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Tau Gamma Writings/Center for Tau Gamma Studies
A Letter from Rod Confessor, Founding Father, Tau Gamma Phi
Letter about the Tau Gamma Sigma by Kay H.
Essay about the Tau Gamma Phi Colors by Ray R, UP Chapter, Tau Gamma Phi
Leadership and the Tau Gamma Experience Trixie Ela San Mateo, MDG, UP Los Banos, 2003
Mang Meliton, Master Keeper of the Boards by Joemari Geroci and Dong De Los Reyes
The Tau Gamma Federation by Mitch Flores, MDG, Triskelion de Mindanao
I am a Triskelion by Majal777
Quotes from the Founding Fathers of Tau Gamma Phi
Genghis Khan and Tau Gamma Phi
History of the Triskelion Information Technology Organization (T.I.T.O)
Tau Gamma Sigma History
September 18, 2007
Copyright 2009, owned by Tau Gamma Phi
A Letter from Rod Confessor, Founding Father, Tau Gamma Phi
Congratulations to all on our 39th Founding Anniversary!
We’ve surely come a long way and though the drive has been somewhat
bumpy, it was to a great extent, a terrific and exciting journey. I
will try (and hopefully succeed) to provide you with the requested snippets
of anecdotes about those early days leading to the foundation of the
frat. However, digging through one’s memories, particularly when
we’re talking of 39 long years, will always be an effort of sorts.
Searching for those vivid images, adjusting the focus for some that
appear murky, and discarding those that trigger unpleasant feelings
while trying, at the same time, to render unbiased, accurate accounts,
can be a challenging chore.
I can only hope that my memory serves me right.
“those intervening years before the foundation”
We all met during our sophomore year in the university. Classmates in a few general curriculum courses as well as in some political science subjects, we were drawn together by our common interests in political theory and philosophy and the intense desire to make a mark in this vast academic community called UP.
We would often spend hours, in various spots all over campus, but often
on the lawn area outside the main library arguing and debating endlessly
over theories of Machiavelli , Aristotle, Calvin, Aquinas or some forgotten
philosopher. Mind you, we were not intellectuals, just a bunch of guys
fascinated by what countries and people do that eventually shaped this
world.
We came from different backgrounds. Resty (Alfonso), Tito , and myself
were Manila bred guys while Talek, Roy, and Romy (Fortes) came from
Midsayap, Cotabato, Cardona, Rizal and Irosin, Sorsogon, respectively.
All of us, I believe entered the university as entrance scholars- the
first and the last time any of us earned that distinction.
It was a strong bond of friendship that over time extended to something
more concrete, acquiring a sense of purpose and mission that needed
to be expressed.
“the Political Science Club-the nucleus”
By our 3rd year, we became part of a bigger group of political science
majors that included most of the Founders Batch and the future founders
of Tau Gamma Sigma. It was an expanded social circle of friends and
acquaintances, mostly classmates, who met quite regularly and frequently.
Some of the senior members of the group were already part of the Political
Science Club - one of the biggest (numbering more than a hundred members)
and certainly one of the most influential student organization in Diliman
during our time. We were invited to join the club and join we did.
Political Science is considered the best preparatory course for law
and the club was populated by members whose ultimate goal was to be
a member of the bar. Naturally, it was ruled by members of the law fraternities,
which at that time was composed of Sigma Rho, Alpha Phi Beta, and Scintilla
Juris. There was a smattering of Upsilonians but majority of the fratmen
and sorority women came from the aforementioned groups.
The” Poli Sci Club” was also a rich fishing ground for recruits.
As such, we were approached either individually or as a group by all
of them. It was a struggle not to yield
to the promise of lifelong camaraderie and years of “pleasant existence” in the College of Law ( and within the university itself) that was being offered by each.
None of us were convinced, though tempted, to give in to the pressures.
We refused to lose our identity nor give up what we started together.
We knew what we wanted. We will build a new brotherhood - an organization
founded on a new set of ideals, democratic in practice, liberal in thinking,
distinct but not elitist in its perspective, rich in diversity, and
most of all open and tolerant in its views.
It was our turn to do the fishing inside this big pond called the Political
Science Club.
“the founding years”
Establishing the frat was, for most of us, a work in progress. The first
two years were the hardest. Designing the framework, defining the standards,
and building the structure took a toll on everyone. Day after day we
would meet to continue where we left off. Weekends were spent updating
each other on the progress of individual assignments and consolidating
inputs. Talek’s dorm room and Romy’s apartment somewhere
in Anonas were turned into work shops cum sleeping quarters.
From among the group, it was Resty Alfonso who took on the task of working on the framework and standards that will ultimately define the organization. His keen mind and sharp intellect made him the most suited for this role. Who and what we are, as well as what we stand for, are, to my opinion the most critical questions that needed to be answered. Finding the answers was not easy. Ideas were flowing freely from everyone but concretizing them to form a solid whole, linking each one into a coherent, relevant , meaningful concept, while making sure that they collectively represent our deepest aspirations, was the real challenge.
While Resty was neck deep in research, Talek, Roy, Romy, Tito, and myself
were working feverishly to attend to the details of organizing. The
design of recruitment procedures, membership guidelines, initiation
and indoctrination processes as well as rituals made our heads spin.
