by Carlos Policarpio Dela Cuesta Φ2019A
Even amidst the sweltering summer heat, the warmth of brotherhood is something we yearn for in the Phi Kappa Mu. That is why, last June 5-6, 2019, the brods and sisses form the Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity and Phi Lambda Delta Sorority embarked on their yearly tradition called: Phi Dagupan. Serving as a means to get away from the usual hustle and bustle of the Metro, this overnight trip to Pangasinan gives the resident brods and sisses a chance to visit our alumni, as well as unwind and kindle further the flames of fellowship.
Early in the morning of June 5, 2019, after a few hours’ drive form the crowded streets of Manila, we arrived at the Municipality of Asingan in Pangasinan. There, our brod Jose Mayo Villanueva Viray Φ2017A and his family graciously hosted breakfast at their lovely home, for all the 46 brods and sisses present. As we enjoyed the hearty and delectable food prepared by the Viray family, the brods and sisses recounted the multiple memorable experiences they’ve had during the previous Dagupan trips; filling the air with a frivolous and joyful feel that got everyone excited for what fun lies in store this time around.
After getting a taste of Pangasinense hospitality (care of the Viray Family), we headed to Dagupan City for the next part of the trip: A hospital visit at the Medical City Pangasinan. Upon arriving at Medical City Pangasinan, we were quickly greeted by our hosts, Brod Juan Antonio Maximo “Maxi” Regalado Escano, MD Φ1992, Brod Jeffrey Michael Viloria Wong, MD Φ2006, and Brod Kevin Romeo Sangel Lucas, MD Φ2013, SE 2017-2018. During our visit, we were able to listen to Brod Maxi talk about the plans and direction in which Medical City management will be bringing the hospital towards, in order to better cater to the needs of the people. After capping the visit with a quick tour of the hospital, we all headed towards our next agenda: Lunch!
With eager stomachs, we arrived at Ciudad Elmina for lunch with Brods Maxi, Jeffrey, and Kevin. We were then greeted by a seemingly endless variety of fresh seafood; a sight hardly seen in the City of Manila. As the brods and sisses enjoyed dish after delicious dish, the meal was made even more special when some of the brods and sisses displayed their talents as they sang and jammed along to the karaoke songs being played. The warmth brought about by the combination of good food, great music, and even better company was so contagious that it resonated with both the old and newer members alike.
After a satisfying lunch, the brods and sisses, along with brod Kevin, set out to El Puerto Marina Resort in Lingayen, Pangasinan. Upon arriving and settling in, members of PHI quickly rushed to the beach to have fun and make the most of the rest of the afternoon. The vast, quiet beach was suddenly filled with the lively spirits of the brods and sisses as they engaged in numerous activities such as ultimate frisbee, spikeball, and of course swimming at the beach’s pristine waters. As the sun started to set, the spirit of PHI remained at an all-time high amidst the long day that has passed; but our tired bodies were once again revitalized as we headed out to dinner!
Once again with big smiles and empty stomachs, we arrived at Silantro: the popular restaurant that has established itself through its Fil-Mex cuisine. Dinner consisted of the usual staples in a Mexican restaurant: nachos, quesadillas, burritos, and many more, but all with their own tasty Filipino twist. With the succulent food disappearing almost as quickly as they came, dinner ended with a photo op of the brods and sisses of PHI, with the generous hosts present.
Filled with food and excitement, the brods and sisses headed back to the resort, now accompanied by Brod Jeffrey, for a night of fellowship. As the night rolled in, members of PHI proved that the flames of brotherhood and sisterhood does not tire as they got together and shared a few drinks with each other. With a bonfire lighting up the night, thrilling games prepared by Venerable Preceptor Zadkiel Flores Velasquez Φ2017B added to an already impressive night. Appreciating each other’s company, the brods and sisses were able to take this opportunity to reminisce past stories, share in laughter, and form stronger bonds as brothers and sisters. Concluding the eventful evening was a singing of the frat song, with everybody calling it a night, after being filled with the warmth, bliss, and delight from the day of fellowship.
After breakfast was served at the resort the next day, the brods and sisses all set out to do a variety of activities before heading back home. Some decided to go back to the beach to bask in the sun or cool off in the water. Others decided to get their adrenaline fix as they took to the sloping slides to the resort’s waterpark. There were also some who chose to cheer for their team as they watched the thrilling NBA finals game.
As the trip to Pangasinan was about to come to a close, the hosts invited us to have lunch at Rufina’s Bakery & Restaurant in Binmaley. Just like all the other places we’ve eaten at in the duration of the trip, the food was nothing short of spectacular and we were more than thankful to indulge in the great food that was served.
To officially end Phi Dagupan 2019, the gracious hosts for the very memorable two-day trip were acknowledged. The trip was then culminated with a final frat song led by Vice Superior Exemplar Jose Mayo Villanueva Viray Φ2017A. With the undeniable spirit of PHI brotherhood filling the air, farewells were made with no hint of sadness; only joy and excitement for the new memories to be made in next year’s visit.
Three cheers to our gracious hosts: Maeva Guinang dela Cruz-Lalas, MD Φ1969, Class 1972; Generoso Deloso Torres, MD Φ1972; Zenaides Tactay Wi, MD Φ1972, SE 1975-1976 and Jennifer Ann Reyes Mendoza-Wi, MD Φ1972, Class 1976; Juan Antonio Maximiano Regalado Escano, MD Φ1992; Jeffrey Michael Viloria Wong, MD Φ2006; Kevin Romeo Sangel Lucas, MD Φ2013, SE 2017-2018; and Jose Mayo Villanueva Viray Φ2017A!
Three cheers as well to our event heads, Venerable Preceptor Zadkiel Flores Velasquez Φ2017B and Sister Amica Aeterna Aurora Suter Nakpil Φ2017, Class 2024!
In whatever lands we meet! See you next year!
