PBB UNITE: The SAM-UP Orientation

THIS IS THE REALITY - With almost 70 participants in Zoom, the Society of Applied Mathematics of UPLB (SAM-UP) successfully wrapped up the “PBB Unite: The SAM-UP Orientation” held last February 5, 2022.

The theme of the event was inspired by a popular reality TV show in the Philippines—Pinoy Big Brother (PBB). With this theme, the members of the organization aimed to introduce to the participants the reality and their experiences when they decided to join the organization.

The participants were welcomed by hosts Daryl Lara, Ziara Panghulan, and Pumas [Big Brother]. The event started with a short prayer led by Mary Ann Llaguno, which was followed by the opening remarks of the current Membership Committee Head, Raeziel Lacostales.

The incumbent Senior Executive, Raizen Estoque, and Executive Secretary, Joenathan Carpio, allowed the participants to get to know the organization more by introducing its history, objectives, events, and achievements throughout the years—in both face-to-face and online set-ups.

Numerous alumni members also attended the orientation. Mr. Albert Ortega and Mr. Joel Herrera shared their personal experiences and lessons they have learned and apply in their current work and personal lives.

“Why SAM-UP? Academic Excellence. Competitive. Prestige and Service. Leadership. Family. Ang SAM-UP ay babalik-balikan - ito ang ating (aking) pamilya sa Los Baños.”

- Bert Ortega-

“Ang SAM-UP ay malaking parte ng buhay ko mula noon hanggang ngayon, pati na rin sa hinaharap. Ang SAM-UP ay hindi lang academic org - tutulungan ka ng SAM-UP na matutunan ang i-enhance ang character at skills mo na magagamit ninyo sa totoong buhay. Kasama na rin dito ang responsibility and accountability.”

-Joel Herrera-

Bea Juliano, an affiliate member, also shared her insights on how SAM-UP opened a new opportunity for her to grow as a student and as a future educator, and allowed her to find a new family inside the university.

“Unti-unti akong na-in love sa SAM-UP…I can feel that I am not alone. Stay true to yourself and surround yourselves with the right people - and for me, that is SAM-UP.”

-Bea Juliano-

Batch Sigma Meraki also showcased their acting skills during the event as they re-enact some of the famous scenes from the said reality show. To top off this semester’s orientation, the event head, Yuan Labuguen from Sigma Meraki, was given the virtual floor for his closing remarks.

The participants did not leave the event empty-handed. Aside from the lessons they gained, they also received numerous prizes from the tasks (games and raffles) provided by Pumas, with the support of Tastes from the Greens Los Baños, in coordination with Polarix, and their co-presenters Lushly and Grizzly.

At the end of the day, the members of the organization and the participants became united as one. Truly, opening the house of Pumas was a success as it allowed the participants to take a glance at the new opportunities waiting for them. #PBBUnite #PumasBigBrother #TatakSAMUP #SAMUPOrye