I have just read Simon’s Graduation Thoughts posted at http://blackboard.prepys.com and I got so amused and inspired by it that I thought of writing this piece too.

I find it unfortunate that my blog mate does not remember his college Alma Mater song, which makes me ponder - “where is your loyalty my boy?” Lol! (no offense meant, dear Simon.. hehe =>).

I graduated way ahead of him, but until now, my Alma Mater song never fails to give me the goose bumps whenever I hum its tune or simply hear others sing it.

More than 20 years after I graduated from UP in Baguio, I attended my son’s graduation in the same school. After the ceremonies, everybody stood for the singing of U.P. Naming Mahal (Our beloved U.P.). And right there and then - I have proved enough -  the U.P. spirit never dies in the heart of a UPian.

U.P. Naming Mahal

         I

U.P. naming mahal

Pamantasang hirang

Ang himig namin, sana’y inyong dinggin

 

Malayong lupain

Amin mang marating

Di rin magbabago ang damdamin

Di rin magbabago ang damdamin.

 

         II

Luntian at pula

Sagisag magpakaylan man

Ating ‘pagdiwang

Bulwagan ng dangal.

 

Humayo’t itanghal

Giting at tapang

Mabuhay ang pag-asa ng bayan

Mabuhay ang pag-asa ng bayan.

Oh my… after “Lupang Hinirang”, this is my next national anthem… =>