By Arhiel Philippe Manuel Tuazon Malixi Φ2024 and Louiejabe Yap Nuniala Φ2024
Celebrating the intangible bond of brotherhood, which lies at the core of the Fraternity, the Phi Kappa Mu once again held Phi Riot last February 3, 2024. Traditionally, this annual fellowship also serves as a collective celebration for all February birthday celebrants of the Fraternity. For this year, Phi Riot was conducted at the San Lorenzo Village Clubhouse in Makati, courtesy of the generous host Brod Gerardo Dizon Legaspi Φ1983B. The night was filled with conversations and experiences underscoring the invisible link that unites brothers from different backgrounds who are in pursuit of common goals, shared values, and meaningful fellowships.
As the members of the Fraternity slowly filled the space, the sound of cans opening and waves of laughter quickly followed and filled the air. The room was bathed in warm light creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for the brothers to engage in conversation — whether to catch up with familiar faces or connect with new ones. For many of the brothers who were apart for a long period, it was as if time just unpaused from where they left off. The newer members of the Fraternity, on the other hand, had no trouble mingling and sharing their own stories. The night fully showcased the warmth of brotherhood — one that knows no bounds.
Following a scrumptious feast overlaid with a cadence of stories and laughter, a short program was hosted by Venerable Preceptor Pocholo Miguel Villaruel Ilao Φ2022 and Garret Royce Kho Dychiao Φ2023. Brod Gerardo Dizon Legaspi Φ1983B first welcomed the members of the Most Venerable Fold and emphasized the impact of the enduring bonds built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. He highlighted that these are the values essential to keeping the fire of the Phi Kappa Mu brotherhood burning throughout the years.
The newly-minted brothers of the Phi Kappa Mu, Phi Batch 2024 Bloodstone, then took centerstage as they introduced themselves through a performance to the tune of No Touch by the Juan Dela Cruz Band. This was followed by another performance where they sang Minsan by Eraserheads — a poignant rendition which invited guests to reflect on the fleeting nature of youth, the bittersweet passage of time, and the comforting warmth of human connection that transcends all known physical dimensions.
Another highlight of the occasion is the acknowledgement and short message from the most senior brod present during the event, Brod Felipe Belen Sese Φ1954 SE 1958-1959. He reminded the members of the Fold to maximize their learnings from the wisdom and experiences of those who came before them as they forge their own destinies within the Fraternity and beyond. When asked his secret to living an impressive 92 years filled with jubilation and rejoice, he revealed that love and meaningful connections with the people around him, such as his brothers, keep him standing with pride and confidence to this day.
The Phi Band then took the limelight as they played an assortment of songs including Every Breath You Take by The Police, My Way by Frank Sinatra, When I Met You by Apo Hiking Society, and All of Me by John Legend, to name a few. Brods Ellewellyn Gueco Pasion Φ1964, Elmer Atienza Carasig Φ1966, and Peter Bautista Bernardo Φ1980 then showcased their talents with their performance of Imagine by John Lennon and Hey Jude by The Beatles. Following their performance, Brods Nelson Tibayan Sese Φ1981, Constantino Tocong Castillo III Φ1991 SE 1995-1996, Christopher Salamaed Constantino Φ2009, and Federico Cristobal Carcellar De Jesus II Φ2014 also went on stage and filled the room with their heavenly vocals as they performed various songs such as Stand by Me by Ben E. King, Come Together by The Beatles, and Can’t Stop by Red Hot Chili Peppers.
As the night wanes and the event formally comes to an end, generations of brothers from different walks of life once again exemplified the unwavering spirit of brotherhood that transcends mere association as they sang the euphonious Fraternity Song side by side with their arms around each other. The night may have come to an end, but the legacy of the Phi Kappa Mu will continue to thrive for years to come. The profound connection forged through shared experiences, mutual support, and steadfast commitment to the Fraternity keeps its spirit of brotherhood alive — a kind of brotherhood that goes beyond blood.
