MAPUA alumni have always been known to excel in the fields of engineering, architecture, science and technology.  But at the recent Induction of officers at P-Noy Lounge, Blacktown on 28 April, the Mapua Alumni Australia boasted of their new found talents.  They’ve gone musical too!

After the formalities of the occasion, a band of five Mapuans took to the stage to treat guests to a musical feast, dishing out the good old rock and roll hits of yesteryears.  There was Randy and Toti on guitars, Allan on drums, Greg on sax and Roberto on base who also stepped up to the mike as the band’s smooth crooner.  Newly formed and still nameless, the Cardinals of all ages took the party tempo a little faster to show proving that music is indeed ageless. 

As in most Mapua functions wit and humour prevailed and their down to earth quality was clearly felt.

2012 President Daniel Gregorio and Secretary, Marissa Manoto.

Newly inducted president Daniel Gregorio accepted the challenges as President and vowed to  continue the Mapua tradition of excellence.  He called on the members for their cooperation for the completion of planned projects.  Now on its fourth year, the association is committed to providing scholarships for the less fortunate back in their school. Already they’ve had their first scholar – Karl Paulo Clemente, a graduate of BS computer engineering. 

Others on the board included: Randy Tangonan (VP), Marissa Manoto (Secretary), Mao de Vera (Treasurer and founder of the Mapua Alumni), Ninoy Batara (Auditor), Rey Baraceros PRO) and directors: Charlie Castillo, Milagros Cabael-Gregorio, Celedonia Cruz-Uvero. And all the way from Western Australia was Joseph Calasara who is responsible for the 2015 global meet logo.

Special guest and inducting Officer, Consul Marford Angeles said “You are one with your ideals and we (the Philippine Consulate) are here to help and serve you.”  “Continue in the good name of your school and for the Philippines” he added.

Founded in 1925, Mapua is now the first school in the Philippines and Southeast Asia to be given accreditation by Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).  That makes Mapua graduates equal if not better than their US counterparts.

Another event  to look forward is the global gathering of Mapuans in Sydney in 2015.

But for tonight, they lived up to their school motto of “learn, discover and create.”  They discovered the rhythm in them and created music!  And a new band is born.