’s basketball team, basketball being the kick-off event of the UAAP season. We look forward to featuring the other varsity teams in the next issues that are scheduled for release every quarter. Let us wear our colors and see you in the games! Bong Somera
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aroon Pride would not have been possible without the ideas of our UP MBT Managers: Chitong Rivera, Bert Mendoza, Bong Somera, and Rico Domingo; and our Ninongs and Ninangs who have, from the very start, provided the utmost help that we needed. It is through their tireless and generous efforts that we have come up with a flourishing magazine. We would also like to thank the following for their perpetual support not only for the success of this publication, but also for their kindheartedness: President Alfredo Pascual and Chancellor Caesar Saloma, for their awe-inspiring messages; the UPAA staff, for motivating us to do our best and for providing us a place to work; Ms. Elna Divino, for constantly guiding us; Rey Madrid for his suggestions; Coach Ricky Dandan and his most welcoming staff and players; Ronnie Magsanoc, Bob Noriega, and Joey Mendoza for sparing us their time and giving us encouragement; Angeli Villaraza, Abigail Bautista, Jenny Perdigon and Jaypee Lao, Karen Castro and Chito Avecilla, for their contributions. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my staff, for never giving up. Lastly, for you, yes, you, for reading the first issue of Maroon Pride. Mabuhay ang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas! Mabuhay tayong lahat! Sassja Cucueco
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T R U O C E R
FO M
y warmest congratulations to the UP Alumni Association and the UP Men’s Basketball Team for the launching of the publication called Maroon Pride. This magazine showcases the achievements and efforts of our men’s basketball varsity team as it prepares for the upcoming season to take the championship title in the UAAP men’s basketball team again. The new publication also features the generous support given to the team by the UP alumni. The road toward the championship is always long and arduous. However, it is a road well-paved with the hard work and determination of the individual members of the UP men’s basketball team, and the camaraderie and team spirit of the entire team itself; the exhaustive training and discipline instilled by our coaching staff, the commitment and patience of our team players’ parents, and the tireless and generous efforts of the UPAA, through UP Regent Chitong Rivera, Rico Domingo, Bert Mendoza and Bong Somera, and the Board of Directors. Because of this, what we now have is a stronger, more cohesive team composed of talented, intelligent players and an excellent coaching staff—a team ready to take the next steps toward attaining the championship.
I exhort our entire UP Community to show our support to the UP athletes and varsity teams, including our UP Men’s Basketball Team. In so many ways, our athletes and coaching staff best embody that intangible quality we call the UP Spirit; the drive to succeed against all odds combined with the willingness to work hard and to work smart; the commitment to excellence, honor and integrity no matter the endeavor; and the burning desire to give one’s all in the service of something greater than we are—for the team, for the University, and for the people. With all that the UPMBT players and coaching staff, as well as the UPAA, have given up and worked for, there can be no doubt that UP is well on its way to victory. Mabuhay ang UP Men’s Basketball Team! Mabuhay ang mga atleta ng UP! Mabuhay ang UPAA! Mabuhay tayong lahat!
The University has always taken pride in the outstanding achievements of all its athletes and sports teams. Hence, my administration is fully committed to supporting the UP athletes and the UP sports program in general, a commitment founded in our Charter mandate to promote physical education, uphold excellence in sports activities, and cultivate pride, self-discipline and teamwork. This, we are doing by seeking funds to rehabilitate and develop the sports-related infrastructure in the various constituent units, and by actively campaigning for donations and assistance for our sports programs from generous UP alumni, friends and partners in government and in the private sector.
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ALFREDO E. PASCUAL President
I
am pleased to congratulate the UP Men’s Basketball Team for taking on the challenge of reinvention. With the help of the UP Alumni Association, the UPMBT began recreating itself last year. I hope, dear players, that the innovations introduced by your coaches, managers, and sponsors will contribute much to your physical learning as an aid to your total educational development. The achievements that our present civilization enjoys today are built on the foundations of Ancient Greece and Rome. Their educational systems balanced intellectual activity with physical exercise. Indeed, there is merit in developing the body along with the mind. Studies similar to those initiated by Arthur Kramer of the University of Illinois in 2006 have given evidence of the strong, causal relationship between physical exercise and mental fitness. A 2007 study made in Columbia University in New York shows that the hippocampus of those who exercise receive twice the amount of blood supply, increasing the production of new neurons and aiding in neurogenesis. These studies are relatively new but they reveal what the Greeks and the Romans, our intellectual ancestors, took for granted two thousand years ago—real education is holistic. Though we live in a more technologically advanced age, it is not necessarily a more enlightened one. Governments continue to place military spending at the top of their annual budgets instead of allocating greater subsidies to education and to the corollary area of scientific research and development. In our country, the state has deemed necessary to cut educational funding. We ourselves have suffered a 20.11% slash from our own funds.
