As the sweltering sun of Nevada casts its golden rays on the bustling city of Las Vegas, a remarkable gathering is set to illuminate the Orleans Hotel and Casino with an extraordinary display of camaraderie and unity. Over 338 attendees, including two hundred Upsilonians representing batches from 1955 to 2023, are converging from across the globe to partake in the Upsilon Sigma Phi North America Global Bente Singko reunion from May 30 to June 1. This event, hosted by the Upsilon Sigma Phi North America (USPNA), is not just a celebration of a milestone anniversary but a testament to the enduring spirit and fellowship that define this venerable fraternity.

Upsilon Sigma Phi, the oldest Greek-letter organization in Asia, was founded in 1918 at the University of the Philippines. With a storied history marked by its members’ unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and service, Upsilon has produced some of the country’s most influential leaders, intellectuals, and visionaries. From its inception, Upsilon Sigma Phi has stood as a beacon of brotherhood and has significantly contributed to shaping the social, political, and cultural landscapes of the Philippines.

This year’s reunion in Las Vegas is particularly momentous, as it marks the 25th anniversary of USPNA, the largest alumni association outside the mother chapter in the Philippines. With over four hundred members across the United States and Canada, USPNA has been instrumental in driving numerous projects that benefit the fraternity, its members, and the University of the Philippines.

“The continued vibrancy and relevance of the USPNA can be attributed to the excellence, unselfish service, and commitment of the past and present officers and Board of Directors, chapter presidents, and all the member brothers to scatter the light and prove in their actions and deeds that we are one, every time, everywhere; truly the years cannot break us. The Upsilon sun shines brightly,” said USPNA Chairman of the Board, Eleazar “Jun” Galano ’68.

Indeed, the Global Bente Singko 2024 is set to be a resplendent affair. The festivities kick off on Thursday, May 30th, with a warm welcome reception. The following day features the “Kambingan,” a spirited tradition where Upsilonians and sisters from Sigma Delta Phi showcase their talents in a lively competition. The culmination of the event will be the grand Gala dinner on Saturday, June 1st, preceded by a Plenary Session. Attendees will also engage in various sports activities, including golf, bowling, billiards, shooting, and go-kart racing, and enjoy a whiskey-tasting night.

One cannot overlook the diligent efforts of the reunion’s organizers, led by the indefatigable Jhovin Poblete ’79. Together with USPNA President Jorge “Jory” Catibog ’71, USPNA Chairman Jun Galano ’68, and a dedicated team of alumni spanning different regions, they have meticulously planned an event that promises to be one of the most successful reunions in the fraternity’s history. Their tireless work is a testament to their unwavering commitment to fostering the Upsilon spirit.

Moreover, the presence of distinguished attendees such as Roel Z. Castro ’84, Chairman of the USPAA Board of Trustees, and Robert Aranton ’81, UPAA president and U.P regent, underscores the significance of this gathering. The USPNA Tanglaw Awards, to be presented during the Plenary Session, will honor twelve Upsilonians from North America for their exemplary leadership, brotherhood, service, and professional excellence.

Reflecting on the journey of USPNA from a loose association of chapters to a vibrant and purposeful organization, Jorge “Jory” Catibog ’71 remarked, “Global Bente Singko 2024 promises to be one of the more successful reunions in the history of our fraternity, a true labor of love by the organizers. We look forward to the next twenty-five years.”

As the Upsilon Sigma Phi fraternity celebrates this milestone in Las Vegas, it stands as a symbol of enduring brotherhood, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to the ideals upon which it was founded. The reunion is more than a gathering; it is a reaffirmation of the fraternity’s legacy and its unwavering dedication to its members and society. With the collective efforts of its organizers and the enthusiastic participation of its members, the Upsilon Sigma Phi sun indeed shines brightly, scattering light across the globe.

In a world often beset by division, the Upsilon Sigma Phi’s Global Bente Singko reunion is a shining example of unity and the powerful bonds that can span continents and generations. Here’s to the next twenty-five years and beyond.

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Louis “Barok” C. Biraogo ’79, Kweba ni Barok