The organizational structure from the head of the frat down to the lowest
ranking officer had to conform to the overall scheme of things. The
devil is in the details, so the saying goes, and for all of us it seemed
like we would spend eternity figuring how to make sense of everything.
After months of research and countless meetings, Resty finally presented
to us his opus- The Tenets and the Code of Conduct. It was then, and
still is now, a superbly written doctrine that defines with utter simplicity
and yet profoundly deep in meaning and value what to us was the proper
representation of true brotherhood.
He also introduced to us the Triskelion - a figure that showed three
running legs radiating and connected from a common center, which is
symbolic of all the dynamic forces in physics and from an Asian standpoint,
a symbol that represents the three aspects of dependent relationships
which give existence to all functioning things. It was both a fitting
symbol and portrayal of our philosophy-encompassing the entire spectrum
of our beliefs and ideology. Soon after, it was adopted unanimously
by all six of us as our seal and emblem.
“a rose by any other name….”
Adopting a name for the frat was the subject of much discussion. We initially took the position that we should use a non-Greek letter name as one way of signaling our departure from the system. From among the many suggestions given, we somehow leaned towards the name Fraternal Order of the Triskelions. However, during the last stage of our preparations, we realized that it was to our best interest that we take the Greek letter route as it was a more acceptable proposition from the perspective of recruitment. Furthermore, we also wanted to avoid being perceived as a mere honor society or be ranked a notch lower than the established frats.
As a compromise, we decided to favor the name Triskelions’ Grand
Fraternity and adopted the Greek letter initials Tau Gamma Phi.
“the founding batch”
By the latter part of the second semester, we were ready to begin active recruitment. We were able to secure pledges of willingness to join from a few close friends but we needed more recruits to reach the number required by the university for a student organization. Thus, we decided to begin selection from a short list of names, ranking the individuals on the basis of their commitment levels, strength of character, potential contribution to the frat and leadership skills. Allow me to name a few brods from the Founders Batch whose significant contributions paved the way towards the fulfillment of our ideals:
Rolando “Rolly” Bayan- strong in academics, highly analytical,
we sought his counsel during critical times, a real devil’s advocate
during important discussions, and an excellent political strategist/
( Rolly graduated with Political Science degree as well as an LLB from
the UP College of Law, became a ranking legal officer in the Office
of the President of the Philippines until his brutal murder in the late
eighties in his residence along with his wife. The case remains unsolved
up to this day.)
Gerardo “Gerry“ Dacanay- highly principled, strong convictions,
good leadership skills, an implementor ( Gerry eventually became the
third GT, a philosopher-warrior, it was during his watch when the first
major conflict with Kappa Epsilon occurred . (He graduated with a Political
Science Degree, reportedly went abroad soon after. His present location
is unknown to me.)
Cesar “Cid” Diomampo – a born leader, highly organized,
became Corps Commander of the UP ROTC (a position whose campus stature
was equivalent to the UP Student Council President) assumed the GT position
right after Gerry, credited for putting a more regimented approach to
organizational discipline, it was during his administration when the
frat mounted its first major political campaign in UP- the KAKASA party
with Rene Guioguio as standard bearer for AS Council President, it was
also the first time that we were recognized as a political force in
Diliman ( he graduated with a Political Science degree, a successful
businessman, Cid is still very active in frat affairs as Treasurer of
the Alumni Association)
Alvin DeVeza- an active and reliable organizer, an all around guy and
an excellent propagandist, often called” Mr.Newsman”- he
is a one man information machine providing the frat the much needed
intelligence data during the turbulent period (Alvin graduated with
a Political Science degree, worked in Congress and taught in a Metro
Manila school, he died a few years ago)
And of course, one should not forget the others whose counsel we sought
often during the formative years- Benjamin ( “Benjie “)
Tagayuna, a long time member of the Congressional Office, House of Representatives,
and The Fajayan twins , a successful doctor and a lawyer. Eduardo (Ed”)
Conde, who became a accomplished banker and whose whereabouts remain
unknown, stayed largely in- active during most of the period due to
pressure of studies. [Rod forgot to mention Jesus Rodriguez, Jr.]
I could go on and on but there are so many events, highlights, and milestones to consider and it would probably require me to take a sabbatical just to reflect and sort out those memories. Obviously the expulsion of the two founding fathers from the organization deserves serious thought and recollection. However, the memories of those times were quite painful to recall considering that it serves no purpose except to define historical perspective and extract one bitter lesson: no one, regardless of contribution, stature, and or role in its success, is bigger than the organization itself. The life and success of the fraternity move on its momentum derived mainly from the collective efforts of its members. It thus becomes imperative for the incumbent leadership to provide the direction necessary in order to harness this collective effort towards the greater good of all its members and the organization, devoid of selfish motives and personal aspirations.
My best wishes to everyone. Happy 39 years!
In the spirit of the Triskelion,
Rod ‘68
--------------------
Supremacy in Strength...Freewill...Brotherhood, may we always remain...
Written by Karina Nicolas-Hernandez
It was during my Asian Civilization class at the U.P. PHAn
that I received a bouquet of roses and a box of chocolates
from someone anonymous one late afternoon. I was intrigued.
What made it even more intriguing was the short and scrawny
messenger patiently waiting for me outside my classroom.
He was polite and friendly, but I found him to be a bit too
fast and presumptuous when he started to ask me all kinds of
questions and refused to answer mine. I would later get to
know him as Loy Loyola, my ardent sponsor and supporter
to the Tau Gamma Sigma.