young men wearing their colors, competing under their names, serve as their commercial models. As students tout school spirits, brands get sold. In a commercial arena, the most bought merchandise is the one with the most trimmings. What I can say to you is: we are not merely our modes of production. We are a collection of 206 bones, 604 muscles, 10 organ systems, and 100 billion neurons. I want you to keep in mind that the body is an instrument that needs to be fine-tuned through physical exertion. It is your primary vessel to experience things, to learn things. When you go out to play on the hardwood floor during the season, I’d like you to remember the constants: that the players opposing you are made up of the same biological components as I listed above, and that you are playing on a standard court of 70 to 94 feet long by 40 to 50 feet wide. Your rival teams may come from financially superior colleges and universities, but remember that you are from the University of the Philippines. You belong to the best of today’s youth. Your opponents will come at you with their utmost as sportsmen, and you will be more than their equals, and will surpass them. But in the midst of the competition, do not forget that you are also students, that a court is also just another classroom. I know that victory is always the ideal outcome of any competition, but everything is only a hypothesis until the tests are concluded. At the beginning, you can never know about the income, but know that you will constantly learn. Constantly calibrate your game as you play. Treat it as an experiment. And I believe that favorable conditions will not be far behind.
This segmentation of education obviously moves resources away from essential areas like the arts and sports education. Where imbalance results from the lack of government assistance, civil society has provided support. Our gratitude goes to the generous groups and individuals who believe in you and the UP school spirit. However, school spirit and sponsorship together often lead to commercialization. Basketball games are devoured by the masses as a form of entertainment. Private universities invest heavily in their teams because the games are televised. The
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CAESAR A. SALOMA Chancellor
See how Philex Mining builds communities Our camp in Padcal has grown into a thriving, self-sufficient community highly regarded around the world. We launched livelihood programs where miners and their families acquire valuable skills such as coffee farming, livestock raising, aquaculture, honeybee keeping and loom weaving among others. Through our Social Development and Management Programs (SDMP) for our host communities, we have built one general hospital, four clinics and 16 school buildings for the benefit of over 15,000 residents from 5 barangays. With these initiatives, opportunities for a brighter future are within the residents’ reach.
PHILEX MINING C O R P O R AT I O N There’s life in mining.
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by gelo b. “Though 26 years have passed, the championship is still fresh in our minds because it is the only championship UP ever had.” It was a common response from the members of the 1986 Fighting Maroons when asked about UP’s first Championship. “Going back to that time, napakasarap isipin until now, because we are the champion team,” former Maroon Joey Mendoza reminisces.
Salvaterra, Joey Mendoza, Joey Guanio, Ramil Cruz, Bobby Noriega, Rey Madrid, and Cris Somera, to name a few. One common goal propelled them then – to win. Spearheaded by coaching sensation Joe Lipa, the Maroons played each game with pride and proved that UP was not only the best in academics but in sports as well. Another motivation of the team was the rumor that the 1986 season would be the last coaching year for Joe Lipa. “Win or Lose, sabi The mighty UP Maroons worked as a cohesive unit niya ayaw na niya,” recalled Bobby Noriega. The to gain the UAAP crown. Before the 1986 title, the 1986 Maroons wanted to give coach Joe and the Maroons were consistent contenders. In 1982, the graduating players a despedida gift, and they did it Maroons made it to the finals but lost to the UE Red in the most striking fashion by winning the UAAP Warriors. The year after, the Maroons faced the FEU crown. Tamaraws for the title but unfortunately lost again. The Maroons started gaining the support of the UP Hunger and Pride in Winning were key to the success community during the two finals appearances. And of the Maroons. Bobby Noriega remembers, “Kahit in 1986, the Maroons made the whole UP proud sa practice, wala kang makikitang magpapatalo, when they won their first ever UAAP Basketball lahat gagawin niyan para manalo at yun yung Championship. nadadala namin sa laro para manalo. We fight for The proud warriors of the 1986 team were Benjie playing time, we fight for the rotation. But kung Paras, Ronnie Magsanoc, Eric Altamirano, Dwayne hindi kami mapasok it was fine with us. The team
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aspect was the focus. Winning attitude and winning tradition were with us. We really wanted to win.” “There is no other formula to winning”, Joey Mendoza put it succinctly. A former Fighting Maroon standout, Ronnie Magsanoc, played for PBA champion teams Shell and Sta. Lucia Realtors, and is presently head coach of the San Beda Red Lions and an assistant coach of the Meralco Bolts. He was asked about his formula for success, “Different folks, different strokes, the only components that I believe that will work are hard work, sacrifice, discipline and of course, faith in God. Different people will find different ways to face obstacles, different people will find different ways to handle challenges, and different people will react to different situations. I’m a believer that 90 percent of all the things that you face everyday are the things you’re not in control of, the only thing that you have control of is how you react to the situation, that is my foundation. Things that I’m not in control of, I let go. Things that I’m in control of, I handle. Therefore, the road to success is totally different for you, for me, for him, and for her. Kasi iba iba ang patakaran niyan, iba iba yung mga pamantayan niyan. So ayun lang ang sa akin, components lang: discipline, hard work, sacrifice, and faith in God. Yun lang ang baseline ko and then the rest will stand up when nothing else works.” He also added that the 1986 Maroons were not all about Mr. Paras, nor Mr. Altamirano, Mr. Guano, and Mr. Magsanoc. “It was about the whole team being able to get to the top. It was a struggle but eventually the team made it to
