Diliman, Quezon City — September 15, 2025

Representatives from the University of the Philippines administration and the Upsilon Sigma Phi Alumni Association, Inc. (USPAA) conducted a joint site inspection of the UP Promenade this morning to address urgent maintenance and improvement needs identified in the recent Promenade Revitalization Report submitted to the USPAA Board of Trustees.

Leading the USPAA delegation was Chairman Eric Gene C. Pilapil ’86, joined by former Chairman Mon Allado ’73, Nico Ong 2023, and a prospective CCTV supplier. Representing UP were Director Oliver of the Campus Maintenance Office, Director Arwin Ledesma of the Public Safety and Security Office, and a representative from the University Computer Center. Also present were Atty. Bernard Pulido and Supervisor Paolo of JSA Builders—the construction firm of Brod Raffy Policarpio ‘76—which holds the UP maintenance contract for the Promenade and is also engaged by the fraternity for work outside the scope of its university agreement.

The inspection addressed several longstanding and recently documented issues:

Electrical and Lighting Repairs.
Sixteen of 22 square lights, 10 of 28 lamp post bulbs, and 12 of 26 standing lights require replacement. Broken sockets and electrical issues will also be assessed and rewired, if necessary. Work is expected to begin within the week to restore full lighting and improve nighttime visibility.

CCTV and WiFi Upgrade.
A proposal is expected within the week from the prospective supplier, covering new surveillance cameras, WiFi routers, and access points. While the hardware will support the CCTV system, no decision has been made on whether public access to WiFi will be allowed. The two existing CCTVs in the area are not currently monitored and may be nonfunctional.

Flooding and Drainage Solution.
To resolve recurring ankle-deep flooding in the tambayan area, JSA Builders will submit a proposal for the installation of two PVC drainage pipes. The improvement aims to redirect stormwater and improve accessibility during rains.

Proposed Guard House.
A meeting is scheduled next week at the Office of the Campus Architect to finalize the design and location of a small guard house at the bottom right of the newly renovated library steps. The structure will house the CCTV monitor, WiFi connection, and electrical breaker panel. Mckoi Pernia ’91 has been asked to coordinate with Mikko Yap ’95 for representation.

Broader Restoration Plans.
Other priorities noted in the revitalization report include cleaning and upgrading benches, replacing broken spotlights at the USP Monument, and restoring six stolen commemorative plaques—now scheduled for reinstallation after the lighting and CCTV systems are completed. Additional proposals include expanding roof coverage and planting greenery to enhance the space.

The inspection reaffirmed the shared commitment of UP and the fraternity to maintain the Promenade as a safe, functional, and symbolic space for fellowship, reflection, and tradition at the heart of the university.