Tau Alpha Gear News - October 2020

GEARNEWS MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2020 • ISSUE NO. 01

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF

CELEBRATING

88

years of

ADVENTURE

No Grander Adventure Than This

BON VOYAGE: Tau Alpha Arrives at UPLB

DR. MARLOE SUNDO

The man behind the

100-TEST BOOTHS PROJECT WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT CHARACTERISTIC OF AN ALPHAN?

TAU ALPHA FRATERNITY

TAU ALPHA INFINITY WALK

A Legacy project Another Milestone

EDITOR’S NOTE

W

e are men of stout character. We are men of truth. We are men who call each other brothers and mean it. We are Tau Alpha.”

As the fraternity continues to create new milestones, it is our duty and privilege to write the rich and continuing history of Tau Alpha.

From the legacies of our founders to the innovative projects of alumni brothers to the establishment of a new chapter in Los Banos, the honor is ours to be able to tell them to the university.

Gear News, the official publication of Tau Alpha Fraternity, is revived together with the establishment of Los Banos Chapter.

This publication includes news events, featured stories, views and

“

The quest for the golden fleece of the Tau Alpha Fraternity lives on and the journey of thousands of men in this ship of brotherhood and camaraderie will take them to a far bright future and exciting adventures.

“

opinions of the resident brothers, and the fraternity’s notable alumni.

For the past 88 years, the fraternity has set good image in the field of engineering and allied courses. Also, Tau Alpha has produced successful engineers, lawyers and doctors, and notable politicians in the country. With these achievements, Gear News has the duty to tell you all these beautiful stories of Tau Alpha.

The quest for the golden fleece of the Tau Alpha Fraternity lives on and the journey of thousands of men in this ship of brotherhood and camaraderie will take them to a far bright future and exciting adventures.

As one of the brothers, I am putting my faith to the success of the fraternity, brothers and sisters, alumni, and sponsors who made this publication possible. On behalf of the editorial staff of Gear News, I am expressing my gratitude to the members of the fraternity who gave effort and time in making this publication a success.

To you who may be reading this, join us in exploring the greatness of Tau Alpha and consider yourselves guests in the ship we are sailing.

Be part of the brotherhood and start your unforgettable journey with us!

Bon Voyage!

Contents 00

Editor’s Note Table of Contents

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News Section Tau Alpha Completes 100-Swab Booth Bon Voyage: Tau Alpha Arrives at UPLB Alphan Brod Scores Big Time Internationally UnstopaBULL: BRODeo Ride Experience Tulong TAal: Tau Alpha Reaches to Victims of Taal Eruption Tau Alpha Alumni Reunite, Mark 88th Anniversary

Tau Alpha partners with UP, Reaches Another Milestone The Celebration of the Argo’s Milestone

01 02 02 02 03 03 04 04

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Feature Section MemoraBull: A Trademark in Progress Become and Belong: Ceremony of a Lifetime Dare to Dream: A Determination to Do Good Faith in Fate

05 05 06 07

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Column Section Editorial Board Alphan Identity: A Blue Sky Fleeced with White Alphan View Alphan Legacy: Timeless Heritage Alphan Prophecy: Omen of Excelsior

08 08 08 09 09

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Literary Section Alphan Legacy: Timeless Heritage Alphan Prophecy: Omen of Excelsior

10 10

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John Rick L. Macaranas Chief Editor, Gear News 2020-2021

Archives Section Alphan Prophecy: Omen of Excelsior

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GEARNEWS MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2020 ISSUE NO. 01

NEWS

TAU ALPHA PARTNERS WITH UP, REACHES ANOTHER MILESTONE

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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF TAU ALPHA FRATERNITY

Tau Alpha celebrates the success of A Hundred-Test Booth Project at Baker Hall, UPLB.

BY JOHN RICK L. MACARANAS

Tau Alpha (TA) Fraternity marks another milestone after successfully completing the last batch of swab test booths as part of the WeHealAsOne Hundred Test Booths Project, a national CoViD-19 response.

As part of the TA response to the pandemic, University of the Philippines – Los Banos (UPLB) Chancellor Fernando Sanchez challenged the fraternity to provide enough funding for the materials of the booth to reach 100 booths, which started last April and continually donated swabbing test booths to various medical institutions and hospitals in order to lessen the gravity of the CoViD-19.

According to Chancellor Sanchez, these swabbing test booths will be of great help to the medical frontliners for it will identify and isolate active cases.

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“The swab booths will surely be appreciated by our medical frontliners, as these will facilitate their work to identify and isolate active cases of CoViD-19,” said Sanchez.

