By Rose Chalice Nacalaban-Cabahug
Contributor
CALL it a hangover.
This, as the recently concluded XUHS Alumni Homecoming dubbed as “Sabado Nights,” are still in the news feed of social media.
Such a celebration drew large attention as close to 3,000 in attendance jampacked in what appeared as the grandest alumni event held at the Limketkai Center Atrium, here.
“Seven years of planning, leading, and inspiring. We only had one day to execute, and it was a success. I felt immeasurable fulfillment for what we have accomplished as a batch,” said host XUHS96 Chairman Niño May Duran.
Sabado Nights was supposed to happen in 2020, but due to the pandemic, it just materialized with more anticipation. “Delayed, but never canceled,” Duran added.
The event celebrated the Golden Jubilarians, graduates of class 1972, 1971, and 1970; and Silver Jubilarians, graduates of 1995 and 1997. It also featured Side A plus exciting raffle prizes including the latest Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4, won by Batch 1997’s Marvin Mercado, and BMW G310R, won by Batch 2006’s Alon D. Navarra.
But it was the 90’s iconic sexy star Ina Raymundo, who rocked the party to the delight of the Alumni, especially when she serenaded five lucky gentlemen. “First time to perform in front of thousands of people since the pandemic and you guys made me feel like it was 1995 all over again. Sabado Night, nostalgia!” she later posted on her Instagram account.
Another highlight of the event was the ceremonial turnover of the “Atchoy” swords as the ritual turnover of responsibilities to batches 1997, 1998, and 1999 as next year’s hosts.
“It was an emotional moment. We felt the devotion and commitment of the entire batch. Everyone helped including our partners. We were incredibly happy and fulfilled that we were able to give our best to serve our alumni brothers and sisters,” XUHS96 Vice-Chairman Tom Dignos said.
Two weeks later, XUHS96 partnered with XUHS97, JCI Bai Lawanen, and Don Antonio Cosin Masonic Lodge to give back thru the gift-giving project Handog Pamasko, yesterday, December 8. Students at Barangay Sugbongcogon and Flood Victims at Sitio San Vicente, Casinglot in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental were recipients of this joint project – truly being men for others.
