If you are former classmates from high school, what would be the most effective way for you to reconnect after 48 years? The answer is, undoubtedly, a batch reunion. That is precisely what the high school alumni from two sections (Mars and Venus) of the Southern Mindanao Academy (currently known as South Philippines Adventist College) did from May 18 to 21.
They initially convened in Glan, Sarangani on the first day and then proceeded to Tupi, South Cotabato for the second and third days. However, that is a bit ahead of the story. They had originally planned to hold a batch reunion last year in Cebu.
Unfortunately, due to natural calamities—first a typhoon that resulted in flooding, followed by an earthquake—they opted to cancel the reunion. Within the chat group, they reached a consensus to organize the reunion this year.
Two classmates, now residing overseas (one in the United States and the other in Canada), made the journey to attend. In addition, two others, who live in Metro Manila, had to fly all the way to General Santos City to participate in the reunion.
In total, 16 people attended the reunion, as some of those who had committed were unable to participate due to unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, the husbands and two guests also joined the reunion.
The initial venue was Mount Sabrina Beach Resort located in Glan. It provided an ideal setting for our sunset photo shoot, where all attendees (including myself) were required to don white attire. Naturally, we enjoyed ourselves as we posed for the camera like models.
As night approached, we returned to our respective rooms to prepare for the opening program, during which everyone was expected to wear cowboy outfits. Surprisingly, we had a great time dressing as if we had transported Texas to this serene location in Glan. Armi Bugayong won the best cowboy outfit.
Prior to dinner, we conducted an election for officers. Ujean dela Cruz-Balintongog – who now lives in Canada – was elected as president, while Delia Moralde-Urboda (now residing in the United States) was chosen as vice-president for international affairs, and Rebecca Salarda-Cabahit was appointed as vice-president for local matters.
Henrylito Tacio (that’s me) serves as the secretary, with Joy Guinares-Ylagan as treasurer; we both held the same positions in the previous officer lineup. Samuel Natavio was elected as auditor, and Luzminda Bautista-Jasmin was appointed as public information officer. The two business managers are Elizer Ramos and Norie Pleños.
The following day, we made our way to Camp 1103, a tranquil destination with mountain views located in sitio Glandang, barangay Kablon in Tupi. As everyone was fatigued, we retired for the night after our devotional.
The next day, we embarked on our field trip. Our initial stop was Matutum Blooms, commonly referred to as Matblooms. This picturesque café and flower farm provides a delightful array of blooming flowers, stunning mountain vistas, and a serene nature experience.
We spent the latter half of the day to SG (Strawberry Guyabano) Farm, which has been established as an agri-tourism site that promotes nature, relaxation, and local culture. After exploring the area, we enjoyed our lunch in one of its inviting restaurants.
Once everyone felt rejuvenated, we proceeded to our next location – Euphoria Flower Farm and Adventure Park, recognized as the first adventure park in South Cotabato.
The success of the reunion was greatly attributed to the financial contributions of William Lim, who sponsored the T-shirts, and James Berdida. We would also like to express our gratitude to the Ramos couple, particularly Vicky, for her nitty-gritty efforts, especially when it comes to food.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Delia, Joy, and Minda for their efforts in coordinating the program, managing finances, and securing the venue. Pastor Jemer Cabahit delivered nearly all the worship messages and officiated the induction of officers. The devotional speakers included Jerry Urboda, Henrylito Tacio, and Raquim Daquila.
This marks the fifth reunion organized for this group. The classmates attending the reunion for the first time are Joel Dayo delos Santos, Shirley Jumantoc-Castro, and Janet Gono-Velasquez.
Additionally, the following individuals were present at the reunion: Armi Bugayong-Aragon, Genevieve Abelgas-Gubalane, Smyrna Dino-Cayona, and Fe Pangramoyen-Obregon.
The theme of the reunion was: “Timeless ties: Reconnecting the dots from 1978 to present.”
For the upcoming reunion, Davao City has been selected as the venue. It is scheduled for April 18-21, 2028, coinciding with the Golden Batch Reunion.