Spearheaded by UPLB University Planning and Maintenance Office (UPMO) Director and TA Senior Adviser Dr. Marloe B Sundo, the mass production of these booths came with a fair bit of challenges.

According to Dr. Sundo, production had to be fast enough to tackle the fastspreading coronavirus but also had to be of good quality to ensure the safety of the medical workers who were to use the booths.

Consequently, the first four (4) swab booths were donated to selected hospitals in Los Banos with the presence of medical directors and Chancellor Sanchez.

A Hundred-Test Booth Project is a Tau Alpha’s Project to contribute in the Covid-19 Response

The project exemplifies the willingness to respond and help in these uncertain times, during a crisis that is truly unprecedented.

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TAU ALPHA COMPLETES 100-SWAB BOOTH PROJECT

As early as June, TA marked its last batch of swab test booths and held a small turnover ceremony at UPLB Baker Hall.

In a speech, Chancellor Sanchez said that the fraternity’s willingness to respond and serve the people were portrayed in this project.

“The project exemplifies the willingness to respond and help in these uncertain times, during a crisis that is truly unprecedented,” said Sanchez.

The Tau Alpha Fraternity promised to continuously donate and contribute in the fight against COVID-19 through more donations of virucides, PPEs, and possibly, more booths.

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Tau Alpha conducts opening ceremony at Engineering Science (ES) Lobby, CEAT, UPLB to launch the arrival of the fraternity in the university.

BON VOYAGE: NEWS BITS TAU ALPHA ARRIVES AT UPLB ALPHAN BROD SCORES BIG TIME

BY AL FRANCIS V. DELOS SANTOS

From University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, the search for the golden fleece of Tau Alpha finally reaches Los Baños. As they introduced themselves as the new chapter that will be added to the rich history of the fraternity, a week-long event was organized to showcase Tau Alpha to the new sea where the Argo will sail, find people that wish to board it and join the adventure for the unending search of the golden fleece.

With a theme “Incipience: Arrival of the Argo”, Tau Alpha Fraternity finally arrived at College of Engineering and AgroIndustrial Technology (CEAT) in UP Los Baños (UPLB). It is a weeklong event that was launched last January 27-30, each day having different events for the students, college, and also for the university.

Tau Alpha held a thanksgiving mass at Diocesan Shrine of St. Therese of the Child Jesus, UPLB at 5:30 in the afternoon of the 27th of January. On the next day, the event was officially launched and offered various activities such as raffle draw, free jeepney ride, and freebies.

“Timeless: Grand Pakain and Raffle Draw” concluded the Tau Alpha Launching Week which was held at Electrical Engineering Auditorium, Friday. Tau Alpha offered free dinner to students of the university, and was attended by some alumni of the fraternity.

CEAT Dean Arnold Elepaño, in his speech, welcomed Tau Alpha in the college and the university. Afterwards, Alumni Adviser Pantaleon Tabanao expressed his gratitude to the college for welcoming the fraternity into the college. At the end of the event, winners of the raffle draw were announced. Several brothers showed their talent to the crowd as an intermission number.

The launching week entitled “Incipience: Arrival of the Argo” was spearheaded by Brod Alphonse Sambrano ’19 Charter Member. It is a mark for the college that Tau Alphans arrived and they are here to deliver.

INTERNATIONALLY

BY JOHN RICK L. MACARANAS

Mohamad Rayan M. Macadato, an incoming sophomore of BS Electrical Engineering and a Tau Alphan, has received a prestigious IsDB Scholarship.

The IsDB Scholarship Program is an international scholarship that promotes excellence in science and technology in its member countries by pursuing a partnership program with selected reputable universities worldwide.

The scholarship awards aspiring students to build the right competencies in advocating “Sustainable Science” in various related fields to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

UNSTOPABULL: BRODEO RIDE EXPERIENCE

BY LLOYD ALFRED O. ONOFRE

Tau Alpha Fraternity launched a mechanical bull ride contest as part of the UPLB February Fair’s annual celebration, with P10,000 worth of prizes given to winning participants.

Junaid Panda took first place winning P4,000, followed by Nathan Palis winning P2,000, and Matthew Hidalgo winning P1,000. The winners of 4th to 9th place each received P500.

UPLB Feb Fair was originally a protest fair expressing opposition to the tyrannical regime of the Martial Law but has developed into a festival-like celebration held every 2nd week of February.

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Tulong TA-al TAU ALPHA REACHES TO VICTIMS OF TAAL ERUPTION

BY CHRISTIAN CARLO G. ROLDAN

Tau Alpha (TA) Fraternity initiated Tulong TA-al Relief Operations as a response to the volcanic eruption of Taal Volcano last January 2020.

