Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro – The University of Batangas (UB), in partnership with Luna Goco Colleges (LGC), held a Kickoff Launch of the Grand Alumni Homecoming of the UB-LGC Graduate School Consortium at Halcon Bar and Restaurant, The Filipiniana Hotel, in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro last June 14, 2025.
Spearheaded by UB Graduate School, the event brought together a diverse group of alumni — including educators, business leaders, public servants, psychologists, and professionals from the 14 municipalities of Oriental Mindoro and nearby districts of Occidental Mindoro. These individuals are all beneficiaries of the graduate programs introduced by the UB-LGC Consortium since its inception in June 2010.
The homecoming was honored by the presence of UB administrators, led by University President Lily Marlene J. Hernandez-Bohn and Vice President for Academic Affairs Aurora P. Tolentino, both of whom delivered heartfelt messages reflecting on the Consortium’s enduring impact. The attendees were reminded of their shared academic journey and the community it fostered.
A highlight of the program was the recognition of several distinguished alumni for their exceptional contributions to their fields and communities. This was followed by the induction of the newly elected officers of the UB-LGC Graduate School Alumni Association, with its new president, Dr. Franie M. Afable. The ceremony was officiated by Dr. Federico Cabaillo, a respected alumnus and current City Councilor of Calapan City.
Cultural heritage was also in the spotlight with a captivating performance of the traditional folk dance Pandang Gitab by students from Parang National High School — the Grand Winner of the 2024 Pandang Gitab Festival of Lights.
A key feature of the event was the relaunch of Project HUB (Handog ng UB), a community extension initiative aimed at supporting the Mangyan Tribe in Naujan, Mindoro. Mr. Abvic Ryan C. Maghirang, President of the University of Batangas College Graduate School Society (UBCGSS), presented the project’s renewed objectives, inspiring alumni to consider replicating similar initiatives across the province.
The event concluded with a message from Lolita F. Tegon, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasizing the importance of continued alumni engagement in advancing the university’s mission and outreach efforts.
Following the formal program, a lunch buffet offered a warm setting for alumni and guests to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate the spirit of camaraderie that defines the UB-LGC Graduate School community.