By: Ira Anastasia Acierto
Photo courtesy of Roni Calupitan/The LANCE With reports from Maverick Rhoy De Vera / The LANCE
On November 15, 2025, Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Manila opened its doors to welcome its alumni for the 108th Grand Alumni Homecoming. More than a simple gathering, this event was a heartfelt reunion celebrating decades of shared memories, unbreakable bonds, and the enduring spirit of the Knights.
The day was marked by meaningful ceremonies, inspiring stories, and a renewed sense of community—the hallmarks of Letran’s enduring legacy.
A Spirit of Reflection and Tradition
The celebration commenced with a solemn Eucharistic Mass at the Colegio Chapel. This opening moment set a reverent tone, emphasizing the spiritual roots that underpin the institution.
Alumni, from jubilarians to fresh graduates, gathered in prayer to honor the institution’s legacy and remember those who have long since passed. This spiritual act underlined the importance of faith and community in strengthening the bonds that tie all Knights together.
Following the Mass, a formal program took place at the school grounds. The program featured uplifting speeches, recognition of milestone batches, and cultural performances that showcased Letran’s rich heritage.
Atty. Hansel Tillman, President of the Letran Alumni Association, expressed the community’s dedication: “By hook or by crook, we really moved heaven and earth to have this 108th homecoming. It was important for us to bring the Knights back to their alma mater.”
His words underscored the profound commitment to maintaining this cherished tradition amid challenges.
Honoring Legacy and Milestones
A distinctive feature of the event was the recognition of jubilarian batches, those celebrating significant anniversaries such as the 25th and 50th years. Alumni were called on stage to receive tokens of appreciation, symbolizing the continuity of the Knight spirit.
Barbie Atienza, a proud alumni, shared his thoughts, “The tradition of honoring our jubilarian batches is vital. Regardless of the challenges, I hope we keep this going. It’s a way to remember where we came from and celebrate everyone as part of one big family.”
This act of honoring milestone batches reinforced the unity among alumni and their shared pride in their alma mater.
An Intergenerational Gathering
Throughout the day, alumni from various generations relived their college days and reaffirmed their lifelong connection to Letran.
Alicia Abuel Mendoza reflected on her experience: “Homecoming came as a grand celebration, with free food and drinks, but what truly mattered was the fellowship and the feeling of belonging that the event fostered.” Her words captured the essence of the event, community and camaraderie that transcend the passage of time.
Meanwhile, conversations during interviews with The LANCE revealed the resilience of the Letran spirit.
Dennis Lazo Caasi described the post-pandemic homecoming as “a beautiful celebration of life and reunion, reminding us of the strong community we belong to, especially after a long hiatus.”
For senior alumnus Joey Avedaño, the event was a “reboot” of his Knight identity: “It brings back all the memories and happiness, something that stays with you and motivates you to be a better version of yourself.”
Celebrating Culture and Connection
Cultural presentations and shared stories added vibrancy to the event. Alumni enthusiastically sang the Alma Mater, reminiscing about their school days and strengthening their collective identity.
Food booths and interactive activities fostered a lively atmosphere, giving alumni opportunities to forge new friendships and rekindle old ones. “Homecoming is not complete without cheering, singing, and seeing familiar faces—across batches, everyone feels like a brother,” Barbie Atienza shared, emphasizing the event’s warm, familial atmosphere.
Building New Bonds for the Future
Recognizing the importance of engaging the younger alumni, the association has initiated small, frequent get-togethers for recent graduates.
Atty. Hansel Tillman explained, “We want Knights to feel part of the family at every stage of their journey, not just during milestone reunions.”
These efforts aim to sustain the bond beyond traditional five-year or twenty-five-year reunions, ensuring that the spirit of community remains vibrant and alive.
A Legacy That Endures
As the day drew to a close, it was clear that the 108th homecoming had reinforced Letran’s timeless legacy—a community built on shared values, lifelong friendships, and a collective aspiration for excellence.
The event captured this sentiment perfectly, that the homecoming is not merely an event, but a vibrant testament to the lifelong bonds and shared ideals that unite all Letran alumni— Once a Knight, always a Knight.
To conclude, Letran’s 108th Alumni Homecoming was a true celebration of heritage, faith, and community. It reminded everyone that the spirit of the Knights continues to thrive through the enduring bonds forged within this storied institution.
As alumni walk back into their lives, the memories and the spirit of Letran will undoubtedly motivate them to uphold the values that make them lifelong Knights.