NEWS

The UST Alumni Association - SOCCSKSARGEN Chapter (USTAA-SC) or the Tomasinong SOCCSKSARGEN celebrated its 4th anniversary at the Rosewood Palace located at Lagao, General Santos City on August 1, 2022. The event was attended by UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., PhD as the guest-of-honor.

Administrators from the university were also present in the event-Vice-Rector for Finance Fr. Roberto L. Luanzon, Jr., O.P., SThD, DL, Office for Grants, Endowments, and Partnerships in Higher Education Director Fr. Maximo P. Gatela, O.P., PhL, and Office of Alumni Relations Director Asst. Prof. Fredeswindo R. Medina, MACHs. This also coincided with the induction of new members of Tomasinong SOCCSKSARGEN by Rev. Fr. Ang in the presence of UST Alumni Association, Inc. President Evelyn A. Songco, PhD.

Rev. Fr. Ang said in his speech that USTAA-SC is full of life and dynamic. This substantiated their growing numbers and numerous projects and activities like the recently concluded cause-driven golf tournament held the day before.

"I have been a first witness of your friendship and rapport with one another which are actually important factors for the longevity of any organization as it is said coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is a progress, but working together is success," said the UST Rector. He considered the association's members not just alumni but as family and friends who have a common goal. The materialization of this great relationship is the UST General Santos City Campus that is set to open its doors to future Thomasians in 2023.

New members were inducted by Rev. Fr. Ang and Dr. Songco. USTAA-SC Vice President for External Gerald Paul Duremdes and PRO Grace Lim honored the two officials with a plaque and token of appreciation for their presence and participation in the whole affair.

At the end of the program, USTAA-SC Board of Directors member Christina Ramizo, MD delivered her closing remarks on behalf of the association's President Maria Carmela Royeca. She thanked everyone, especially the sponsors and benefactors of the golf tournament, and left a very promising statement. "I hope this is not the end, but the beginning of more future events," said Dr. Ramizo as she led everyone to sing the UST Hymn.