UP Centennial Kick-off

Ecstatic.

This the word that I can best described the UP Centennial Kick-Off Activity.

Sometimes, I still can't believe that I am part, a student of the ever prestigious UP Academe and fortunately be one with pride and glorious hearts to welcome UP's Celebration of 100 years of not just mere existence, but EXCELLENCE. It really makes you feel not only proud of yourself ut proud of what UP has been in service and contributed not only to the Philippine Society but also to the whole world.

UP has been in service to the Filipino People for 100 years

And with me are thousands of my fellow "Skolars ng Bayan" from different UP campuses across the country with . This the first time that I ever saw a complete representation of Faculty, Staff, Alumni, and Students from the whole UP System!

With Dawn in front of the Lion Dance

It was really engrande into the deepest sense! There were motorcades, lion dances, parade of students, faculty, staff and alumni from different UP contingents and sky jumpers! Yes sky jumpers! It was my first time to see one, thanks to UP, they were carrying banners that carries the emblem of different campuses welcomed the beginning of the events. People really run near the field beside Plaridel Hall just to witness this once in a lifetime event.




Then 10 Tambuli were played and 100 kwitis were fired to signaled the beginning of the program. After which, 100 torches were lit by significant individuals who serve very important role in UP. The first one to lit the torch was a 10 year old UP Engineering Alumnus. Really, I can't believe that there is actually still a living individual who saw UP back in 1933's. How I would love to have a talk with him and share stories of the University we are truly proud of!

Engr. Fernando Javier, the 100 year old UP Alumnus

Last torch was lit by the current President, Dr. Emerlinda Roman, she was also the one who gave life to the UP Cauldron with the flames of her torch. As she opened the celebration of UP Centennial, one hundred rifle shots will be fired into the air by the UP Rifle Team and I saw it right before my eyes.the UP Cauldron

A free concert at the Amphitheater immediately followed featuring the world renowned UP Madrigal Singers, Ryan Cayabyab, Nanette Inventor and UP Symphonic Orchestra. There were also perfomances from the UAAP Champion UP Pep Squad and UPLB Street Dance Group.



And At last, what everyone has been waiting for! THe 13 minutes grand fireworks! It was really awesome. There is no tinge of regret in me for having stayed late after seeing the spectacular fireworks.

Posing after the fireworks display (haha! my great evidence!)

I hope that all UP Centennial Celebrations would be as much fun as I have experienced during the kick off!

Ciao. :D