19/08/2026
Once a Clover, Always a Clover! UP Visayas Biological Sciences Alumni Celebrate Legacy and Mentorship at Successful ‘Clovers’ Homecoming 2026
ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Generations of graduates, retired faculty, and distinguished scientists gathered at the University of the Philippines Visayas City Campus Auditorium on July 24, 2026, as the UPV Division of Biological Sciences Alumni Association celebrated its highly anticipated Clovers’ Homecoming 2026. Centered on the theme "Let’s celebrate our roots. Let’s honor our journey. Let’s build our future!", the grand reunion brought together alumni affectionately known as the "Clovers" to honor decades of academic legacy, mentorship, and scientific excellence in Iloilo City.
The full-day event commenced with the Election of the Clovers Board of Directors, allowing alumni to cast their votes for the association’s incoming leadership. Following official registration, former students gathered to reconnect with peers during the Bingo Socials. Registered attendees received complimentary bingo cards and competed for exciting household door prizes, including microwave ovens, rice cookers, blenders, oven toasters, and electric fans.
The formal program was guided by emcees Dr. Pat Palmes and Dr. Rosana Nobleza-Solidum. Following an invocation led by Dr. Ruel Malata and ceremonial video presentations of Lupang Hinirang and UP Naming Mahal, Dr. Ray Alindong delivered warm welcome remarks to the returning crowd. UPV Chancellor Dr. Clement Camposano presented a special message emphasizing the vital contributions of biological sciences alumni to national and institutional development, followed by an inspiring keynote address from Dr. Minda Formacion, former Chancellor of UP Visayas and former Chairperson of the Division of Biological Sciences. Current Division Chairperson Dr. Diana Paguntalan then introduced the existing faculty members who continue to shape the next generation of scientists.
As the gathering progressed, attendees enjoyed dinner, batch roll calls led by batch coordinators, and a heartwarming video retrospective showcasing decades of alumni photos and memories. A cornerstone of the gathering was the recognition of retired faculty members, who were awarded Certificates of Appreciation by Dr. Ray Alindong and the present Clovers Alumni Board in honor of their dedicated mentorship. The event also featured the formal oath-taking of the newly elected Clovers Alumni Board, inducted by Dr. Minda Formacion, before concluding in high spirits with an intermission number and the signature "Dance Presentation by Decades," where batchmates took to the stage to celebrate their enduring bond under the unifying motto, "Once a Clover, Always a Clover."
The successful homecoming was organized through the dedicated efforts of the Program Committee, comprising Dr. Patricio Palmes, Dr. Agnes Jean Maleficio-Villafor, Dr. Rosana Nobleza-Solidum, Dr. Allyn Joy Leonidas, and Dr. Ruel Malata. Through their leadership and the strong turnout of past and present scholars, the celebration successfully reaffirmed the UPV Division of Biological Sciences Alumni Association’s commitment to fostering lifelong connections, supporting student excellence, and honoring the deep roots of its biological sciences community.
