By Rafael Angelo De Borja Taracatac Φ2025
Brotherhood knows no bounds—it transcends eras, borders, and generations. This truth was once again made evident as the Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity gathered for Phi Riot 2025 on February 22, 2025, held at Ocean Tower, Roxas Boulevard, Malate, Manila. The night was graciously hosted by Brod Jose Castillo Gonzales Φ1969A and Gerardo Dizon Legaspi Φ1983B. Conversations flowed as stories, jokes, and experiences were exchanged, reaffirming the timeless bond that unites the Fraternity. More than just a reunion, Phi Riot remains a living testament to the spirit of the Loyal Sons of the Phi Kappa Mu – a Brotherhood beyond generations.
The night was opened with a solemn Christian prayer led by Brod Edgar Emmanuel Sanchez Manaois Φ1977, followed by a Muslim prayer led by Brod Rashdi Sean Halipa Que Laurente Φ2025. With a sense of unity and gratitude, the gathering continued with a bountiful feast that brought brods together over shared plates and stories. As the brods indulged in the feast, the room buzzed with the unmistakable warmth of the Fraternity.
As the evening progressed, the hosts, Brod Louiejabe Yap Nuniala Φ2024 and Brod Antonio Moscoso Alcantara Jr. Φ2025, took center stage to welcome the brods to Phi Riot 2025. Their introduction set the stage for the speeches from the evening’s esteemed hosts, Brod JoeGon and Brod Gap. Brod Gap reflected on his tenure as Director of the Philippine General Hospital, sharing how he dedicated his career to serving the people. He serves as a reminder to the brods that they, too, should dedicate their work to the service of others. Meanwhile, Brod JoeGon recounted the origins of Phi Riot, sharing how the tradition began in 2008 when Brod Benigno Amor Agbayani, Jr. Φ1986 observed that quite a number of brods celebrated their birthdays in February, the very month for the celebration of Riot. What started as a simple gathering soon grew into a cherished tradition, bringing together brothers from different generations.
The newest brods of the Fraternity, Phi Batch 2025 Quarterbacks, then took their turn in the spotlight to introduce themselves to the brotherhood. Following their introductions, they showcased their talents through a series of musical performances. Their set featured a mashup of Demonyo by Juan Karlos Labajo and Magasin by Eraserheads, followed by renditions of Reynaldo Valera Guardiano’s Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko and Itchyworms’ Beer.
The Phi Band also took the stage, setting the night alive with a vibrant selection of songs that had brods singing along and reminiscing. Their setlist featured a mix of classics and contemporary hits, including Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Mundo by IV of Spades, Narda by Kamikazee and Mamma Mia by ABBA. As the music filled the air, various brods stepped forward to join the performance. Brod Gap and Brod Constantino Tocong Castillo III Φ1991 SE 1995-1996 took the mic for renditions of With a Smile by Eraserheads and Tuloy Pa Rin Ako by Side A, with Brod Winston Caraos Umali Φ1989B playing on keyboards. Brod Federico Cristobal Carcellar de Jesus II Φ2014 also showcased his vocal talents by performing Marilag by Dionela and Iris by Goo Goo Dolls.
As the evening drew to a close, Venerable Preceptor Garret Royce Kho Dychiao Φ2023 took a moment to recognize the esteemed alumni whose unwavering support has kept the flame of brotherhood burning strong. In a fitting end to the night, the brothers of the Phi Kappa Mu stood shoulder to shoulder, voices rising in unison as they sang the Fraternity song—a timeless anthem that has echoed through generations. Though the night had ended, the spirit of brotherhood remained ever steadfast. With each gathering, Phi Riot continues to be more than just an event—it is a living reminder that the bonds of brotherhood endure, unshaken and everlasting.