That afternoon became the first day of the rest of my life.
I found myself being convinced to join and, before I knew it,
initiated for the first batch of the Tau Gamma Sigma which
eventually became the counterpart of the infamous Tau Gamma
Phi in Diliman.
I was one of the girls initiated for the batch Merganser.
Initiation Day was everything I expected it to be, a challenging
day of physical, mental and emotional competence. But, I later
realized that you can never be too prepared for “the day”.
All neophytes, the term used for new recruits, were tested,
challenged, even humiliated at times. It was a humbling and
learning experience for me because it was then that I realized
how much passion and determination can actually be drawn out of
me when my heart is into something. I had to let go of all
inhibitions and made the resolve to be part of this organization
despite the pain I felt from kneeling on monggo beans and the “spit”
we were made to gulp down blindfolded. I would later find out that
we actually swallowed egg whites. Thank God for that! If SARS or
meningococcemia were existent then, I probably would have had
second thoughts about joining the sorority. Kidding aside,
imagine the relief and excitement we all felt when we were finally
accepted as “Sis”. What made this feat even sweeter for
me was
that I eventually became the first Grand Lady Triskelion with my
primary focus on the recruitment of more members. This would result
to the institutionalization of the Tau Gamma Sigma.
One of the fondest memories that I treasure from being part
of this organization is that I got to develop friendships with
all sorts of personalities from all walks of life. This was a far
cry from the social environment that I always knew to be too
controlled and superficial. Engrained in fraternity-sorority life
was the spirit of “family”. We were allowed to be different,
but,
just the same, everyone was accepted. When one was in need, all
were prepared to share, support, and protect. When one was wanting,
everyone was there to affirm, praise and encourage. For worthy
causes, we were ready to serve, work and cooperate with one another.
I feared the “tussles and tumbles” of rumbles. But, it was
then that
I witnessed the determination of the “Brods” to pursue justice
and
fairness at all cause. I even got an unexpected bonus from joining the
“family”, that is, finding my lifetime partner, Mike Hernandez.
My prayer for all of you, my “Brods” and “Sis”,
is that, whatever
and wherever you may find yourselves at the moment, you will continue
to pursue Godliness, righteousness and justice in your homes and workplaces.
Continue to bring honor to the name of our fraternity and sorority as
pay back for how they have been “home” to us for many years.
As I wrote this article, I delighted from the sweet reminiscences
of my involvement in Tau Gamma Sigma. Thanks to Brod Jun Z. for
the prodding and persistent follow-ups of this article! I felt your
seriousness in putting this website together, hence, I apologize for
the delay. I do hope it brings justice to the noble purposes of how
and why we came to exist in the first place. Mabuhay ang Tau Gamma Phi
and Sigma!
Over the years, certain matters come into light, some seen
in a different light. Such is our Fraternity's history and
other facts and allegories closely related.
When I joined the frat in 1972, all 4 founding fathers still
frequented the "tambayan" on an almost daily basis. In fact
it was Rod Confesor's brilliant and eloquent delivery at the
orientation that made me and seven others decide to join
Tau Gamma Phi that Friday evening in late August, one of them
the late Allen Hernandez (former Sec. Gen 1976). The seal
we had to "kiss" was actually done in primary colors:
red, yellow and blue. Even the decals and silk-screened t-shirt
logos were done in 3 colors. I could only assume the 3 primary
colors equated with the 3 dynamic forces of
"Fortis, Voluntas and Fraternitas". In the '1990's, these
dynamic forces were even likened to the
Triune God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit); go figure.
If I am not mistaken, my "ka-batch", Roland "Adi"
Adriano,
who later transferred to NU and worked for KBS involved in
TV productions, made possible the procurement of reflectorized
decals. Either his father, or another close relative, worked for
3M Philippines and that we were given a handsome discount for a
minimum order of 500 pieces but only in 2 colors since 3 would
bump up the price, considering the cost of offset printing in
those days (1973 BC, "before computers"). So a decision was
made
to use black and gold since the contrast made the 3 legged symbol
glow when light, esp headlights, reflected upon it. For P2.00 each,
half a day's allowance for a typical college kid in those days,
the brods snatched them up like crazy, sticking them on wallets,
briefcases, "Cattleya" notebook covers and car bodies, windshields
and other windows.
I was at a gun show some years back, rummaging through military
"distinguished insignias", enameled metal "pins"
worn on headgear
such as berets and garrison caps. One such item caught my attention:
a 3 legged symbol in gold on a round, green background with the word
"FORTIS" below. I thought to myself, since Tito Venida was
a history
major, could he have come across this symbol before his inception
of forming a fraternity? In 1967, Star Trek had an episode entitled
" The Gamesters of Triskelion" about inhabitants of a solar
system
with 3 stars (suns) who were always gambling with each other, pitting
intergalactic Gladiators in fights to the death, betting on who wins
and what the odds were. Captain Kirk engaged an alien warrior
in hand-to-hand combat in an arena with the 3 legged symbol painted
on the floor of battle. I guess the brods' penchant for "pusoy"
is
just a coincidence. But clearly, Tito could have been, and still
probably is, a "TREKKIE".
