SIGMA DELTA PHI ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION

On February 24, 1931 Sigma Delta Phi (SDP) was founded at the University of the Philippines (UP) – then located in Manila – by Gloria Lucero, Alicia Palma, Lourdes Paredes, and Louisa Stevenson. They had been selected from among outstanding members of the UP Women’s Club by Dean of Women Catalina Abad Santos-Manguera. In 1933, UP recognized the Sorority with its 22 Charter Members, which included the founders except Santos-Manguerra who had passed away. Lourdes Paredes was SDP’s first Grand Archon (GA). 

Led by GA Editha Lazo-Arambulo Batch ’53, SDP recognized its Los Baños Chapter in 1955.  There were initially 37 members, selected through the efforts of Emma P. Juliano ’51, who became the first Los Baños GA.  Just as the founders had done in 1931, Emma ‘51 brought in coeds who had high academic performance, talent in the arts, leadership potential, and presence on campus.

Sigma Delta Phi Alumnae Association (SDPAA) was formed in 1971 to sustain “Sisterhood for Life.” Prompted by Diliman’s GA Nelia Sancho ’68 and assisted by Monalisa Marapao-Lacanlale ‘68, Cota Deles-Yabut ’48 became the moving force to reach senior sisters. On January 16 that year, a large gathering of alumnae assembled at the home of Celia Diaz-Laurel ’48. There, they voted to establish SDPAA and to elect Celia ‘48 Founding President for a two-year term. She was followed by Cota ‘48 who, from 1973 to 1979, led the new organization towards stability. The SDPAA currently has three chapters in the United States.

While adapting to constantly changing contexts, SDPAA remains steadfast in its resolve to “form a strong bond of friendship,” promote a convivial atmosphere centered around the arts, and stimulate informed social and intellectual action. “Cor Unum, Via Una” – one in mind, one in heart, one in communion of the spirit – is the Sorority’s motto. For its dynamic members, that means the bond of sisterhood brightens a nurturing, lifelong journey.

Sisters United in the Journey

Purpose

The purpose for which said Association is formed is to foster unity, sisterhood and close  cooperation among members, consistent with the values and ideals of the Sigma Delta Phi Sorority of the University  of the Philippines, and in so doing, pursue the commitment to intellectual growth, individual worth and service to humanity, maximize its inherent task of extending a greater degree of support to the University of  the Philippines System and develop the love of arts and work for the preservation of the Filipino heritage, culture and environment.”  (Articles of Incorporation, as amended on March 18, 2006)

(Left to Right) Maribel Cabrera ’75, Vangie Abella ’90, Dinah Ventura ’89, Ebette Palma ’68, Mona Lacanlale ’68, Marife Zamora ’68 (Inducting Officer), Marife Recinto ’83, Bing Roldan ’98, Nikki de Vega ’97 and Kaye Celera 2000.

• Mona Lacanlale ’68, Chairperson and President
• Nikki de Vega ’97, 1st Vice President for Membership
• Francia Jessica Motos Roldan ’98, 2nd Vice President for Education, Culture & UP Affairs
• Maria Fe Recinto ’83, 3rd Vice President for Social Action
• Jo Kristine Gerona Celera 2000, Secretary
• Elizabeth Hermosisima Palma ’68, Treasurer
• Evangeline Balba Abella ’90, Chapter Relations Liaison
• Dinah Sabal Ventura ’89, Public Realations and Communications Officer
• Maribel Guevara Cabrera ’75, Head Executive Officer