The University of the Philippines Alumni Association (UPAA) hosted the inaugural UPAA President’s Golf Cup on December 14, 2023 at Wack Wack Golf and Country Club in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila. With the theme "Pumapalo Para sa Bayan" (Swinging for the Nation), this highly anticipated event is more than just a day on the greens—it's a powerful fundraising initiative aimed at supporting the association's priority projects under its flagship program, 4Es CONNECT.
UPAA President and UP Alumni Regent Robert Aranton emphasizes that the tournament offers UP alumni and friends a unique opportunity to combine fun and philanthropy. The participants’ participation contributed directly to UPAA’s mission of empowering graduates to excel in their careers and make meaningful contributions to the nation.
The 4Es CONNECT initiative stands for Experiential Education towards Employment and Entrepreneurship Ecosystem and focuses on fostering collaboration, mentorship, skills development, and entrepreneurship. The acronym CONNECT outlines the program’s comprehensive strategy:
Proceeds from the tournament were directed toward key projects, including the relaunch of the UPAA website, the revival of the Botika ng Alumni, the creation of internship and job search platforms, and the enhancement of existing scholarship programs. These initiatives are designed to provide comprehensive support for students and alumni, aligning with UPAA’s vision of holistic development.
Several leading companies have pledged their support for the President’s Golf Cup, recognizing the alignment of the association’s programs with their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Among the sponsors are Manila Water Corporation, More Electric and Power Corporation, Manila Electric Company, Makati Development Corporation, Prime Metro BMD Industrial Services Corporation, and Pacific Paint (Boysen) Philippines.