UNEP 59ers Set Big Batch Reunion for 2011

Coming all the way from United States, Dr. Filipinas Rigoroso-Alfelor, eldest daughter of UNEP Matriarch Dr. Remedios Rigoroso-Alfelor and former Camarines Sur Governor Felix O. Alfelor Sr, also the current Class President of then Apolinario Mabini School, now University of Northeastern Philippines (UNEP), graced the thanksgiving get-together of UNEP High School Batch 1959 held at the Felix O. Alfelor Sr building, last weekend at Iriga City.

The occasion also served as a welcome dinner for Dra. Alfelor, who during her childhood days has witnessed how the University of Northeastern Philippines had blossomed to be one of the finest universities in the region and now as a premiere school when it comes to quality education.

"I am heavily indebted to this school not because it was founded by my parents. I was in kindergarten at Colegio de Santa Isabel in 1948-1949 when this school was founded. It was formerly Apolinario Mabini School which my parents and other prominent citizens of Iriga bought. I saw the evolution of the school from a school to college to university rank, being here from grade I to senior high school and thereafter, as  a member of the Board of Trustees of the school. This is where I spent my formative years, where I had my early education which led me to where I am now."

Dra. Alfelor's vivid recollection of her memories of the university was indeed a heart-warming experience for all the attendees.  "This is where I get the full support from everybody exemplified by this occasion. This is the institution that inspires me to do something to make it going to preserve its goals to provide excellent educational opportunities and leadership to the community. Thus, in a few years, I will return to give back something to the school and the community."

The gathering of the members of Batch 1959 has rekindled their desire to come up with significant programs and activities in the future that would complement the mission and vision of UNEP, particularly in keeping up with its rallying call of rightfully being tagged as the "Home of Global Achievers."

UNEP President Atty. Remelisa Alfelor-Moraleda said that Dra. Alfelor is one of UNEP's great pillars.  "My aunt, Dra. Filipinas, is really an epitome of strength.  She is really a woman of substance. Her achievement in life - where she is right now, is the result of her hard work, perseverance and a character molded by this university."

The attendees were serenaded by the UNEP Chorale. The event ended with a planning conference for the batch's grand reunion in 2011.

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