I still have one surviving decal, affixed to my leather checkbook
cover since 1979, still intact to this day. How are we to know that
from such trivial beginnings, noble principles could be derived? It
is a classic version of "function following form" and "the
means
justifying the ends". Pure symbolism, yet true to principle. And
it
takes real Triskelions to find the true meaning of our norms and ideals
and live our lives according to them.
Bro. Ray R. Ramirez, MDG
U.P. 1972
Sec Gen Los Angeles/Southern California
Leadership and the Tau Gamma Experience
Leadership Revisited: My College and Sorority Lives in One
Belonging to a prestigious organization in UP Los
Banos campus is something to be very proud of. Wearing
an org shirt is more of putting the name of the
organization to a higher extent of yelling to the
world that you are one and part of a well-established
organization; with all the praises, reputation and
kindled relationship it carries within.
Same as thousands of UP alumni who graduated from the
premium university in the country, I was once a bearer
of a valuable and legendary title, already written in
the history and prodigy of UP. Belonging in the not so
late generation of UP students ever evolved, I once
acknowledged and practiced the customary “estudyante
blues” we all have defined ourselves with. With a
little grasp on the life of an “iska” as I spent years
of my life in the same environment, I also wondered on
how living would be like when what we call “social
life” mingles and take part on our lives inside the
campus. So as already an existing member of the Tau
Gamma Sigma Sorority two years past prior to my
admission to the university, going through the welcome
ritual has been my 1st priority and mission that
accordingly I was able to accomplish immediately. Yes
freshman year, with so much of the curiosity and
innocence covering all that are yet to be discovered,
with only allegiance that I hold I made up my mind
entering into a new level of commitment, in a new
phase of my existence.
More expectations, learning and adjustments got along
with few failures and sort of twists in my college
life. It took a year before I was able to absorb all
the difference and challenges that college life in UP
offered me. It was a dare indeed, but the sweetest and
a superb undertaking that I was able to overcome
still.
And so the gist and the most thrilling portion of this
phase is to be a part of the Triskelions’ Grand
Sorority known to exist in the university. Having a
good number of actively involved sisters during my
time (freshman year to be exact), performing academic
and non-academic extracurricular activities inside and
outside the campus had not been a major difficulty we
had encounter. Just putting it into concept,
twenty-four minds and strength is way better than that
of ten or twelve. Simply saying, luckily, I had been
part of my sorority during the ‘high and successful
times’ of its existence. This propitious hit lasted
for almost two years since year 2003, with the
sorority being handled by an outstanding VetMed
sister, MDG Alpha Mateo, who was a two-time “Grand
Lady Triskelion” (or head, as we call it) during these
days. Her term ended as her college years were over
and time called for a change in headship in year 2005.
Why MDG Alpha Mateo’s term became part of my sorority
life’s gist? Simple. It inspired me in ways no one has
ever thought of. It is in her term that I was able to
learn almost everything a beginner in this field could
ever gain knowledge of. The manner on how she carried
out her leadership skills, as how I saw it, taught me
lessons of balancing priorities and being true to
service and commitment. Also the bond that a sorority
is expected to encompass was reflected on the manner
each one treats other sisters in her own ways. And
that brought more pride for me being in and being with
the ‘ate’s’ I once considered having in my so-called
vision where I found my other sanctuary. Diverse we
all may be, but those differences I think are what
brought us together – in one name, with same
principles.
But as saying puts it, “it does not end there”. Far
above the ground, there would still be so much to be
learned. Putting into practice as another time calling
permits it, being held responsible in one of the
crucial tasks a Grand Council member could hold of was
a sort of saddle and more of a challenging thing to
deal with. Taking care of the sorority’s funds will
always be an issue-conveying matter anyone could be
anxiously involved into. But with the overwhelming
trust your sisters give, how could you say no to the
call of commitment you could possibly submit? Since
accepting this position for a certain period of time
comes with great responsibilities, I considerably gave
it a shot. Giving it the benefit of the doubt, I was
molded – honed to become a productive member and
virtuous officer of the sorority. Never in my dreams
did I realize it being a beginning of a lifelong
journey of being a Triskelion. So, it served for me my
own training ground for the rest of obligations that
are soon to follow.
Two years after, the peak buzz took place. My turn to
lead and maintain the legacy was preceded with my
mission to become an effective one. But unlike the
term I looked up to, I was pounded with the idea of
having a few members left to continue the survival and
supremacy. Luckily, with everyone’s eagerness and
honest intentions for the name and pride of being
Triskelions, everything was handled with utmost
regard. So, being few in number was dominantly
controlled by the notion that “strength does not
solely dwell with numbers”. Though significantly,
number is indeed a factor, it did not hinder everyone
from aiming to be united. The primary strategy of the
Sigma’s during this term was to be one. Every once in
a while, Triskelion sisters would get together, hang
out and celebrate during the not-so-busy nights of
college LB days. By living this habit out, the sisters
were brought together even closer. And venues for our
gatherings such as apartments and houses of sisses had
even witnessed the ties that were tested and toughened
through time.