TA donated at least 10 sacks of rice and 25,000 PHP worth of goods courtesy of the alumni brothers, and were packed separately and distributed to the affected families.

In relation to this, the resident brothers sought for donations by placing a booth along Lopez Ave, Los Baños for five days, where passersby and willing individuals had the chance to donate goods and cash, all of which were added to the inventory of donations to be

Tau Alpha donates relief goods to the victims of Taal Volcano Eruption last January in Batangas.

distributed; moreover, a portion of the accumulated goods were allocated to UPLB University Student Council’s (USC) own donation drive.

Furthermore, former Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Mario Montejo ’70 provided two elf trucks for the goods; also, other alumni brothers provided one van and one pickup truck as additional couriers for the goods as well as the volunteers who will go on-site.

The eruption affected multiple cities and municipalities in Batangas province, as well as other provinces in CALABARZON Region, cities in Metro Manila, and some parts of central Luzon.

Furthermore, classes, work schedules, and local flights were suspended during that time since the volcano spewed ashes which affected the mentioned areas.

As a response, USC, organizations, and other groups in UPLB have had

their generous share of contributions in accumulating donations and transporting them into the affected areas.

Hence, the fraternity also took the initiative in extending its hand to the victims of the calamity as well as those who are willing to help said victims.

Meanwhile, the drop off point of the vehicles was at Lipa, Batangas, which became the center point of the distribution of goods. The resident brothers both volunteered on the USC- coordinated donation drive and the fraternity’s own. The whole operation went on for approximately 5 days.

TAU ALPHA ALUMNI REUNITE, MARK 88TH ANNIVERSARY

BY LAWRENCE ANGELO A. DE JESUS

Tau Alpha Fraternity celebrated its 88th Founding Anniversary and the launching of its new website through an online video and audio conferencing platform, on August 8.

Amidst pandemic, the brothers of Tau Alpha from around the world were reunited through its online event entitled “Alphan Brotherhood within Zoom: An Online Anniversary Celebration”.

The event started with the opening remarks of the Tau Alpha Foundation Incorporated Chairman and the major sponsor of the said event, Bert Mendoza.

In his speech, he thanked everyone who continuously supports Tau Alpha and its projects, and expects that there is more to come as the brothers continue to recruit prospects.

“This pandemic cannot limit the bonds that our fraternity has forged throughout the years. Our noble projects will continue to progress. We also recognize the support of our brothers who continuously lend their helping hands for our visions to come into

Tau Alpha marks 88th anniversary with alumni all over the world via Zoom meeting last August 08, 2020.

fruition,” said Mendoza.

The celebration proceeded with the presentation of brothers from 40’s until present, and followed by games and giveaway of raffle prizes prepared by Noel Picaso and Mike De Guzman.

It was shortly followed by the launching of the new fraternity website, spearheaded by the fraternity’s media head, Rico Ibana. He ended his presentation by stating that “the battle in the new norm begins.” The new website may be accessed through the link provided: https://www.taualpha.org/en Lastly, Executive Director Noel Picaso delivered the closing remarks for the celebration.

“Our loyalty to our fraternity, given our diversity in faith and political beliefs, has kept us united and will continue to unite us towards our common goal, as we sail to bigger and wider oceans,” stated Picaso.

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Tau Alpha partners with UP, reaches another milestone

BY JOHN RICK L. MACARANAS

University of the Philippines (UP) President Danilo Concepcion gives his speech at the Fellowship event after the Launching of tau Alpha Infinity Walk Project.

Tau Alpha Fraternity partners with University of the Philippines – Diliman in the Tau Alpha infinity Project last January 31, 2020.

Tau Alpha Fraternity and University of the Philippines (UP) officially launched the Tau Alpha Infinity Walk Project last January 31, 2020 at UP Diliman, Quezon City.

Tau Alpha Foundation Inc. (TAFI) Chairman and Engr. Norberto “Bert” Mendoza said that this is an opportunity to give back to his college alma mater and a milestone that will mark the fraternity’s 90th anniversary.

“We see it as an opportunity for two reasons. One, to give back to our UP

Naming Mahal that gave us so much and two, something to commemorate our 90th year. It was the easiest decision for us to make,” stated Engr. Mendoza.

After the speech, Legacy Project Chairman Arch. Antonio A. Turalba Sr. gave a summary of the groundbreaking project.

According to Arch. Turalba, this project was planned as early as 2017 as some members and alumni of the fraternity have been discussing about the project that will be done in their 90th year.