the top.” The former Maroon was asked for a word that depicts Joe Lipa as a Coach, and he stated, “Visionary. Because he was the only one who was able to envision what it takes to get to the top.” When asked about the difference between the 1986 team and our present Maroons, Coach Magsanoc said, “If I can identify the differences then maybe I can also give the right answers on why we haven’t won a title since then. But what I prefer to say now instead of answering the question is that Coach Ricky Dandan and the rest of his Coaching Staff are on the right path towards building a winning program for the Maroons. Before you are able to make it to the top, you must establish many things. That’s why the program has to be pushed forward with the right recruitment and support, coming from the administration, former players, and the alumni. So many components will make up the entire program, but Coach Ricky and the rest of his coaches who were my former teammates, I think, have pushed the right button going back to what we were able to accomplish over 2 ½ decades ago. So many coaches have tried after the 1986 team, but I believe that one day, that will happen again.” “Different folks, different strokes…no sure cut formula to success…not in real life.” - Ronnie Magsanoc
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“SPILL BLOOD AND GUTS TO WIN”
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oach Frederick Dandan states his projection for this upcoming season. Coach Ricky, as everybody calls him, was appointed the new head coach of the UP Men’s Basketball Team last December 2010. A former Maroon himself, Coach Ricky understands how important it is to give your hundred and ten percent effort. MAROON PRIDE: What do you think are the strengths of your team this year? COACH RICKY: Compared to last year, we will have more depth in all positions because of the return of players who were injured from last season and the addition of some rookies. MP: What special preparations have you made for will really contribute, I would be able to spread out this upcoming season? the playing time and keep our main men fresh for the CR: We started very early this time. Medyo late kami fourth quarter. nag start dati. But after that season, last year, we began training in October. This summer, we joined MP: About Jett Manuel, winning the most improved 3 leagues: PBA D-League, player award… FilOil, and Father Martin’s; “COMPARED TO LAST CR: I was happy for him. Jett that’s to give everybody is a hard worker; he’s very the opportunity to play YEAR, WE WILL HAVE MORE young, of course. To add to because I feel that one of DEPTH BECAUSE OF THE that, he’s taking Engineering. the things we lack—our RETURN OF PLAYERS WHO His emergence, of course, players lack, especially WERE INJURED FROM LAST makes the team better. One the younger ones, is SEASON AND THE ADDITION thing I’d like to improve on the playing experience. Jett is his consistency. OF SOME ROOKIES.” So they’re getting the experience right now. MP: So in the upcoming season, what team would be the toughest to face? MP: About the key returnees: Alvin Padilla, Mikee CR: They will all be tough, of course. Ateneo will Reyes and Mark Lopez, what do you think can they definitely be there, they’re going for their 5th. NU contribute this season? is hosting this year and banking on making a run for CR: They’re veterans so like I said earlier, their the finals because their new ownership wants them return would add depth to my rotation in that spot. to do that. And then of course, La Salle has a new Last year I didn’t have much depth in that spot. So coach. From observing them in the previous season, guys like Mike Silungan and Jett Manuel, had to play La Salle’s going to be tough. Mababanggit ko na extended minutes. But hopefully this year, if they lahat eh but it’s going to be tough.
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MP: What can we do to improve the consistency of the intensity during the last quarters, as observed in the previous season? CR: The reason for that is the bench depth. Our main men play well, of course, but they cannot play for 40 minutes, they have to rest. But mostly, I feel, that we were not really used to that situation. You know, UP has been in the doldrums for more than a decade already and winning will not happen overnight. It will take really good recruits to finally realize our dream of being back in the Final Four. But this year we have a lot of seniors, I see their experience being a factor for us. And I sound like a broken record but compared to last year, mas may maipapasok tayong players and we’re trying that out, actually, here in the summer league. We are a work in progress. Blood and guts are but two of the things Coach Ricky is willing to spill. When asked what his formula for success is, he simply says that there is not just one formula for it. “We should focus first on the process of winning,” states Coach Ricky. This process includes learning how to win and doing what it takes to win. For this year, Coach Ricky only wants what is best for the team—progress, and seeing everyone has a fair share at playing. With his determination to break the winless record of the Fighting Maroons, he encourages his team to give all their effort, hard work, and heart to reclaim the winning pride.