With the strategy of Triskelions sisters during this
term, a greater bond was formed. And with the greater
bond, a family was created. Literally living up to
this conquest made it easier for everyone to work
together as one. Hence, activities that aimed to
foster camaraderie merely among the sorority and
fraternity members and to other organizations and to
showcase sportsmanship, creativity, talents and skills
were brought to life. Some of these activities are the
annual Street Painting Competition, “Open Tambayan”,
Inter-Organization Shirt Competition, “Triskelion Cup”
(an annual Inter-Fraternity Basketball Tournament and
annual Inter-Sorority Volleyball Tournament), annual
Street Jazz Dance Competition entitled “Unleashed: Go
Beyond the Limits (The Ultimate Moves on the Groove)”,
and a major production play entitled “Pangarap sa
Isang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw”. Additionally services
and other activities that involved voluntary
participation for the benefit of the less fortunate
ones were also conducted. Two of these are the
participation of the Sigma sisters in Bayani Challenge
(for the benefit of Gawad Kalinga) and “Paskong Alay”
– a Chritmas outreach for the elderly in an
institution in San Pablo City, Laguna.
With one common and concrete mission and vision, we,
the full-fledged Triskelion sisters were able to bring
beyond the importance of the sorority to our lives.
Not only it was a sweet victory for me upon completing
my term but a preparation it has been for the rest of
the resident members during that period. The most
precious and the priceless encounters would always be
the most delightful – the MEMORIES of the MEMOIRS that
were fulfilled. And it could, for everyone, never end
there. They are already engraved in every member’s
life – wherever we all may be. The legacy our
commitment leaves within us would always be part of
our individuality. Supremacy in strength, freewill and
sisterhood – always and forever we will remain.
Sis Trixie Ela San Mateo, MDG
University of the Philippines, Los Banos 2003
Mid-Atlantic Regional Council, USA
Mang Meliton, Master Keeper of the Bulletin Boards, TGP
Paying It Back for Mang Meliton a.k.a "Mang Milton"
Posted by Mike on Dec 26, '08 10:06 PM
Meet Meliton Zamora, a retired University of the Philippines janitor
and my
hero.
For forty-five years, he swept floors, cleaned up trash, watered plants
and
did odd jobs at the University.
I met him when I was active with the UP Repertory Company, a theater
group based (then) at the third floor lobby of the Arts & Sciences
(AS) building. He would sweep and mop the hallway floors in silence,
venturing only a nod and a smile whenever I passed him.
Back then, for me he was just one of those characters whom you got
acquainted with and left behind as soon as you earned your degree and
left the university for some big job in the real world. Someone whose
name would probably ring a bell but whose face you'd have a hard time
picturing. But for many UP students like me who were hard up and had
a
difficult time paying their tuition fees, Mang Mel was a hero who gave
them the opportunity to finish university and get a big job in the real
world.
The year was 1993 and I was on my last semester as a Clothing
Technology student. My parents had been down on their luck and were
struggling to pay for my tuition fee. I had been categorized as Bracket
9 in the recently implemented Socialized Tuiton and Financial
Assistance Program (STFAP). My father had lost his job and to
supplement my allowance, I worked part time as a Guest Relations
Officer at Sam's Diner (back when the term GRO didn't have shady
undertones) and took some odd jobs as a Production Assistant, movie
extra and wardrobe mistress.
To be eligible for graduation, I had to enroll in my last three courses
and pay my tuition fee. Since my parents didn't have enough money for
my matriculation, I applied for a student loan hoping that my one of
my
Home Economics (HE) professors would take pity on me and sign on as
a
guarantor for the student loan. But those whom I approached either
refused or were not eligible as guarantors. After two unsuccessful
weeks of looking for a guarantor, my prospects looked dim, my future
dark. And so, there I was, a downtrodden twenty year old with a foggy
future, crying in the AS lobby. I only had twenty four hours left to
look for a guarantor.
Mang Mel, with a mop in hand, approached me and asked me why I was
crying. I told him I had no guarantor for my student loan and will
probably not be able to enroll this semester. I had no hopes that he
would be able to help me. After all, he was just a janitor. He borrowed
my loan application papers and said softly, "Puwede ako pumirma.
Empleyado ako ng UP." He borrowed my pen and signed his name. With
his
simple act of faith, Mang Mel not only saved my day, he also saved my
future.
I paid my student loan the summer after that fateful day with Mang
Milton and it has been 15 years since then. I am not filthy rich but
I
do have a good job in the real world that allows me to support my
family and eat three meals a day. A few weeks ago, a friend and UP
Professor, Daki, told me that Mang Mel recently recorded an album which
he sells to supplement his meager retirement pay, I asked another
friend, Blaise, who's taking his Master's degree at UP to find out how
we could contact Mang Mel. My gesture of gratitude for Mang Mel's
altruism has been long overdue. As fate would have it, my friend saw
Mang Mel coming out of the shrubbery from behind the UP library,
carrying firewood. He got Mang Mel's address and promised him that we
would come over to buy his album.
Together with Blaise and my husband Augie, I went to pay Mang Mel a
visit last Sunday. Unfortunately, he was out doing a little sideline
gardening for a UP professor in Tandang Sora. We were welcomed into
their home by his daughter Kit. As she pointed out to a laminated photo
of Mang Mel on the wall, she proudly told us that her father did retire
with recognition from the University. However, she sadly related to
us
that many of the students whose loans Mang Mel guaranteed neglected
to
settle their student loans. After forty-five years of service to the
University, Mang Mel was only attributed 171 days of work for his
retirement pay because all the unpaid student loans were deducted from
his full retirement pay of about 675 days. This seems to me a cruel
repayment for his kindness.