In 2019, UP President Danilo Concepcion offered to build walkways, connecting tunnels or bridges from the library to the administration building.

Hence, Tau Alpha saw this as an opportunity to help the university improve their facilities in line with the celebration of the 90th anniversary.

UP President Concepcion, in his speech, said that it was only logical to ask engineers to build a bridge and showed his gratitude to the fraternity.

“Napakaswerte ko bilang Pangulo dahil nataon ang pagdiriwang ng anibersaryo niyo sa termino ko. Dahil kung hindi naman kayo magdiriwang, baka wala tayong legacy project. Maswerte din kayo (the Fraternity) dahil nagkaroon kayo ng oportunidad para sa Legacy Project. At higit sa lahat, maswerte ang university para sa proyektong ito,” said UP President Concepcion.

The program was concluded by former Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Engr. Mario G. Montejo with his closing remarks, followed by the singing of the UP Naming Mahal.

THE CELEBRATION OF THE ARGO’S MILESTONE

BY JOHN RICK L. MACARANAS

After a successful groundbreaking ceremony, it was time to extend the celebration with a fellowship at the Bahay ng Alumni.

This fellowship was particularly special due to the fact that the Fraternity was celebrating the official launch of Tau Alpha Legacy Project. In attendance were the alumni brods, some of their wives, the resident brods, residents of the Tau Lambda Alpha Sorority, UP President Atty. Danilo L. Concepcion, and other guests of the Fraternity.

Conversations flowed from the details of the project to inside jokes, from stories of the alumni when they were residents to stories of the residents, etc. When night came, dinner was served while everyone enjoyed performances from Allison Tanner and more professional singers. They sang classical songs, theatrical ones, musical songs, and even modern ones.

Notable alumni with UP President Danilo Concepcion celebrate the night with fellowship gathering after the Launching of Infinity Walk Project.

As the night went on, it was time for what Engr. Florante “Tony” M. Aytona called, “GIN-geneering,” but instead of actual gin, they were wines, scotches, brandies, etc. In the true essence of the celebration that the Alphans had achieved. There would be more fellowships to come but they will never be like this one; the night where the Argo had sailed to another breakthrough, grander and greater than it had ever sailed before.

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FEATURE MemoraBULL:

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A Trademark in Progress

BY JOHN RICK L. MACARANAS

T

rademark. Tradition. Timeless. An annual university-wide event held every second month of the year reminds us of the Philippine history and why we are experiencing such “freedom” today. With a symbolic moment for all iskolar ng bayan, UPLB February Fair also showcases unique talents and a night full of stalls which everyone will find themselves enjoying and spending the best week of the semester. Some organizations are placing booths, surrounding the entire UPLB Freedom Park. Most of the booths and games are located at the sides and the center stage is located at the grounds of Freedom Park where live performances usually take place. Some organizations have created trademarks that will be remembered by students and non-students, and so as Tau Alpha.

After its launching week, Tau alpha launched its project for the fair: the mechanical bull. Headed by Miguel Emmanuel Valles, the mechanical bull has created a solid image among the students and even outsiders. With the fraternity offering cash prizes to winning participants, Tau Alpha also created a trademark that will be remembered by students. Three lucky winners were given cash prizes worth ten thousand pesos (10,000 PHP); but more than giving cash prizes, the smiles on every participant portray their willingness to relieve their academic stress and pressure even for just a week.

A trademark was set by the fraternity and a great impression was left on every student who went to the fair. But most importantly, Tau Alpha’s main goal to serve as a “scapegoat” from everyone’s personal, mental, and academic problems was achieved. The annual event giving us a roller-coaster ride for an entire week is much appreciated; thus, the fraternity swears to contribute by bringing excitement and challenges every year.

Become

and Belong:

Ceremony of a Lifetime

BY CARL JOSHUA J. CAGUIOA

Whether an organization or a fraternity/sorority, a ceremony to welcome its new members is conducted. Like any other groups that need to nurture the organization they are in, this event somehow starts a lifelong journey among its members. For individuals joining a certain group of people with diverse backgrounds and unique personalities, a brotherhood of this kind is a lifetime commitment.

A two-day set of activities were prepared for both the Diliman and Los Baños brothers on January 11-12, 2020.

The goal of the said activities was more of a bonding moment for the resident brothers, that they may be more familiar with each other. Party games related to engineering, quizzes, and seminars were made to develop the newly inducted Los Baños brothers on how they should act as a formally accepted Alphan.

As a formal initiation and solidified proof of membership of the charter members of the Los Baños chapter, they all had their hair fully shaved to symbolize their rebirth into an Argonaut ready for adventure.

