Remarks of Consul General Corazon L. Belmonte-Jover
First Alumni General Meeting
UP Alumni Association - Hong Kong Chapter
11 June 2005
I almost made it to the
University of the Philippines. During our time, there was only one
university of worth – at least that was how my aunts, uncles, my
relatives, looked at colleges and universities then – UP beloved – and UST
came not so very close second.
That may no longer be true for
many who have graduated from other schools, but UP graduates are still
held in very high esteem in all parts of the world.
There seems to be good reason
for this – UP graduates, majority anyway exhibit bold confidence,
intellectual integrity, moral courage, nationalism, the willingness to
risk, the ability to think big and do great things.
For example – it would be a UP
graduate who would quote from a philosopher – “a journey of a thousand
miles….begins with one step.” And in the same breath quote another
pilosopo saying “a journey of a thousand mile….is better in a car.”
But of course, Ateneans would
say this better in their Cicero-like American accent.
That you have decided to get
together and join hands, minds, talents, and resources will definitely
wield some power. If well directed I have no doubt that you will achieve
what you will set out to do. I read three objectives for this chapter –
they reflect a serious concern for the University’s future, its present
role in Philippine society, as well as its graduates.
I would like to think that
certain objectives, unsaid and implicit, those that are in the heart and
minds of each and everyone of you, are concerns much wider than the
University – how you, as a collective entity, can make a real difference –
where you live, in Hong Kong – where you or your children may return to in
the future – the Philippines – among our fellowmen.
I have nothing more to say, but
to thank you for inviting me tonight for this very special event – a
special beginning. It is both a pleasure and privilege to induct the newly
elected officers of this group.
Congratulations to you all –
Plato would probably say, as he said of the philosopher king – May your
association lead, may it help light the way.
Thank
you.
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