This is a cybercall to anyone who did not get to pay their student
loans that were guaranteed by Mang Mel. Anytime would be a good time
to
show Mang Mel your gratitude.
Mang Mel is not asking for a dole out, though I know he will be
thankful for any assistance you can give. So I ask those of you who
also benefited from Mang Meliton's goodness or for those who simply
wish to share your blessings, please do visit Mang Mel and buy his CD
(P350 only) at No. 16-A, Block 1, Pook Ricarte, U.P. Campus, Diliman,
Quezon City (behind UP International House) or contact his daughter
Kit
V. Zamora at 0916-4058104
November 1st, 2008 by tgp-iligan
Triskelion de Mindanao is not Tau Gamma Phi because we
firmly believe that Tau Gamma Phi resides in the Chapters.
In other words, each and every chapter is Tau Gamma Phi itself;
operating independently from each other however bonded in one
spirit since each chapter adheres to the same Tenets and Code of Conduct.
Triskelion de Mindanao is simply an umbrella organization of all
Triskelion Entities in Mindanao, to wit: Tau Gamma Phi Chapters,
Tau Gamma Sigma Chapters, and Triskelion Alumni Organizations.
It does not exercise Governing Power but we only exercise Remedial
Power, which is basically inherent in nature and bestowed by the
Tenets and Code of Conduct.
Triskelion de Mindanao advocates the empowerment of the Chapters
and emphasizes the governing power of the Grand Triskelions. We
instill in the minds of the brods and sis that each and every
chapter has to responsibly govern itself in order to attain supremacy
in their respective territories. However, although independent in
governance, each chapter must observe accountability to the name
Tau Gamma Phi because no chapter has the sole right to the name
Tau Gamma Phi. This is where the remedial power of Triskelion de Mindanao
comes in. Basically it is to ensure that each chapter must live within
the boundaries of the Tenets and Code Conduct.
Hopefully in the future, if ever we come up with one constitution
to govern the entire Triskelion forces. We in Triskelion de Mindanao
strongly suggest that it has to be a Federal Type of Government wherein
the Chapters will remain to be governing units and the Grand Triskelions
can still exercise governing power.
Strong chapters make strong councils, and will definitely make a
strong Fraternity Worldwide.
cnong Triskelion ang
makakalimot
sa
hirap at sarap
na pinagdaanan nya para
lamang
mahagilap ang
kinang at tanyag ng pagiging
isang
miyembro ng TAU
GAMMA PHI/ TAU GAMMA
SIGMA.
Ang bawat patak
ng pawis,kabog ng dibdib,at
latay
sa
katawan...ang
saya ng pag-abot ng kamay
ng 'yong
mga bagong
kapatid,matapos makipag-
agawan
ng "paddle" habang
inaawitan ng TRISKELION
SONG...
WALA... pawang
ang mga ito ang nagsisilbing
gabay sa
paglago,bilang
isang miyembro at isang tao.
Akala
mo
pagtpos ng
finals tapos na ang lahat,pero
simula pa
lamang ng
lakbayin mo...sapagkat habang
buhay
nang mananalantay sa iyong
mga
ugat
ang dugo ng
isang TRISKELION...nasaan ka
man,aktibo man o
hinde...ang tawag ng pagsilbi sa
kapatiran ay
mararamdaman. sa paglipas ng
taon,kaagapay ang
paglago ng bilang ng mga
miyembro.naway,ang
mga prinsipyo,aral,at pangalan
ng
TauGammaPhi/TauGammaSigma
ARIBA TAU GAMMA PHI
TAU GAMMA SIGMA!!
_________________________________
______________FORTIS_____________
________777777777777777777_____F_
__V______7______________7_____R__
___O_777777___77777777777777_A___
____L__7___7___7__________7_T____
_____U__7___7___77777___7_E_____
______N__7___7_7___7___7_R______
_______T__7___7___7___7_N_______
________A__7_____7___7_I________
_________S__7___7___7_T_________
_____________7_7_7_7_A__________
______________7___7_S___________
iwas born as a TRISKELION!
I will live as a TRISKELION!
I will die as a TRISKELION!!
0nce a TRISKELION always a TRISKELION "
TRISKELION can avoid doing wrong
but can't avoid going strong"
Firmly believes in the
p0wer 0f reas0n but n0t in the use 0f
f0rce as a reas0n! A TRISKELION has
always lived up to the motto, "it will
stand n0 matter where you thr0w it",
which acc0mpanies its seal- Strength,
Freewill & Br0therh00d/Sisterh00d!
TAU GAMMA PHI/SIGMA aims to rule
and
conquer the universe..
I AM A TRISKELION, I WILL DIE AS A TRISKELION..
THE TAU GAMMA PHI WILL NOT DIE
BUT SUDDENLY MULTIPLY AND NO EVIL FORCES CAN BLOCK THE POWER OF TAU
GAMMA PHI/SIGMA...
A TRISKELIONS HEARTS BURNS WITH THE DESIRE TO SERVE THE WEAK..
WE HUMBLE OURSELVES AND BE AT THE WILL OF THOSE
WHO ARE IN DIRE NEED..
IGNORANCE OF THOSE WHO MOCK US WILL PAY THE PRICE...
FOR HUMBLE AS WE ARE,PRIDE OF A LION IS
STRONGER AND OUR FRATERNAL LOVE IS FOREVER...