With this came the visitation of the alumni brothers to check on their residents so they may be able to meet the Los Baños brothers. They all happily dined a feast for lunch as they got to know each other better through stories and anecdotes about their ventures thus far as brothers. Memories were created, bonds were strengthened, and brotherhood was unforgettably shown throughout the event.

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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF TAU ALPHA FRATERNITY

Dare to Dream:

A Determination to Do Good

BY MARTIN JOSEPH R. SUNDO

Becoming an engineer really meant a lot for Dr. Marloe B. Sundo. Born as the second child among six of a farmer and a teacher in the remote municipality of Aurora in Zamboanga del Sur, life was not particularly easy growing up. Determined to make life easier for himself and his family, he studied hard and eventually accomplished his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at the University of San Recoletos, Cebu City. He then proceeded to review for the CE Boards to get his license. Needless to say, he passed and went on to become a resident engineer at the Department of Public Works and Highways for 2 years. After this, he became an assistant construction manager for H.S. Oaminal Construction. He did not feel like doing such work suited him, however. There was a desire within him to emulate his mother as well. He wanted to become a teacher. One day, an opportunity to teach at the newly formed Department of Civil Engineering in the University of the Philippines Los Baños came to him. This was the moment he was waiting for, and he pounced at this chance.

Little did he know that this would be the start of his illustrious career in the University.

Fast forward to the year 2020 where he starts off the year by being awarded the UPLB CEAT 2020 Outstanding Senior Faculty Award for his exemplary conduct in teaching, research, and extension activities over his many years in the University. While this is certainly a good way to start off the year, the COVID-19 pandemic brewed abroad and soon it spread into the country. Dr. Sundo then became a part of the UPLB COVID-19 Response Team under the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF). Besides his official work with the IATF, he also contributed to the fight against COVID-19 through producing a prototype swabbing booth with his team in the University Planning and Maintenance Office. This would soon turn into a bigger project that involved the University and his fraternity. Their cooperation then produced over 100 booths all of which were delivered in various parts of Luzon. Other major works include the production of different protective and disinfectant devices to augment the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPEs) for the medical workers. These include disinfection tents, isolation tents, office shields, and maternity protective shields. His most recent contribution to the fight against COVID-19 was his involvement in the creation and subsequent certification of the world class biosafety level 2 UPLB COVID-19 Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory (UPLB CMDL) The laboratory will service the needs of the province of Laguna and its neighboring provinces.

The problems created by the pandemic won’t go away anytime soon, but rest assured, he will continue to do whatever he can to help the University and the community.

We are the men bette Of the Tau Al

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Faith in Fate

BY JOHN RICK L. MACARANAS

Tau Alpha Fraternity, one of the oldest Greek-lettered fraternities in Southeast Asian Region, has established a high-class image for the past 88 years. Exclusive as it is, the organization has also produced respected engineers, business leaders, and politicians who also contributed to the success of their respective field of careers. Tau Alpha treasures a long history of brotherhood and camaraderie among the members. Leaders who were honed and shaped by this organization extends its professional services not just in the country but all over the world. Fraternity’s own tradition of honor and excellence has always been carried out in all parts of the world.

The ever-growing family of Tau Alpha Fraternity has been extended from different regions of the world: Tau Alpha Overseas West (TAOW) and Tau Alpha East (TA East) in the USA and Canada, and Tau Alpha Down Under (Australia).

Tau Alpha Overseas West (TAOW) is one of the overseas chapters of Tau Alpha where members reside in the western part of the USA and Canada. The members believed that TA members are committed to its ultimate goal and should carry out the values of the fraternity throughout their lifelong journey.

Tau Alpha East, meanwhile, is another chapter where members reside in the east coast of the USA and Canada. The members gather to have a get-together and “reminisce [about] Alphan moments of glory and enjoy each other’s company”. Lastly, Tau Alpha Down Under is a chapter in Australia that gives opportunities to graduating members of Tau Alpha when seeking job opportunities in foreign countries. The “demand for engineers in the land down under” paved the way for members to find their way to each other and form another unit of the growing family of Tau Alpha.

