Joy. Laughter. Nostalgia.
For a day, these became the defining sounds and scenes across Mindoro State University (MinSU) Calapan Campus as graduates from different generations returned to the institution they once called home, reconnecting with old classmates and celebrating the legacy they helped build.
Held at the MinSU Calapan Activity Center, Balik MinSU 2026: Grand Alumni Homecoming gathered alumni under the theme "Connecting Ties, Building Legacies," bringing together graduates whose journeys trace the University's own transformation - from its early years as the Calapan School of Arts and Trade (CSAT) in the 1970s, to its years as the Polytechnic College of Calapan (PCC) in the 1990s, to Mindoro State College of Agriculture and Technology in early 2000s and finally to today's Mindoro State University.
The homecoming became more than an opportunity to revisit familiar classrooms and reconnect with former classmates. It also offered alumni a chance to reflect on the institution's growth and the role each generation has played in shaping its history.
Among those who joined the celebration was former former College Administrator Emelito S. Matunan, whose presence reminded alumni of the University's earliest chapters and the milestones that paved the way for its present identity. Former faculty members also joined the event.
In her message, Dr. Enya Marie D. Apostol, University President recognized the alumni as enduring partners in the University's continuing development. She emphasized that while graduates pursue different paths and professions, they remain part of a community whose shared experiences continue to strengthen the institution and inspire future generations.
Earlier in the day, the celebration opened with a motorcade along the major roads of Calapan City, where alumni proudly represented their respective graduating classes through decorated vehicles and batch banners, drawing smiles and waves from residents as decades of MinSU history rolled through the city streets.
The day was filled with entertainment, camaraderie, and excitement through dance performances, interactive games, musical presentations, raffle draws, and fellowship activities that echoed the joyful spirit of the gathering.
Adding excitement to the celebration were the recognition of batches through special awards, including Most Represented Batch, Farthest Travelled Alumni, Best Batch Presentation, Best Decorated Vehicle, and Most Energetic Batch.
One of the highlights of the homecoming was the presentation of the alumni constitution and by-laws, as well as the presentation of the alumni emblem miniature that will be installed at the University's recently inaugurated man-made lake. The emblem symbolizes the unity and generosity of MinSU alumni, whose collective support helped make the landmark project possible and reflects their continuing commitment to the University's development.
The celebration concluded with a community potluck lunch and fellowship, where alumni, faculty members, university officials, and guests gathered around shared tables. Conversations stretched across generations as former classmates exchanged updates, reminisced about student life.
For many who returned, the homecoming was not simply a reunion. It was a reminder that while the University has changed names, expanded programs, and grown through the decades, the connections forged within its campus have remained remarkably enduring. Those ties - strengthened by memory, shared experience, and a commitment to give back - continue to define what it means to be part of the MinSU community. (jdtdc)
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