WE SERVE,THEREFORE WE ARE SERVANTS BUT MASTERS OF OURSELVES AND IN OUR
BELIEFS..
WE THE TRISKELIONS ARE STRONG AND JUST AND NOT ONLY ON WHAT IS RIGHT...
WE DO WHAT IS FIT AND NOT ONLY ON WHAT IS NEEDED...
LIVE AND LET LIVE...
BROTHER UNTO BROTHER BY WILL OR BY FATE.
..
Quotes from the Founding Fathers
of Tau Gamma Phi
We knew what we wanted. We will build a new brotherhood - an organization
founded on a new set of ideals, democratic in practice, liberal in thinking,
distinct but not elitist in its perspective, rich in diversity, and
most of
all open and tolerant in its views.
Establishing the frat was, for most of us, a work in progress. The
first two
years were the hardest. Designing the framework, defining the standards,
and building the structure took a toll on everyone. Day after day we
would
meet to continue where we left off. Weekends were spent updating each
other
on the progress of individual assignments and consolidating inputs.
Talek’s
dorm room and Romy’s apartment somewhere in Anonas were turned
into work
shops cum sleeping quarters.
From among the group, it was Resty Alfonso who took on the task of
working
on the framework and standards that will ultimately define the organization.
His keen mind and sharp intellect made him the most suited for this
role.
Who and what we are, as well as what we stand for, are, to my opinion
the most critical questions that needed to be answered. Finding the
answers
was not easy. Ideas were flowing freely from everyone but concretizing
them
to form a solid whole, linking each one into a coherent, relevant ,
meaningful concept, while making sure that they collectively represent
our deepest aspirations, was the real challenge.
While Resty was neck deep in research, Talek, Roy, Romy, Tito, and
myself
were working feverishly to attend to the details of organizing. The
design
of recruitment procedures, membership guidelines, initiation and
indoctrination processes as well as rituals made our heads spin.
The organizational structure from the head of the frat down to the
lowest ranking officer had to conform to the overall scheme of things.
The devil is in the details, so the saying goes, and for all of us it
seemed
like we would spend eternity figuring how to make sense of everything.
After months of research and countless meetings, Resty finally presented
to us his opus- The Tenets and the Code of Conduct. It was then, and
still
is now, a superbly written doctrine that defines with utter simplicity
and yet profoundly deep in meaning and value what to us was the proper
representation of true brotherhood.
He also introduced to us the Triskelion - a figure that showed three
r
unning legs radiating and connected from a common center, which is
symbolic of all the dynamic forces in physics and from an Asian
standpoint, a symbol that represents the three aspects of dependent
relationships which give existence to all functioning things. It was
both a fitting symbol and portrayal of our philosophy-encompassing the
entire spectrum of our beliefs and ideology. Soon after, it was
adopted unanimously by all six of us as our seal and emblem.
~Rod Confessor‘68
“If we are well-oriented we cannot be fooled and used by some
people
who seek gain in the fraternity for his personal interest. If we are
well-oriented we can identify which is wrong and which is right. Our
Fraternity has its own life, our loyalty must not be in the institution
of our fraternity nor to those persons running those entities neither
to the Founding Fathers, our life has an end and we gonna die too
someday. But our fraternity will continue to live on until the next
40 years and in the coming future years if our loyalty lies only to
the
fraternity itself, the Tau Gamma Phi.”
~FF Rod Confessor '68
QUOTE
Triskelions are noted for their acute capacity to discern what is right
and what is wrong; the good from the bad; truth and falsehood. Soon
the
truth will come out.
~ Talek Pablo ‘68
Tau Gamma Phi and Genghis Khan
Hi Mga Brods,
I agree with all of you but let me tell you a story if you are not
busy.
I saw this in the History Channel.
Before Genghis Khan became famous, the Mongols were a divided people. They rob each other, fight each other, kill each other. Temuchin (Genghis’ real name) recognized this disunity and was determined to solve it.. He went to the mountains to think of a solution. He concluded that his people needed LAWS. And he did just that. Examples of his laws were “you cannot go against your Khan”, equal sharing of the plunder, teamwork in battle, sense of duty, discipline, cooperation, free will. And these were things that were never heard of during that time.. So a lot of Mongols joined him. There were other competing leaders but mas Maganda ang mga sinasabi niya . Many of the Chinese who evidently were not Mongols even joined him. Then his rag tag army grew in number and they conquered kingdom after kingdom after kingdom and the rest is History.
Last October of this year 2008, my dad (UP Vanguard, 1952) visited
me here in Massachusetts. We talk and talk about his old days in Diliman
when the acacia trees were not that big. But after a while he brought
the Tau Gamma subject. “Yan palang si Jun eh active diyan sa Tau
Gamma”. Then at some point, he asked with his raspy voice (matanda
na kase),
“Sino ba ang role model ng fraternity ‘nyo?”
And I answered: “GENGHIS KHAN!!!”
(This was said cheerfully followed by a burst of laughter.)
