Celebrating shared legacy and camaraderie: SorSU alumni from different batches reunite with Alma Mater & batchmates through PAGTURUPAR 2024: Grand Alumni Homecoming
To celebrate triumphs and milestones, relive shared experiences, rekindle friendships, and, at the same time, pay homage to their institution, fellow alumni from different batches of Sorsogon State University (formerly known as Sorsogon School of Arts and Trades, Sorsogon College of Arts and Trades, & Sorsogon State College), through its SSC Alumni Association, Inc., headed by Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (Alumni President, SSC Alumni Association, Inc.) and fellow alumni officers, reconnected and reunited with their former classmates and fellow batchmates as they nostalgically celebrated PAGTURUPAR 2024: Grand Alumni Homecoming today, March 30, 2024, at the SorSU Covered Court, Sorsogon City Campus.
Rejoicing their 25th anniversary, Batch 1999, the silver jubilarians, hosted this year’s Pagturupar, together with Batches 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009, & 2014 which also commemorated their 50th, 45th, 40th, 35th, 30th, 20th, 15th, and 10th anniversary, respectively.
With this year’s theme, “Kamustahan nan Urogmahan, sa SorSU Magkiritaan!”, the 2024 alumni homecoming officially commenced with their Grand Homecoming Parade around the town, starting from Kasanggayahan Amphitheater Grounds to Sorsogon City main streets. Significantly, SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus of Batch 1988, was one of the prominent alumni present in the grand reunion who extended active support and participation.
Afterward, an opening program followed, where Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (Alumni President, SSC Alumni Association, Inc.) delivered an opening message, warmly welcoming the attendees to the homecoming event. Also, Dr. Ricafort took the opportunity to provide updates regarding the ongoing construction of Balay Alumni as well as its amenities, services, and other offerings.
“We plan to complete the construction of the Balay Alumni this year, adding 5 more rooms on the 3rd floor. Thank you for your trust and confidence in serving the organization for another term. We sincerely appreciate all your donations to the association and your continued support for completing this project. Rest assured that we will keep our dedication and commitment to improving our services and providing support to our alma matter.”
He added, “It is through your continued involvement that we keep the spirit of our university alive. Let us make the most of this opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and forge new memories that we will carry with us for years to come.”
Notably, Hon. Ma. Ester E. Hamor (City Mayor of Sorsogon) also graced the event and provided an inspirational message to the attendees. City Mayor Hamor remarked, “On behalf of the City Government, I welcome you all to Sorsogon City for Pagturupar 2024. I share your happiness as you gather for your annual homecoming. Nagpapasalamat po ako sa lahat ng nag-effort na bumalik sa Sorsogon for this grand reunion. Welcome home, everyone! We are happy to have you here with us.”
Moreover, one of Pagturupar 2024’s zestful highlights was the fun-filled parlor games (Laro ng Lahi), such as the hula hoop pass and the singing contest, which actively engaged the jubilant SorSU alumni. In addition, several special awards were also given to the batches/alumni during the morning program: the Early Birds award as well as the Senior Batch Attendees award, namely, Ms. Cleotilde L. Verus (Batch 1958), Ms. Luiza Dollentas (1959), and Ms. Salvacion Destacamento & Ms. Rebecca R. Labalan (Batch 1961). The grand reunion gathering also honored the retired teachers and educators of the institution present during the event.
Further, the afternoon activity centered on Kamustahan nan Urogmahan session with their respective batch gatherings. Meanwhile, the evening event of Pagturupar 2024 will likewise feature Alumni Night and Beer Plaza, where other special awards and recognitions will be announced and given. Additionally, the evening activity will also highlight the turnover of donations for Balay Alumni, and a message from Dr. Michael Angelo D. Brogada of Batch 1999 as this year’s grand reunion’s guest speaker. (SorSU PIO)
