WEAREMHAM: Class ’99 Alumni Homecoming
A gatsby-themed party-homecoming of Class ’99
The MHAM CM Class of 1999 reunited once again after eighteen years since they graduated in a gatsby-themed party at the Crystal Ballroom, Mandarin Plaza Hotel, Cebu City last June 5, 2017 from 8:00 in the evening until late night.
Organized by event-host couple, DJ Hintzie and Lore Santillan; Dr. Roselle Carla Astillero; and Dr. Jay Borinaga; the ‘MHAMers’, as they call themselves, reconnected once again after leaving the MHAM portals way back in 1999.
Reminiscing their identity as MHAM graduates, the new MHAM Hymn made it more meaningful when it was being played, along with the beautiful memories of their student days.
As most of them were residing from the different parts of the country and abroad, twenty MHAM graduates were able to attend the night event with their fabulous gatsby-style fashion and looks.
Among them was Dr. Terence Sebastian who came from the Cordillera region just to be reconnected with his batchmates after such long years. Practicing Internal Medicine where he is currently residing, he felt so glad for being back to Cebu City.
MHAM CM alumnus, Dr. Terence Sebastian…
“It is admirable to see some of my classmates after so many years and it makes me happy to reunite with them again. It might be a sacrifice on my part but the precious time to be with them once again makes it meaningful”, said Dr. Sebastian.
Each of them was given an ample time to introduce themselves with life’s status and whereabouts.
Gracing the event was MHAM CM Board of Trustees and Corporate Treasurer, Dr. Carlito Astillero, who was then the guest speaker during the Class ’99 graduation ceremony. In his welcome address, he revived their memory taken from his speech eighteen years ago.
MHAM Board of Trustees and Corporate Treasurer, Dr. Carlito L. Astillero, FPSMID, FASCP, PAFP
“I hope you can still remember what I have told you during your graduation rites. I reminded you that there are three elements of education. The first element is the education of the brain followed with the education of the hands and you have proven it as you are now successful practitioners. And the last one, as I welcome you tonight, I also welcome you to open your third element of education, which is the education of the heart. To do that, it is for you to recall that MHAM was with you all the time. MHAM is striving hard to be on top and for the last three consecutive years, we produced board topnotchers and we will continue to upraise the standard of MHAM so that we, the alumni, will always be proud of our Alma Mater” said Dr. Astillero.
This batch 1968 alumnus also urged the alumni to support in building the MHAM Alumni Doctors’ Hospital, as being under-studied at present. Dr. Astillero was also acknowledged for being the lyricist of the MHAM Hymn.
WEAREMHAM: Reunited again
In making their reunion well-blended with a cohesive gatsby-esque look, they invited the MHAM Acoustic band to serenade them, with MHAM alumnus-faculty, Dr. Carlito Astillero Jr. at the bass. To complete, the Fit and Fab Fitness Pole dancers presented four sets of solo performances.
The MHAM Acoustic led by MHAM alumnus-faculty. Dr. Carlito Astillero Jr. at the bass
Breathtaking performances from the Fit and Fab Pole Dancers
CESO Director, Mr. Jarvis Prochina…
As the gatsby-themed reunion made the night worth remembering, a traditional complimentary champagne toast led by the MHAM Community Extension Services Office Director, Mr. Jarvis Prochina, marked the significance of the get together more appealing and engaging.
“For all the memories with the MHAM alumni, I propose a toast of prosperity, health, life and immunity for all of us”, said Prochina before a chorus of “cheers” filled the air.
MHAM alumnus Dr. Warfe Engracia also graced the event and shared his memories with the Alma Mater.
In keeping their spirit alive and active bearing the identity as ‘MHAMers’, an AVP was shown to them with their Alma Mater’s history and how MHAM worked and rebuilt to be on its own towards academic excellence.
A slideshow presententation of throwback memories captured on photos with recorded messages from the other batchmates who cannot attend the event also highlighted their reunion, initiated by batch ’99 DJ Hintzie Santillan. His better half, Lore, was the night’s host.
Event-host Ms. Lore Santillan
A flair bartending exhibition also added color and fun which then ensured visual entertainment to all the attendees and guests.
A moment with flair bartending exhibition
To complete the celebration of friendship along with their respective medical practices, a Medical Mission was held prior to their reunion and their participation was well-acknowledged during the night event with a plaque of appreciation.
MHAM mavens of the field
The Class ’99 homecoming ended the night with fun-filled memories as forever ‘MHAMers’ and are looking forward to see each other again on the Grand Alumni Homecoming on May 2020 with 5O Golden Years of growing from within. (Ana Liza Abao)