Ateneo Batch 85 gears up for 2010
(By Chris Zaens, HS’85)

Naga City (30 May 2005) -- Five years to prepare for a homecoming?

The Ateneo de Naga HS Batch 85 does not think they're overdoing it when they launched Urulian 2010, a mobilization for their Jubilee in 2010. Fifty-two members of the batch got together recently at the Bagumbyan campus and committed to begin raising resources for legacy projects they hope to pursue when their batch turns 25 five years from now.

Every member is enjoined to contribute to a fund regularly for the next five years according to his capacity. They project a substantial amount given the time they have to get all their batch mates involved. The mobilization envisions Giving Back projects such as a scholarship program, a faculty development fund, naming rights for a school facility, and development programs for Naga's indigents.

"We'd like to go back in 2010 with something to give back to those who made us what we are now," the Core Group explained during the launch. "We want a meaningful homecoming where we can improve and touch lives. After all, this is what the Ateneo has taught us." The Urulian primer explains that the mobilization is about rekindling the Ateneo spirit of making a difference in other people's lives.

Urulian's message was heeded. Those present made pledges, renewable every year, to move the mobilization forward. Close to half of the batch are now contributing to the fund. The number includes the alumni in Manila and those overseas.

A scorecard was unveiled during the launch. The tool specifies various forms of involvement and targets by which the batch will assess their performance every year. The scorecard includes the number of people contributing to the fund, the amount raised, as well as contributions to the database and Yearbook work. It also measures involvement of their teachers whom they consider as important stakeholders of Urulian 2010.

High School Principal Greg Abonal and high school teacher Jovy delos Trino graced the event that included the unveiling of their official website and the world premiere of their batch song, Kumusta Na? , an original composition of Paul Padillo, HS 85.

Claretian priest James Castro, HS 85, presided over a Mass that begun this reunion of long lost friends. As in every reunion, remembrances abounded.

In the case of the May 28 reunion, the hope of doing something great five years from now was evident.

Batch 85 seems convinced that great things take time to build.