As the fraternity approaches its 90th anniversary, the network of the Tau Alpha keeps on growing and expanding. Every single member of the fraternity which came from different corners of the country, it is no doubt that Tau Alpha has built an unbreakable legacy.

er known as Alphans, lpha Fraternity

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ALPHAN IDENTITY

A BLUE SKY FLEECED WITH WHITE CLOUDS

EDITORIAL BOARD

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: JOHN RICK L. MACARANAS ASSOCIATE/MANAGING EDITOR: CHRISTIAN CARLO G. ROLDAN NEWS EDITOR: LAWRENCE ANGELO A. DE JESUS FEATURE EDITOR: CARL JOSHUA CAGUIOA OPINION/COLUMN PAGE EDITOR: HUDSON RALPH MASTRILI CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER/S: CHRISTIAN VINCENT M. REGINIO ANDREI JAMES C. VILLANUEVA LITERARY EDITOR: JOHN ALFRED C. GREGORIO CHIEF LAYOUT ARTIST: ALPHONSE ROSSAINT V. SAMBRANO COPY EDITOR: CARLI RECIO III STAFF OF WRITERS: AL FRANCIS V. DELOS SANTOS LLOYD ALFRED O. ONOFRE MARTIN JOSEPH R. SUNDO JERONE ANTHONY R. TORRES JOSEF PAUL L. GELERA JOHN PAUL N. LIGUTAN

JERONE ANTHONY R. TORRES

“The Argonauts” is not a group of perfect men. As the Greek mythology goes, Jason was driven by the sole purpose of reclaiming the throne that is rightfully his. With the gods’ grace, the Argonauts was formed by seemingly imperfect men whose flawed images faltered with outstanding qualities of strong determination, stout character and extreme focus on goals. The Argonauts is for an unknowledgeable man, who seeks the truth of the unknown.

The Argonauts is for a lost man, who seeks to find his purpose and dreams. The Argonauts is for a lone man, who seeks and can be a brother for others for a lifetime. The Argonauts is for a man who knows who he is, who knows what he himself desires to be, and who knows what he needs to be, for others.

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The Argonauts is for a man who knows who he is, who knows what he himself desires to be, and who knows what he needs to be, for others.

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GEARNEWS

The Argonauts is a band of heroes, known for their adventures and achievements. On their own, they were already heroes capable of doing things alone that others cannot.

But their adventure together proved them otherwise. They lack things others have. They cannot do things others can. The Argonauts is not a group of perfect men. This makes it the perfect environment to foster, to grow and to learn. The blue color of melancholy shows the challenges and hindrances imposed to achieve a centralized dream. Fleeces of white clouds in this blue background are the sweat-filled efforts and sacrifices done to overcome such difficulties.

Tau Alphans are not perfect, but as a group with diverse minds and strengths, breaking limits makes them perfect with the golden fleece as the shared endgame. At the end of the day, I think this is what makes the sky a pleasing sight to see: the perfect balance of imperfect things.

It is the same sky that The Argonauts in the Greek mythology see as a new day arises and challenges continue to go on their way.

ALPHAN VIEW What do you think is the most important characteristic of a Tau Alphan?

A Tau Alphan is the one who endeavors excellence in his field not limited to the betterment of himself, but also to his brothers and the fraternity.

Wrylo D. Aurelio Tau Alphans are forged to have a strong and noble character, a true testament for being the BEST among the rest.

John Paul N. Ligutan The most important characteristic of a Tau Alphan is self-discipline. Tau Alphans overcome weaknesses and pursue right things despite temptation of wrong.

Martin Alessandro C. Ragasa Older brods always put emphasis on the underdog mentality Tau Alphans have- rumbles or whatnot. We, Tau Alphans, are relentless.

Archon Sean E. Crispo

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ALPHAN LEGACY

TIMELESS HERITAGE ALPHONSE ROSSAINT V. SAMBRANO

related or not. Nights filled with laughters, music, and narration of sweet memories are creating another memories from itself. Their memories have now become ours to share.

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What our founders left us is the endless sea for us to sail, to help each other find each of our own golden fleece, whatever it takes, just as they did.

“

Countless Memories. Endless Milestones.

Boundless Legacy. These are the things that our founders have passed on through generations of Tau Alpha. Approaching the 90th year of brotherhood and camaraderie, the fraternity is continuously making history through the achievements and successes of alumni brothers and resident brothers by living out the trait of a true Tau Alphan started by our founders.

As years passed by, the members of the fraternity are committed to making the fraternity as one of the successful fraternities that ever existed not just in the university but also in the Southeast Asian Region. In order to maintain the bonds among members even if some are graduating from the university, the alumni brothers are always organizing various fellowships that will reunite the brothers. In these fellowship events, alumni brothers are often recalling their memories in the university, may it be academic-

As graduates of a university whose mantra is “iskolar para sa bayan”, the fraternity always gives back to its motherland. There are alumni brothers who were named as politicians, appointed cabinet secretary, and served in the military. These notable alumni

made a really great contribution to the country in terms of politics, education, and military. Moreover, there are projects that the fraternity are planning that help out the community, especially the fraternity’s college alma mater. These milestones created by alumni brothers and resident brothers are already carved in its rich history and will always be treasured. These milestones guide us towards the path that we are to take.