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t’s been a long drought for the UP Fighting Maroons. 1986 was the last year the University won a crown in the UAAP. 26 years have passed since that faithful day and so now, the question remains: when will the Fighting Maroons bag its 2nd championship? It is without doubt that the Maroons should step up and take a long stride for a Final Four standing in the UAAP. Taking pride in winning and playing with dedication are the elements that the past Maroon teams lacked. A potential remedy for this predicament is provided by the team’s new coaching system. Spearheaded by Coach Ricky Dandan, the new coaching system aims to instill in its players “hating to lose”. By doing so, it aspires to erase the memory of past defeats in order to get the team back on the winning track and end up as victors in the coming championships. Coach Ricky confidently says that this year’s Maroon line-up will have more depth compared to last year’s team. The return of key players, like Mark Lopez (Captain), Mikee Reyes and Alvin Padilla, will provide fire power and dynamism in Coach Ricky Dandan’s rotation. Mark Lopez, a
defensive stopper, Mikee Reyes, a play-maker, and Alvin Padilla, a smart offensive player, will be the keys to the success of the Maroons this coming season. Joining them are key holdovers from last season Mike Silungan (Co-Captain), Jett Manuel (named as the previous season’s Most Improved Player), Mike Gamboa, Diony Hipolito, Alinko Mbah, Rob Wierzba, Julius Wong, Jelo Montecastro, Paolo Romero, and rookies such as Henry Asilum, Chris Ball, Raul Suyod, and JR Gallarza, who will help propel the team to greater heights for the upcoming season. But this young Maroon team must perform consistently and play as a cohesive unit to attain the goal of making it to the Final Four. Still, the whole UP community is hoping to bring back the glory days of 1986. We believe that playing as a team and trusting each other will be the key to victory and, hopefully, the championship. One thing’s for sure, the UP Fighting Maroons will not back down from any challenge and will fight ‘till the end. THAT’S MAROON PRIDE!
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BY GELO B.
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MARK GUARD
Mark Lopez B Sports Sciences 6’, 21 years old Birthday: July 07, 1990 What is your strength as a player? Leadership What are your goals for yourself and the team? Championship Kung hindi ka basketball player, ano ka ngayon? Businessman Define “Love”: Love is blind “Bola ka ba? Gagawin ko ang lahat para makuha ka.”
MIKE
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POINT GUARD Mike Gamboa BS Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management 5’ 6”, 23 years old Birthday: February 26, 1989 What are your strengths as a player? Passing, Defense, Scorer, Court Vision What are your recommendations for the improvement of the team? New weights room and basketball court Kung hindi ka basketball player, ano ka ngayon? Soccer player Define “Love”: Love is more a decision; less an affection.
“I’m like your Gatorade, because I can quench your thirst!”
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MIKE #21 SMALL FORWARD Mike Silungan B Physical Education 6’3”, 23 years old Birthday: May 24, 1988 What are your strengths as a player? Scoring, Shooting, Being a leader What are your recommendations for yourself and the team? Give 110% in every practice Ideal Girl: Simple Girl, Beautiful, Smart, Funny, and someone who can keep a conversation going Define “Love”: Someone who you care about more than yourself
#5 ROB GUARD Robby Wierzba B Physical Education 6’ 2”, 23 years old Birthday: June 17, 1988 What are your strengths as a player? Defense, Shooting What are your recommendations for the improvement of the team? Harder work and discipline Ideal Girl: Simple, pretty or cute, a happy girl
Special Skill/Talents: Football, Soccer, Baseball “Kung basketball ka, hindi kita kayang i-shoot. Bakit? Dahil lagi kitang mamimiss.”
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#14 HENRY POINT GUARD Henry Asilum B Sports Science 5’ 6 ½”, 16 years old Birthday: April 14, 1996 What is your strength as a player? Passing What are your goals for yourself and the team? Get the Championship crown Favorite Color: Blue Define “Love”: It’s not about texting or seeing each other everyday; it’s all about trusting her that she won’t do anything stupid when you’re not together. “Basketball player ka ba? Kumo-cross over ka kasi sa isip at puso ko.”
JELO #10 POINT GUARD Anjelo Montecastro BA Public Administration 6’1, 23 years old Birthday: March 20, 1989 What are your strengths as a player? Facilitator, set the pace of team, speed What are your recommendations for the improvement of the team? Everyone has to work harder and everyone has to sacrifice Kung hindi ka basketball player, ano ka ngayon? Honor Student, Lawyer Favorite Color: Green
Ideal Girl: Great personality, nice smile, mestiza
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MIKEE #9 POINT GUARD Mikee Reyes B Sports Science 5’9, 21 years old Birthday: October 30, 1990 What is your strength as a player? Speed What are your goals for yourself and the team? To contribute as much as I can in any aspect I can. And take it a game at a time and we’ll see what happens. Favorite Color: Red Define “Love”: Kae Madrigal
#6 JETT SHOOTING GUARD Jett Manuel BS Civil Eng’g 6’ 1 ½ “, 19 yrs. old Birthday: September 22, 1992 What are your strengths as a player? Shooting, Play making What are your goals for yourself and the team? To play better this year compared with last year and to have more wins. Special Skill/ Talents: I can make a wave with my tummy. Favorite Color: Maroon! “My love for you is like my love for Basketball… It’s more than just a game.”
