by Jasper Ian Amparo Alindayu Ф2019
A testament to the fortitude of strong men, the Tostados are resilient as much as they are relentless go-getters. Reborn through conflagration in the binding flames of the Phi Kappa Mu, they are burnt but are not consumed nor reduced into ashes waiting to be thrusted into deep oblivion. Their fervent ardor is powered by their intense desire to grab the ultimate goal. They always remain true to their cause and rally through every obstacle while shouting their iconic battle cry—”let’s get this bread!”—echoing from their hearts, radiating through their luminous beings. Fueled by their loyalty to their brotherhood, here are the newest brothers ready to march smoking hot to continue the unparalleled legacy of the fraternity:
Jasper Ian Amparo Alindayu (Jasper) may easily come across as nonchalant and intimidating, but he has so much to offer than what meets the eye. He likes interacting with and listening to people and as a good judge of character, he understands their nuanced stories and motivations well and believes this skill adds dimension to his experiences. This man who is committed in the perpetual pursuit of holistic growth and well-roundedness does not limit his knowledge within his area of discipline, and always strives for balanced work and play. Dynamic and profound, he is a constant learner always excited by new perspectives, and believes that by becoming insatiable in learning one becomes liberated from the shackles of ignorance and mediocrity.
Fresh off a physics degree, Binladin Ali Balt (Ben) decided to enter medicine and apply theory into medical practice. Although some people think of him as this stern physics aficionado, he describes himself to be more artistic and spontaneous. His friends describe him as a person of many interests and hobbies. He is a self-taught watercolor painter, and his works include landscape art and children’s illustration. In his spare time, he also writes poetry and dabbles in photography.
Some of you may know Miguel Vicente Tumaliwan Belizario (Miguel) through his father but there is more to his identity aside from their kinship. A quiet and reserved BS Psychology graduate, he loves to sit down with people and listen to their stories, advices, and problems or concerns, especially when it comes to cars, mathematics, or maintaining order. Although devoted to his studies, his family-orientedness allows him to strike a balance between work and play. His steadfast faith keeps him resilient in spite of the demands and pressure along the way.
Whether it be shooting hoops on the court or top spinning balls in table tennis, Jose Manuel Ricardo Morato Conjares is always game! When not doing sports, he spends his free time being up-to-date with the latest news on gadgets and tech. He takes interest in computers, cellphones, and headphones—always eager to give out recommendations to someone deciding on what to purchase. Dauntless and full of grit, Jeric can take on any challenge that comes his way, most especially with his brothers rallying behind him.
Hailing from the scorching city of Tuguegarao, Ignatius Dominic Pamittan Cumigad (Nic) has traversed the most tortuous path to make his dreams come true. With his different fandoms ranging from anime to latest technology, even up to wrestling and even memes, his tastes are as diverse as it will ever be, even in music. A true probinsyano by heart, soul, and mind, he vows to come back and serve the underserved regions of his province once he finishes his medical degree. He enjoys the countryside life by riding a bicycle up to wherever he goes and enjoys the sceneries from there. As the one who coined the batch’s battle cry, he is ready to take on any challenges that he will face—literally getting that “bread” in a sense.
Carlos Policarpio dela Cuesta (Cody) may seem like as your usual quiet, shy, chubby kid, but this guy is actually very friendly and approachable and can easily turn from being the guy who says nothing, to the guy that doesn’t stop talking for hours—as long as you are willing to get to know him. He believes that by giving a lot of effort in whatever you do, you will be able to get the most out of it. Among his skills are cooking, baking, and a bit of badminton for sports, but it is his willingness to learn that keeps things interesting for him. Balancing all aspects of his medical student life is something that he hasn’t quite mastered, but he believes that all things will come in due time. Most importantly however, is that in whatever task he has to undertake, no matter how difficult, one of the best ways to get through it is to never forget to smile; not just at the big things, but also the small victories.
Training for several sports as a kid, the Batch Leader of the Tostados, Daniel Alexander De Joya Go (Dan) has game. Having a knack for competition and being an athletic phenom, Dan believes that he can excel at any sport thrown his way. However, when he isn’t grinding it out in the gym, this self-proclaimed nerd is deep in his books and transes because he’s just as competitive in the classroom as he is on the field. Behind his tough attitude is a thoughtful and kind-hearted man. Dan, loyal to his cause, is always willing to help out a brother in need. A good food buddy, friend, and teammate, Dan will fight alongside you. He believes that nothing is unattainable.
Yrneh St. Lois Ladera (Yrns) has once again proven his worth and claimed victory. Dedicated to service and leadership, he makes use of his talents to forward health advocacies. Make no mistake, this seemingly shy guy takes the stage when it comes to public speaking and discourse. On his free time, he immerses himself in anime and TV series, fitness and sports, and continuously learns new things to widen his skillset.
Gritty and determined, Reynaldo Gabriel Tan Paulino (Tomy) goes through every obstacle with a unique approach, the approach of a soccer player struggling to go through the opposing defenses. He believes that every obstacle can be powered through, as long as you have your team at heart. Passion is the value he most endears, as his family and his brothers are always his priority. Aside from sports like soccer and billiards, he enjoys cooking, singing and sketching.
Denzel Cruz Umerez (Denz) is an only child who brings upon an aura that would surely lighten up the mood with smiles. Quiet at first, but surely he can relate to a lot of things because of his diverse set of hobbies—from basketball, swimming, music, video games and anything else under the sun. But amidst all the recreation and thrill seeking comes a burning passion to bring his maximum effort to the challenges coming. He holds dear his family and the people continually supporting him, especially his friends and brothers. No matter what obstacle or hindrances ablaze, Denz believes he will get through it with full force with the support of his brothers.
The Tostados have emerged as glowing embers enveloped by euphoria and the warmth of brotherhood and they have become unstoppable, coalescing to burst forth their everlasting flame for genesis of the Brotherhood that is Forever Strong has dawned upon them. Through their comradeship with their noble brethren, they are now ready to tread the illustrious path of the Most Venerable Fold.
