“To our alumni, this is your home.” This message from University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr. set the tone during the Inauguration Ceremony of the USeP Balay Alumni on April 18, 2026, at the USeP Tagum-Mabini Campus in Apokon, Tagum City.
Leading the Federation of USeP Alumni Associations, Inc. were its President and USeP Alumni Regent Hon. Engr. Julius P. Borbon, Vice President Dr. Susan Vicente D. Villarente, and Board Members Dr. Arman A. Capin and Dr. Antonio M. Faunillan, Jr. They were joined by representatives from alumni associations of USeP Obrero, Tagum, Mabini, Bislig and Davao School of Arts and Trades (DSAT), along with distinguished sponsors of the USeP Balay Alumni.
In his welcome message, Engr. Borbon highlighted the deeper significance of the facility, calling Balay Alumni a “tangible home” for all USeP graduates—a place where memories, networks, and aspirations come together. He pointed out that the building realizes the concept of belongingness into a reality, strengthening ties that extend beyond graduation.
The ceremony started with a ceremonial flag raising, followed by symbolic activities such as the ribbon cutting, solar switch lighting, and the unveiling of the Balay Alumni logo. More than marking the opening of a structure, these moments signified the beginning of a shared space rooted in legacy, connection, and purpose.
Pres. Gabales expanded on this vision, describing the Balay Alumni not just as a building, but as a living bridge connecting the past and future, forming a key part of the University’s transformative goals. He recognized that while he had the privilege of leading the inauguration, this achievement is the result of collective efforts of many leaders over generations, especially acknowledging the foundational efforts of former USeP President Dr. Lourdes C. Generalao.
Joining him were Vice President for Administration Dr. Maria Luisa B. Faunillan, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jeneifer C. Nueva, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension Dr. Roger C. Montepio, Tagum-Mabini Campus Chancellor Dr. Shirley S. Villanueva, Secretary of the University and the Board of Regents Dr. Joan C. Gervacio, USeP Career and Alumni Center Director Dr. Alma Mae G. Salinas, and Dr. Generalao.
Also present were stakeholders including Department of Science and Technology Provincial Science and Technology Office Davao del Norte representative Ms. Charity Bucane and Tagum City Councilor Hon. Ciara Isabelle Uy-Salazar representing Davao del Norte 1st District Congressman Hon. De Carlo “Oyo” L. Uy.
In her message, Hon. Uy-Salazar encouraged the alumni to view the space not as a place for comparison but as a place for reconnection and belonging. “This should be a place where you come back not to measure success, but to remember who you are,” she said. She also highlighted the strong partnership between USeP and the local government, citing initiatives like Project Letra on Wheels, which helps provide education to underserved communities.
The program also acknowledged the important role of alumni associations and stakeholders, honoring sponsors in silver, gold, platinum, and diamond categories. Dr. Villarente, described Balay Alumni as more than a symbolic center but a strategic resource. Created to generate income, it enables the Alumni Federation to maintain impactful programs, strengthen partnerships, and involve alumni as active participants in the University’s growth.
This milestone aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 17, promoting lifelong learning and enhancing collaboration among the University, its alumni, and external partners. It reinforces the idea that education extends beyond graduation through continued engagement, shared responsibility, and collective advancement.
As the doors of Balay Alumni open, they welcome more than just returning graduates; they open to stories, aspirations, and renewed purpose. It serves as a lasting reminder that no matter where life may lead, USeP remains a constant, welcoming home to all USePianos.
#USePCARES
#WeBuildDreamsWithoutLimits
#SDG4 #SDG17