We. Are. Boundless. This is the most unquestionable legacy that our founders left us. In whatever things we are facing, the most important trait of a Tau Alphan is being boundless. No one can ever hinder a Tau Alphan in achieving his dreams. What our founders left us is the endless sea for us to sail, to help each other find each of our own golden fleece, whatever it takes, just as they did.

ALPHAN PROPHECY

OMEN OF EXCELSIOR HUDSON RALPH D. MASTRILI and procurements not just for the present but the future as well. Seeing the focus of Tau Alpha, I can say that every callus that is produced is a victory at each end and is a poignant reminder of how far we have come.

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For as long as there are men of stout character, men whose eyes seek the truth, men who call each other brother and mean it, so will there be Tau Alpha

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There are good and bad apples and picking the best one will rather prove difficult. But this quest to find the best was started a long time ago by a brotherhood that defies every hindrance arm to arm.

Spearheaded by 16 noble argonauts, the search for the golden fleece started. The goal to attain not just the excellence in physical possessions but rather, a holistic approach in every manner was one of the initial mantras during the brotherhood`s younger age. Through the years the blood pack faced numerous hardships. Hindrances that tested the core and foundation of each Alphan only to show the prominence of each.

Formed from humble beginnings this brotherhood stood, strived, and fought, from there, the continued roaring of substantial success echoes by. No one can deny, Tau Alpha has reached milestones, achievements,

An assemblage of intertwined diversity that plead to be at each other’s sides no matter what. Diversity in an affiliation that believes that the denouement of every

chapter is the inception for another. Aiming that the legacy will be instilled in the very soul of everyone. Yonder and wonder, device one’s greatness for the greatness of one will be the pride of all! Occurrence of such moral will compel nothing but greatness.

Nevertheless, the motive of selfless act just to promote the wellbeing of others, to comprise what once was divided and to nurture the seeds of the future and what lies ahead will forever be the quest we ought to cap. To quote: “For as long as there are men of stout character, men whose eyes seek the truth, men who call each other brother and mean it, so will there be Tau Alpha” -Eric Villegas ‘59 Able to move individually, to move as ONE we will THRIVE! We are Tau Alpha!

10 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF TAU ALPHA FRATERNITY

GEARNEWS MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2020 ISSUE NO. 01

LITERARY

Infancy to Man

Me-TA-morphosis

BY ANDREI JAMES C. VILLANUEVA

BY CHRISTIAN VINCENT M. REGINIO

Infancy It was bawling during sleepless nights, countless fights.

The voices kept on struggling, hustling It knew.

Men of Faith: Glorious, righteous his Eternal seekers of the Fleece Tau Alphan Brothers : men reborn Acquire the Golden; and transform Mirroring the legendary Obliterating misery Remastered Promulgate positivity Harmonize hospitality Outlive the omniscient highborn Stupendous trait of the newborn Integrating identities Seekers now don the Golden Fleece

An innocent creature, a beautiful red liquid It flows along the roadside and within.

Flying colors wearing gold and silver medals It made them happy overjoyed, overflowing with dreams Adolescence, black ink in front and beside.

Stories and whispers, deadlier than a knife they never stop, they never die.

A teenager was stabbed, but remained standing up.

Everyday, It was on repeat University filled with old boys having fun.

Alcohol, smoke, drugs It was tested, wandered everywhere alone, while everyone was forming groups and organizations.

Camaraderie was formed, It joined alpha males from different fields, from different families that soon became brothers.

Metamorphosis, It became a man.

Sailing on an argo, alongside his brothers on a long journey to the sea, seeking for the golden fleece.

It became us.

Change

BY JOSEF PAUL L. GELERA

I want to change Like the man with the prickly beard He who once held me tightly in his arms And the woman whose loving embrace I felt each night The woman who would caress me whenever I cry I need to change Because everywhere I looked Everyone was hunched over me Looking down on the naïveté of my actions When I finally opened my eyes I realized that I have to change To become a better man To achieve everything I’ve ever wanted And in the search of my golden fleece.

11 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF TAU ALPHA FRATERNITY

ARCHIVES A COLLECTION OF STORIES FROM PAST ADVENTURES

T

GEARNEWS MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2020 ISSUE NO. 1

Sessions With Bacchus

he name Bacchus came into use in Greece during the 5th Century B.C. Son of Zeus, Bacchus is the god of wine and cheer. Festivals in his honor became occasions for licentiousness and intoxication.