I hope you enjoyed the story.
rvz
TGP
History of the Triskelion Information Technology Organization (TITO)
About Triskelion Information Technology Organization(TITO) It started when concerned members of Yahoo group of Triskelions' GrandFraternity decided to meet because they discovered that one chapterwebsite was compromise of its security in protecting its vitalfraternity information. They met in Rembrandt Hotel on September 14,2003 and the following brothers who attended that first meeting areBro. Ronald Peril(DLSU), Bro. John Badillo(UST), Bro. RandyBardaje(Sacred Heart Community), Bro. Froilan Sicat(Angeles,Pampanga), Bro. Joji Mendoza(PSBA-QC), Bro. Dave Catalig(UST), andBro. John Panelo(UST). It is an informal meeting to give opinions onlatest developments of all Tau Gamma Phi websites in the Philippinesand in other countries. They reach a consensus that there is a commoninterest to establish an organization of professionals brothers whoare involve in Information Technology. The goal is to unite all TauGamma Phi Fraternity webmasters and to have a venue for exchangingideas with other brothers in Information Technology relateddevelopments. They agreed that its primary objectives are to have acommon feel and look of all chapter websites in black and gold colors;using standard Tau Gamma Phi logo seal; and removing of all sensitivefraternity documents in chapter website. Finally, they decided to namethe group Triskelion Information Technology Organization (TITO) inreverence to one of Founders of Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity - Bro.Vedasto Venida who was commonly called "Tito" as his nickname. Thusthe birth of TITO, and the rest is history.
Tau Gamma Sigma History
from TGP Cyberspace Council
It was a cold afternoon of January 17, 1969 in Mandaluyong when the TAU GAMMA SIGMA was formed. Eleven (11) illustrious coed girls from UP Diliman campus are “barkada” of the Tau Gamma Phi founders. These girls were all political science students and members of the Political Science Club who are valiantly embraced the TENETS AND CODES OF CONDUCT.
The founders are Rosmarie Carandang, Victoria Sisonte Bataclan, Lucita Rodriguez, Erlinda Arabejo, Teresita Aguinaldo, Mila Garcia, Rowena Celino Alfonso, Emily Sibula Hiadini, Nitz Santos, Flery Tesado Tesoro, and Luzviminda Tancangco. The first batch that had initiation rites was held in Bustos, Bulacan. Successive batches came in until they reached the number of almost fifty members of different courses in UP campus.
Formal structure followed in July 1970 when they had their 1st Induction cum Ballroom. Despite of the girls very stiff class schedules as well as busy bodies in the campus, the Tau Gamma Sigma members managed to formulate policies and guidelines of the sorority particularly the Constitution and Initiation Procedure. Eighty percent (80%) is mental torture while only minimal percent on the physical contact.
It is indeed in great pride that the Tau Gamma Sigma members are very active in participating school activities especially in the Student Council. The sorority was an ultra ego image of the TGP fraternity which forces become stronger in the campus due to their individual excellence.
A few years later, in 1971, the number of the Sigma members had gone down due to many had graduated and recruitment process then, had become too rigid due to the sudden declaration of the Martial Law. Many things had changed, some were transferred to other schools, went abroad and some had to take leave of absence for various reasons.
Early 1973, the sorority had faded in the campus. But the brods did not stop in looking for other recourse due to the fact that they cannot live without Sigma, they need someone always at their side, “taga-luto, taga-payo, taga-gamot, taga-alaga” and all the rest of being a “taga”. By the late 1973, a Brod also from UP Diliman formed the group called “Sedarum Saudara”, an organization but not a sorority. The UP TGP Brods also called these girls as sisters. Membership in this organization has no initiation rites; they just submit their application with corresponding academic excellence, then interview portions followed. It was only in 1981 when UP TGP revived the sorority and they are Dinky Ruivivar, Chloe Ceniza, Grace Corachea and Macris Santos. In the revival batch, two members came from the Sedarum Saudara.
Presently, the original eleven UP founding sisters are now happy with
their family. Some are now based abroad, few are on their businesses
and others are holding top positions in the government.
br />
Press Statement
15 October 2011
TAU GAMMA PHI DENOUNCES BRUTAL MURDER OF UPLB STUDENT
The Tau Gamma Phi Laguna Provincial Council strongly condemns the brutal rape and murder of Given Grace Cebanico, a 3rd year Computer Science student of UP Los Baños, on October 11, 2011
We cannot allow nor tolerate this barbaric act to reign in our civilized societal order. This heinous act should be met with the full force of law and the arrested suspects must suffer the consequences of their heinous crime.
We likewise denounce the unauthorized wearing of the Tau Gamma Phi frat shirt by one of the suspects who was arrested. Our frat shirt can only be worn solely and exclusively by legitimate Tau Gamma Phi members. Its unauthorized wearing is strictly prohibited by our fraternity rules.
We appeal to our concerned government officials to strictly implement the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Law or RA 8293 otherwise known as the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines.
In line with the launching of the 1st Philippine Anti-Counterfeiting and Piracy Summit on October 24, 2011, we appeal to the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to strictly monitor the sale of counterfeited items including the sale of counterfeited Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity shirts and other collectible items by unscrupulous merchants and vendors.
The unauthorized use of our fraternity logo, shirt and items tarnishes the integrity our Fraternity and may involved its name in crimes and illegal activities similar to the unlawful use of PNP uniform by syndicates in their criminal activities.
Finally, we express our sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy with the family of Given Grace. We join the Filipino people and families of victims of heinous crimes to seek for justice, and we pray that all these heinous acts be finally put to an end. XXX
Disseminate to all Triskelions.This is what we're all here for.
One Spirit, One Family. One Fraternity.
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