SIMM induction celebrates leadership, legacy, and fellowship
(L-R) SU BOT Chair Ricardo A. Balbido Jr., Dumaguete City Mayor Felipe Antonio B. Remollo, former DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis-Briones, Ed Dames, Helena Heun Yang, Maricar Callanta, Mac Edsel T. Florendo, Atty. Francisco Noel R. Fernandez III, Atty. Eric Duclan, BGen. Lincoln Tagle, Ret., and Gerry Tan.
Following the election held last May 10 at the Fellowship Hall of the Church of the Risen Lord at UP Diliman, the Sillimanians in Metro Manila gathered around 100 multi-generational alumni representing various sectors and industries to celebrate the induction of the new Officers and Directors of the biggest alumni chapter of Silliman University on May 31, 2025 at the historic Bulwagang Tejeros in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
Dumaguete City Mayor, Atty. Felipe Antonio B. Remollo inducted the new SIMM Directors: Ed Dames (President), OSA Atty. Francisco Noel R. Fernandez III (Chairman/Auditor), Mac Florendo (Vice President), Helena Heun Yang (Secretary), Maricar Callanta (Treasurer), Ritchie Teves (PRO), Rev. Callum Tabada (Chaplain), BGen. Lincoln Tagle (Resources Mobilization), Gerry Tan (Adviser) and Atty. Eric Duclan (Legal Counsel) with former BOT Chair Prof. Leonor Magtolis-Briones and current BOT Chair, Ricardo A. Balbido Jr. as witnesses.
Hosted by Val Vestil, the attendees, which included at least five Outstanding Sillimanian Awardees, were treated to world-class musical performances by Katrina Saga and violinist, Jude Gonzaga, covering classical, Kundiman/OPM and inspirational Gospel songs.
Special video messages of support from the SAAI President Adlai Amor, the SU Director for Alumni Affairs Ruben N. Bokingo, BOT Member Dr. Marl V. Ferenal, SU President Betty C. McCann, and OSA Katsutoshi Furukawa, OSA Alice B. Dumlao, OSA Nella Fe Pineda-Macron were also shown.
In his remarks, President Ed Dames reaffirmed SIMM’s vision of promoting inclusivity and harnessing the chapter’s collective talents and extensive network to support its members at every stage of their life journey—all while advancing the Silliman brand. To bring this vision to life, SIMM will launch a series of pocket events, each led by a Director and supported by a team of volunteer alumni.
A highlight of the program was the launching of the SIMM Jingle composed by Mac Florendo and the dance medley covering music from various eras led by dance instructor Karen B with special participants Mrs. Universe Philippines, Charo Laude, and legendary broadcaster, Rey Langit (who led the toast to the new SIMM Directors).
Capping the fun night, which gave out exciting raffle prizes and special awards, was the singing of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and the Silliman Song.
The event was supported by Ruben Vitan (which provided the Lights & Sounds), Dr. Radi Apostol, Atty. Eric Duclan, Gerry Tan, Prof. Leonor M. Briones, Atty. Francisco Noel R. Fernandez III, BGen. Lincoln Tagle, and DTC Promos, Inc.
SIMM members take a pose during their gathering last May 31, 2025.
Ed Dames, on the guitar, leads SIMM officers and guests in a song number.
(L-R) Ruben Vitan, OSA Edna Mijares, Ms. Gibet Bascara Ms. Marna Veloso and Luthgarda
“Lutie” Orteza Lee.
SIMM attendees marvel at world-class musical performances by Katrina Marie Saga and violinist, Jude Gonzaga, covering classical, Kundiman/OPM and inspirational Gospel songs.
IN MEMORIAM: Adolfo De la Trinidad Torres (AB Pol Sci ’80, LLB ’84) February 28, 2025; Roberto J. Raymundo (Elem ’74, HS ’78, BMC-FS) March 1, 2025; Donnahville Abellanosa – Gallarita (BMC ’95) March 19, 2025; Beverly Alaban – Tanoy (Elem. ’54, HS ’58, AA Pre-Med ’61) March 20, 2025; Edsil Jess A. Adalid (BM Music Ed 2013, MM Choral Conducting 2019) March 28, 2025; Fortman S. Yan (HS ’61, BSME ’64-FS) April 1, 2025; Mae Aurora B. Cortes (BSIT 2003) April 10, 2025; Raselle Torres Principe (BS Psych ’83, LLB ’88) April 14, 2025; Teresa Acapulco – Remollo (BSN ’82) April 25, 2025; Roel Sevilla Biñalber (Elem ’77, HS ’81, Speech & Theater Arts ’86) April 28,2025; Angelita M. Cadeliña (MA Bio ’84, Faculty Retiree Bio Chairperson) April 28, 2025; Emmanuel R. Balasabas (Elem ’64, HS ’71, BBA Mgt. ’82) April 29, 2025; Candice Dale Sison Gonzalez (BSN 2008) April 30, 2025; Lilia Tagnia Magdamo (MA 1965) May 1, 2025; Alvin Jerome Pinili Cordura (HS ’83, BSCE ’89) May 7, 2025; Leonilda Bayran Magdamo (MA ’71, ED. D. ’87, Retiree Elem Teacher on June 30, 2000, Chairperson Languages Dept.) May 12, 2025; Arnel Jamandre Amor (HS ’79, AB Anthro ’85) May 14, 2025; Fiscal Humilde S. Ferrer (AB ’60, LLB ’66) May 15, 2025; Ronie Magno (BTH ’98) May 17, 2025; Rogelio V. Paglomutan (ECS ’62, Elem ’68, HS ’72, BBA MGT ’76) May 23, 2025; Sanny S. Minguito (Elem ’71, HS ’78, BTH ’88) May 28, 2025; Dr. Tranquilino Valentino S. Sitoy, Jr. (BTH ’63, Dean Divinity School & OIC Vice President for Academic Affairs in 1970’s-1980’s) June 8, 2025; and Anecita G. Mananquil (Stockroom Custodian at the Chemistry Department for 30 years) June 14, 2025.
