FELLOW OLSHANS,
My warmest greeting to you all on the occasion of the 1ST REUNION OF OLSHANS IN THE USA! By gathering together on this the 30th OF June 2001, you are writing a new chapter in the history of the alumni organization. Verily, the COR UNUM Alumni Organization of OLSHA has gone a long way.
Tracing its roots from a fluid association that sponsored dance events in the 60s, the alumni association matured in the mid-80s into a full-fledged organization with a mission to promote the well-being of its members and our alma mater. Since then, the alumni organization has held a number of homecoming events not only to renew acquaintances but, more so, to forge a stronger unity among its members. In turn, such unity has made it possible for the alumni organization to sustain its projects.
The reunion you are now holding in New York, thanks to the unwavering effort of Ma. Socorro Paulin-Ballesteros, is a necessary step toward broadening the bond that has held us all together until now. I can only wish that more of you had the time to participate in this days event even as I dream of a more organized membership abroad.
I am confident that this occasion can spur the formation of an organization of OLSHAns in the USA.
In all candor, I must say that OLSHAns in the USA, notwithstanding the economic slowdown in that part of the world, are in the best if not enviable position to help financially promote and advance the projects of the alumni organization for the welfare of the majority of its members, and; for the benefit of OLSHA, in particular, and Guimba, in general. If is no secret that when the American economy slows down, economic activities in the rest of the world stop. Unfortunately for us here in the Philippines, the natural and man-made disasters that began with the Asian currency flu of 1997 continue to batter our already crunching economy. The political instability brought about by the threats to the incumbent administration due to the ongoing trial of Erap for plunder and the kidnapping activities of the Abu Sayyaf has pushed us even deeper into the pit of poverty.
There is no doubt that there is much you can do to help! I also have no doubt that you the kind heart in the tradition of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to look after a brother or sister in need. Likewise, I have not doubt that you can live up to the challenge of forming an organization of OLSHAns in the USA, if not in all of North America, not only through which assistance to the project of the alumni organization can be channeled but more so through which unity among OLSHAns in North America can be fostered.
I wish you all the best! Good day and mabuhay kayong lahat!
NELSON F. RENDON
President