In our drinking sessions, we drank from the same glass – tagay-tagay doon sa kubeta, singing with guitar accompaniment from June Palugod ‘89 and Boyet Damot ‘86.

A few of us,George Arellano ‘62, Monet Kapag nagkantahan na sa kubeta, maririnig Serrano ‘63, Cabbie Abrera ‘61, myself and na ang mga boses namin hanggang 3rd floor.

Ericus ‘59 were called San Juan Boys because Nagrereklamo nga yung mga instructors we used to hang out atop the huge water and students doon kapag naririnig ang mga pipe in front of the Ejercito mansion in San - Sonny Reyes ‘70 kantahan namin Juan drinking cuatro cantos with Royal Tru Mostly ang buhay namin noon, inom!

Orange as chaser. Sometimes when baon - Doc Doctor ‘87-C Araw-araw, inom! Ako, Archi at that time, at was short, sipol lang ang chaser. For pulutan, I remember our drinking sessions back and klase sa Archi, afternoon, eh! Putsa! Pag Cabbie was famous for his ‘maanghang’ na then.

We used to have Beer Grande, a bottle baba ko ng bus, pagdaan ko sa tambayan, karne norte. of gin and a family-sized Coke.

Those were nag-iinuman na! Tatagayan ka! Hindi na ko the proportions for “Virgin Coke” back then.

- Boogie Aguiluz ‘60 nakakapasok sa klase ko, o kaya papasok ako, Then some ice in a pitcher.

That was so good! amoy alak! Hindi naman mahigpit sa UP! Tau Alphans are very unruly and rowdy.

And they are Number One when it comes to drinking. “Number One lasinggero!”

They have always had the trademark of being the toughest, roughest, boldest, and most venturesome bullies in the College of Engineering.

Gaudencio E. Antonino, TA ‘32, was probably the most famous of the old guards, having been elected Senator in 1961. After graduating from UP, he joined the Bureau of Public Works. During the war he was 2nd lieutenant, 101st Engineer Bn., and served with the USAFFE as 1st lieutenant, as well as with the USAFIP, WL in 1945. He died in a plane crash while campaigning for a second term as senator. He is best remembered for his fearless opposition to gargantuan congressional allowances.

I WILL NOT BE A NACIONALISTA CANDIDATE NOR A LIBERAL CANDIDATE BUT THE CANDIDATE OF THE PEOPLE, I WILL TELL THEM. ALL THEY HAVE TO DO IS DROP ONE AND PUT ME IN HIS PLACE IF THEY WANT THE FIGHT AGAINST CONGRESSIONAL ALLOWANCES TO GO ON. IF I LOSE, THEY LOSE WITH ME.

Vicente T. Paterno, TA ‘44, chaired the Board of Investments from 1970 to 1979, and subsequently served as minister of Trade starting in 1979. During his stint in public service, he was appointed Chairman and President of Philippine National Oil Company in 1986 and later became Deputy Executive Secretary for Energy in the Office of the President from 1986 to 1987. He was elected Senator from 1987 to 1992. After government service, he founded SevenEleven in the Philippines.

Technocrats of Integrity

“

TAU ALPHA CHANGED MY LIFE IN THE SENSE THAT I BECAME PART OF A COHESIVE GROUP IN COLLEGE. AND SOME OF THE FRIENDSHIPS THAT I MADE IN TAU ALPHA LASTED A LONG TIME.

“

- Gary Olympia ‘69-B

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Early Servant Leaders

- Atong Matias ‘80-A

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TAU ALPHA FRATERNITY Welcomes you to the University of the Philippines Life in the university is the same as life in general. You could easily get lost in the new environment, new classes, new people, etc. We understand how overwhelming it could be.

After all, this is what each brother had been through before they found the Tau Alpha Fraternity. Founded in 1932, the fraternity had since been a beacon of excellence in engineering, true home of brotherhood, profound friendship and a lifetime bond.

Take your journey in the university to a whole new level.

Visit our TAU ALPHA CORNER at Melchor Hall in UP Diliman or CEAT Student Lounge, College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology in UP Los Baños.

You may contact the specific campuses through the following: (+63) 917 309 0382 (UP Diliman) (+63) 945 453 3352 (UP Los Baños) Visit us on our official website: taualpha.org Visit us on our official facebook page: facebook.com/taualphafraternity

TAU ALPHA SEEKER OF FLEECE LIVE FOR WHAT IS RIGHT | DIE FOR WHAT IS TRUE

TAU ALPHA FRATERNITY Copyright © 2020 Melchor Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines