By Vincenz Constantine Tankiang Ferrer Φ2021
On the eighth month of each Fraternal year, brothers of the Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity convene from all over the nation and the world to partake in an evening of joyous celebration overflowing with priceless wisdom, endless laughter, and fervent hope. Amidst the looming backdrop of a worldwide pandemic, the unwavering flame of Phi brotherhood blazed warmer than ever as the Fraternity welcomely embraced its eighty-eighth year of longstanding tradition last August 28, 2021.
Similar to proceedings from the year prior, a virtual gathering conducted via Zoom brought together a multitude of Loyal Sons eager to celebrate the Fraternity’s recent triumphs and future endeavors within the safety of their own homes. The 88th Foundation Stag was formally opened by Venerable Preceptor Jared Troy Riotoc Del Rosario Φ2019B and co-host Justin Daniel Davis Serfino Φ2021 followed by solemn prayers led by brod Justine Karl Patrick Calachan Dantes Φ2019B and Mohammad Sarifola Dimalotang Alonto, Jr. Φ2019B. A moment of profound silence was offered as recently departed brods were paid tribute to, their names and deeds etched into the lasting legacy of the Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity.
Second to none, Superior Exemplar Allen Khriztofer Pineda Lichauco Φ2017B, SE 2021-2022 himself addressed this momentous gathering of Phi brothers on this glorious night of fellowship. Paying tribute to the endless support of the alumni, SE Allen led the Fraternity in wishing the newest roster of alumni outstanding success in the upcoming Physician Licensure Examination. Soon after, brod Dennis Pestaño Serrano Φ1984B, current President of the Phi Kappa Mu Alumni Association (PKMAA), brod Roberto Paras Cabugao, Jr. Φ1976 current President of the Phi Kappa Mu International (PKMI), and brod Darfrente Tuason Nibungco, Jr. Φ1971, whose batch “Dirty Dozen Plus Three” were this year’s celebrating Golden Jubilarians, inspired the room with their noble words of wisdom and commitment to support as the Fraternity neared its ninth decade.
Younger alumni including brod Juan Antonio Maximiano Regalado Escano Φ1992 and brod Jose Antonio Tan Paulino Φ2009, SE 2013-2014, passionately reminisced on the Fraternity’s extraordinary impact in their medical careers and beyond, encouraging the younger brods to wholeheartedly embrace the Fraternity as they had. To conclude the prominent roster of Phi brothers, brod Raphael Alfonso Javier Dy Santos Φ2021 of the Fraternity’s new blood, the Fortunatos, joyfully recounted their warm welcome into Phi despite the virtual barriers, vowing to preserve the Phi tradition and be guided by its Four Pillars as those before them have done.
All throughout the night, high spirits were kept as brods Raul Vicente Orosa Recto, Jr. Φ2021 and Raphael Alfonso Javier Dy Santos Φ2021 entertained everyone with their fantastic musical performances of hit classics like “Don’t Let Me Down” by the Beatles and “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” by Queen. With resounding cheers, the 88th Foundation Stag program drew to a close with final remarks as well as acknowledgements led by the Venerable Preceptor. Nevertheless, the night was still young for Loyal Sons of the Phi Kappa Mu. Finishing well into the occasion, the ensuing fellowship rallied brothers belonging to the Most Venerable Fold from across generations into a sharing of unforgettable stories and plans for a brighter future ahead.
The years will pass as these always do, bringing insurmountable challenges poised to shake the very foundation of Filipino society. Yet in these trying times, the Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity stands united, unyielding, and eternal in pursuit of its founding mission. Eighty-eight years today, and eighty-eight more tomorrow. A testament of its indomitable brotherhood.