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#12 ALVIN SHOOTING GUARD Alvin Padilla B Sports Science 6’2”, 24 years old Birthday: January 10, 1988 What are your strengths as a player? defense, slasher, shooter What are your recommendations for yourself and the team? Mind Discipline Kung hindi ka basketball player, ano ka ngayon? Anything under the sun Favorite Color: Maroon Ideal Girl: loving and understanding
CHRIS #18 FORWARD Chris Ball B Sports Science 6’ 5”, 22 years old Birthday: January 20, 1990 What are your strengths as a player? Being a right position, at right time, and have high basketball I.Q. What are your recommendations for the improvement of the team? Improve on help defense, stop making excuses, and be more unselfish Kung hindi ka basketball player, ano ka ngayon? Music producer Special Skill/Talents: A good listener Favorite Color: Black, Grey and Blue
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JR
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FORWARD JR Gallarza BEEd Teaching in the Early Grades 6’ 5”, 20 years old Birthday: May 05, 1992 What are you strengths as a player? I believe I work hard and stay positive throughout any situation. What are your goals for yourself and the team? Do anything to help contribute to a win for UP Diliman. Kung hindi ka basketball player, ano ka ngayon? A student back in Canada. Ideal girl: A ‘real’ girl that’s down to earth, someone that I would be proud to introduce to mommy and dad.
#8 DIONY FORWARD Diony Hipolito BS Tourism Graduate 6’ 2”, 23 years old Birthday: January 01, 1989 What are your strengths as a player? Hustle, Defense, Rebounds What are your recommendations for the improvement of the team? Be disciplined in every aspect of the game. Special Skill/Talents: Playing instruments, musical instruments like guitar, drums, and violin
Kung hindi ka basketball player, ano ka ngayon? I’d be working and be volunteering part time with different organizations, preferably church related organizations. “U.P. ka ba? Because you’re worth fighting for.”
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#20 JULS FORWARD Julius Wong B Sports Science 6’3”, 23 years old Birthday: April 28, 1989 What are your strengths as a player? Defender and shooter What are your goals for yourself and the team? To help the team to win in any possible way and aiming for final four Special Skill/ Talents: I played three different UAAP sports (UP Team) volleyball, track & field, and basketball Ideal Girl: Have a cute eyes, terrific smile and small but intelligent “You’re like basketball, because I’m a basketball player and in my situation, you’re my life”
PAO
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POWER FORWARD Paolo Romero B Sports Science 6’ 3”, 18 years old Birthday: November 03, 1993 What is your strength as a player? Discipline What are your goals for yourself and the team? Perform better than last year and win more games Define “Love”: Love is a feeling that has no definite meaning Special Skill/Talents: Card Magic Favorite Color: Blue
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ALINKO #7 CENTER Ipeanyi Mbah B Sports Science 6’ 8”, 22 years old Birthday: February 2, 1990 What are your strengths as a player? Ball handle and speed What are your recommendations for the improvement of the team? Keep working on the right part Kung hindi ka basketball player, ano ka ngayon? Comedian Special Skill/Talents: Cooking “Are you my goal? Because I want to make it.”
#13 RAUL CENTER Raul Soyud B Physical Education 6’ 4”, 21 years old Birthday: January 09, 1991 What are your strengths as a player? Offense and defense What are your goals for yourself and the team? To be in the final four Favorite Color: White Ideal Girl: Chinita, morena, mabait, maalaga, honest “Baseline ka ba? Kasi di kita kayang apakan eh.”
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RICKY DANDAN Head Coach
BOB NORIEGA Asst. Coach
JOLO VILLA Asst. Coach
JOEY MENDOZA Asst. Coach
MARK DANDAN Asst. Coach
ROMUALDO DIZER Head Trainer
VIC BARTOLOME Team Referee
JAY FUTALAN Supporting Staff
PAUL LIBO-ON Supporting Staff
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Remembering by Lani Gomez-Somera
“Wow he’s my best friend, of course. We’ve been thru so many trials over the years, and we’ve known each other for so long that he would probably die for me and vise versa.” – Bert Mendoza, Co-Manager
He was gone too soon. On March 19, 2011, the Fighting Maroons lost one of their staunchest supporters. J Conrado P. Castro, despite all the other roles he played husband, father, lawyer, friend - gave his all to the UP Men’s Basketball Team as one of its managers. He was relentless in soliciting financial support, and unstinting in giving of himself, and many know that the last night of his life was spent seeking support for the team he loved fiercely. The passion he had for his family, fraternity, career, alma mater - for life itself - endeared him to many who looked to him for leadership tempered with patience. The Fighting Maroons were not the only beneficiaries of this characteristic style. He made a difference, not only to the team and its coaching staff, but also to the UP Alumni Association, the Sigma Rho Fraternity, UP Law Class of 1985, the Philippine Bar Association, and, of course, the Judicial and Bar Council, to name a few of the organizations he was part of. Manong J embodied the fighting spirit that the Maroons need to excel. And every step forward that the team takes, every game intensely played, and every victory won, will be a testament to the man and his vision. He was gone too soon but J will always be remembered.
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By sassja c
T
he UP Fighting Maroons have been living in the shadow of their alma mater’s century-old stardom in the academe. This year, however, the light is on the team, and on the pulse that keeps it going.
Fueling this year’s Maroons is a team of dedicated players, a success-driven coaching staff, and a strong battalion of supporters. Much of the renewed drive of the team is attributable to its management that is dedicated to the advocacy of promoting the University of the Philippines not only as a great academic institution but also as a pillar of sports development in the country. During the 2008 UP Centennial, UP Alumni Association President Chitong Rivera, together with alumni, and basketball fanatics, J Castro and Bert Mendoza, vowed to transform the Maroons from a regular team to an exponent of sports in the UAAP. They launched a program that gives opportunities for the Maroons to excel through linkages with patrons such as Senator Manny Villar and Smart Telecom founder Doy Vea, and business entities like FilOil, Kenny Rogers, Handyman and Meralco. Potential sponsors were invited to lend a helping hand through the annual Sponsors Night. Through the magnanimous help extended by these benefactors, the Maroons were able to train in the United States and participate in other competitive leagues in preparation for the UAAP season, incentives for them to hone their skills on the hardcourt. With the addition of alumni Bong Somera and Rico Domingo as managers of the Maroons, the program continues to expand. Focus has been given to the recruitment of deserving students with special basketball skills. The UPIS (High School) Varsity Basketball Team has also been included in the fold to establish it as a feeder team that will assure the Fighting Maroons of a source of well-trained recruits. The unwavering support enjoyed by the U.P. Men’s Basketball Team from the alumni of the University, complemented by the dedicated management of the Maroons, is a winning formula anticipated to steer the Maroons on the road to success.
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NINONGS & NINANGS Robina Gokongwei-Pe President and COO Robinsons Retail Group
Robinsons Retail Group is composed of 10 formats and 15 brands, including Handyman and Robinsons Supermarket. AB Economics (undergraduate) 1978-1981 University of the Philippines – Diliman AB Journalism  (graduated in 1984) New York University Member, 2008 UP Centennial Commission Married to lawyer Perry Pe, with two children.
A
velino J. Cruz is a founding partner of Villaraza Cruz Marcelo & Angangco (CVCLAW). He specializes in corporate & commercial law, strategic and developmental projects, corporate litigation and rehabilitation, and administrative law. He graduated cum laude and salutatorian from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 1977 and placed 7th in the Bar Examinations.
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NINONGS & NINANGS
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velino J. Cruz is a founding partner of Villaraza Cruz Marcelo & Angangco (CVCLAW). He specializes in corporate & commercial law, strategic and developmental projects, corporate litigation and rehabilitation, and administrative law. He graduated cum laude and salutatorian from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 1977 and placed 7th in the Bar Examinations.
R
aul A. Daza is the Deputy Speaker of the 15th Congress of the House of Representatives. He is also the Regional President for Region VIII in Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines. He graduated from the University of the East with a degree in Business Administration; and from the University of the Philippines with a degree in Law. He attained 11th place in the 1957 Bar Examinations.
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amon S. Esguerra is the Managing Partner of the Esguerra and Blanco Law Offices, and the Chairman of the Intellectual Property Association of the Philippines. He is a Bachelor of Laws graduate of the University of the Philippines, 1979, and is now a lecturer of the UP Law Center.
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NINONGS & NINANGS
D
avid L. Kho is a House Member of the 15th Congress -- Senior Citizens Party-list. In addition, he is the Director/Legal Counsel of the Phil. Chamber of Commerce & Industry Quezon City Chapter. He graduated from the University of the Philippines with a degree in Business Administration.
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eynaldo C. Laserna is the Founder and President of the Athenaeum Educators Inc. and currently the Chairman of the UPSILON SIGMA PHI Alumni. In 1965 he graduated from the University of the Philippines with a degree in Business Administration.
F
ernando B. Malveda is the President and Chairman of the Board of LEADS Agricultural Products Corporation, President and CEO of LEADS Environmental Health Products Corporation. In 1977, he finished his educational requirements for BS Sugar Technology from the University of the Philippines, Los Ba単os.
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NINONGS & NINANGS
J
acinto Caesar S. Puno is the Founder/ Managing Partner of TBWA\Santiago Mangada Puno Advertising Agency, one of the leading and most creative advertising agencies in the Philippines, being a 4-time Agency of the Year awardee (2003-05, 2010). It is part of the Omnicom Group, the largest agency network in the world. In 1968 he graduated from the University of the Philippines with a degree in Economics.
S
tephanie V. Gomez-Somera is a private practitioner specializing in commercial law. She is a graduate of the University of the Philippines with degrees in Political Science (magna cum laude) and Law. She teaches Credit Transactions at the College of Law of the University of the Philippines and is the author of the 2-volume U.P. Law Centennial Textbook “Credit Transactions: Notes and Cases.�
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ichael T. Toledo is the Senior Vice President for Corporate Affairs of Philex Mining Corporation after having worked as a corporate, litigation, labor and criminal lawyer with the top law firms in the country, such as the Angara Concepcion Cruz Regala and Abello Law Offices (ACCRA Law). He earned his Master of Laws degree (Public International Law) at the London School of Economics and Political Science as a British Government scholar, and holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines.
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NINONGS & NINANGS
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ntonio Z. Bucoy is the current managing partner of Bucoy Poblador & Associates. He graduated from the University of the Philippines, with degrees in Political Science, 1980, and Law, 1984. Mr. Bucoy, a former professor of the JRU College of Law, is a corporate secretary to various corporations and foundations, and a personal counselor to prominent heads of industry and government officials.
ugusto S. San Pedro is a founding partner of Platon Martinez Flores San Pedro Lea単o and specializes in Industrial and Intellectual Property Law and Utilities. He graduated from the University of the Philippines with degrees in Law, 1957, and Business Administration, 1963.
E
dgar Ariel L. Recto practices law in New York, New York, specializing in Criminal Defense. He also handles immigration, divorce and collection. He graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 1985 and is a member of the New York Bar.
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rnestine Carmen Villareal-Fernando is currently the director of Country Bankers Life Insurance Corp. She specializes in Labor (including Strikes and Collective Bargaining Agreements), Litigation, Product Liability, Corporate Law, Due Diligence, Property and Contract Law on Books and Art. She graduated from the University of the Philippines with degrees in Economics and Law.
M
aret Follosco-Bautista graduated BS Business Economics from the University of the Philippines, 1982
J
un Bautista graduated AB Economics from the University of the Philippines, 1982
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M
arcelo C. Fernando, Jr. is Country Treasurer and Global Markets Head for Citibank Philippines. Concurrently, he serves as Cluster Head for Global Markets for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. He obtained his Masters in Business Management degree (with distinction) from the Asian Institute of Management, and graduated cum laude from the University of the Philippines with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. Arcus is married to Atty. Ernestine D. Villareal Fernando and they have two sons.
NINONGS & NINANGS
J
J
ose A. Barcelon is the Senior Vice President and Head of the Legal Services Group of United Coconut Planters Bank. He was also a former Special Legislative Officer at the Senate of the Philippines. He earned his Bachelor of Laws and his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of the Philippines, Diliman
ose Perpetuo M. Lotilla heads the DOTC Legal Service and currently incharge of the Civil Aviation Sector of the Department. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts, Major in Economics from the Ateneo de Manila University and his Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines. He is currently the Vice President of the Philippine Bar Association.
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R
odel A. Cruz is a Senior Partner in the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Department of Villaraza Cruz Marcelo and Angangco Law Office (CVCLAW), specializing in commercial & corporate litigation, insolvency and corporate rehabilitation, regulatory enforcement, election cases, and the prosecution and defense of white-collar crimes. He earned his Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines in 1992 and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy (cum laude) from the same university.
ictor P. Lazatin is a Senior Partner in Litigation and Dispute Resolution of the Angara Concepcion Cruz Regala and Abello Law Offices (ACCRA Law). He is heavily involved in civil and commercial litigation, and construction and arbitration law. He has authored: “Handbook on Commercial Arbitration” and “Private Construction Disputes and Arbitration” published by the Construc tion Industry Arbitration Commission (CIAC). He earned his Economics and Law (cum laude) degrees from the University of the Philippines.
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E
duardo U. Escueta is a Commissioner, Vice Chairman and Executive Officer of the National Police Commission. He is married to Elvira Penabella Escueta, and is father to Mark Edward, Carisse, Jed Ernest, and John Joseph. He graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 1972.
CARAG, JAMORA & SOMERA & VILLAREAL LAW OFFICES 2nd Floor, The Plaza Royale, 120 L.P. Leviste (ormerly Alfaro) Street Salcedo Village, Makati City Tel. Nos. (632) 812-52-46; 812-52-47 and 812-52-48 893-97-18; 893-97-19; 893-97-20 and 893-97-21 e-mail address: mail@ccjslaw.com
ELPIDIO C. JAMORA, JR. BENJAMIN A. SOMERA, JR. MARIA TRINIDAD P. VILLAREAL REYNALDO D. GONZALES
Commi%ed to crea-ng clean and efficient environment systems for customers
TAIKISHA PHILIPPINES INC. DESIGN, ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION FOR FACILITIES
“CUSTOMERS FIRST!”
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University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 75 – Men’s Basketball Tournament 1st Round Schedule as of July 6, 2012 Host: National University Day
Match 1 2
Light NU UST
Result -
Dark UE FEU
Time 2:00pm 4:00pm
Day
Date
Venue
Sat
14-Jul-12
MOA Arena
2
3 4
DLSU AdU
-
UP ADMU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Sun
15-Jul-12
MOA Arena
3
5 6
ADMU UE
-
UST DLSU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Thu
19-Jul-12
Araneta Coliseum
4
7 8
UE UP
-
AdU UST
2:00pm 4:00pm
Sat
21-Jul-12
MOA Arena
5
9 10
FEU ADMU
-
DLSU NU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Sun
22-Jul-12
MOA Arena
6
11 12
UP AdU
-
NU FEU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Thu
26-Jul-12
Araneta Coliseum
7
13 14
UST DLSU
-
NU ADMU
11:00am 4:00pm
8
15 16
FEU UP
-
UE AdU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Sun
29-Jul-12
MOA Arena
9
17 18
ADMU NU
-
UP FEU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Thu
2-Aug-12
Araneta Coliseum
10
19 20
UST UE
-
DLSU ADMU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Sat
4-Aug-12
MOA Arena
11
21 22
FEU AdU
-
UP NU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Sun
5-Aug-12
MOA Arena
12
23 24
DLSU UE
-
AdU UST
2:00pm 4:00pm
Wed
8-Aug-12
Araneta Coliseum
13
25 26
UST NU
-
AdU DLSU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Sat
11-Aug-12
PSC-Ultra
14
27 28
UP ADMU
-
UE FEU
2:00pm 4:00pm
Sun
12-Aug-12
Araneta Coliseum
1
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Sat
28-Jul-12
MOA Arena
Law Firm of
R. V. DOMINGO Also of the Bar of New York
& ASSOCIATES Attorneys and Counsellors-At-Law
Patent, Trademark, Copyright and Trade Secret Law; Entertainment, Arts and Sports Law; Corporation and Business Law; International Law; Trade Policy Law; Media Law; Hospitality Industry Law; Banking and Securities Law; Finance; Foreign Investment Law; Cyberspace and ECommerce Law; International Business Transactions; Taxation; Franchising; Technology Transfer; Natural Resources, Energy and Environmental Law; Science and Technology Law; Real Property, Probate and Trust Law; Immigration and Naturalization; Air Transportation Law; Tort and Insurance; Construction Law; Maritime Law; Transportation and Communications Law; Labor and Employment; Commercial, Civil, Administrative and Criminal Litigation and Dispute Resolution; Competitive/Business Intelligence
Of Counsel Jose C. Campos, Jr.
(1923-2005) Former Supreme Court Associate Justice
Maria Clara L. Campos (1924-2011) Professor Emeritus
RVD Business Intelligence Consultancy, Inc. An integral unit of R.V. Domingo & Associates Founded in 1993, RVD Business Intelligence Consultancy, Inc. (RVDBic) is a pioneering competitive/business intelligence consultancy firm in the Philippines with an extensive experience across a wide range of business and intelligence services including the following:
• • • • • • •
Brand and Intellectual Property Rights Protection; Competitive/Business Intelligence Consultancy and Allied Services; Due Diligence; Risk Management; Crisis Management; Litigation Support; and Customized Investigative Services
RVD Business Intelligence Consultancy, Inc. has international strategic partnership with International Risk Ltd. with offices in Hong Kong, the People’s Republic of China, Kingdom of Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, United States, United Kingdom, Canada and other key cities in the Asia/Pacific Region. Executive Offices, 7th and 8th Floors, The Valero Tower, 122 Valero Street, Salcedo Village, 1227 Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines Telephones: (632) 810-8266; (632) 818-5503 l Facsimile: (632) 815-2485 E-mail: rvdlaw@pldtdsl.net / rvdlawfirm@rvdlaw.com l Website: http://www.rvdlaw.com Postal Office Address: P.O. Box 1303 Makati Central Post Office, 1253 Makati City, Philippines
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UP ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Ang Bahay ng Alumni Magsaysay Avenue, UP Campus, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines Tel. No. (632) 920-671, Fax No. (632) 929-8327 Email upalum@yahoo.com.ph http://www.upalumni.ph
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2012-2015 Ponciano E. Rivera, Jr. Renato B. Valdecantos Ramon M. Maronilla Fernando B. Malveda Dodie D. Lagman, Jr. Remedios L. Fernandez Milagros D. Alipit-de Guzman Wilfredo M. Caballa Roberto I. Mercado Elena V. Romero Bienvenido I. Somera, Jr. MEMBERS:
Louis C. Biraogo Pedro I. dela Cruz, Jr. Cynthia R. Mamon Oscar P. Palabyab Orlando J. Sacay Reynaldo G. Tagudando
President First Vice-President Second Vice-President Third Vice-President Secretary Assistant Secretary Treasurer Assistant Treasurer Auditor Public Relations Officer Legal Counsel
Roland S. Capito Alfredo T. Gonzalez Norberto P. Mendoza Santanina T. Rasul Ligaya L. Tankeh Victor B. Valdepe単as
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS: UP President UP Director of Alumni Relations Immediate Past UPAA President Presidents of Chapters of College, School & Institute, Alumni Associations Presidents of City, Provincial, & Foreign Alumni Association Chapters Romeo S.A. Carlos
Executive Director