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ChroniclesThe Spirit of Giving The Spirit of GivingThe Evolution of UE Knights Logo The Evolution of UE Knights LogoSPECIAL REPORTTHE STORY OF THE UE KNIGHTS JUNE 2026HOW THE UE KNIGHTS FRATERNAL ASSOCIATION INC. TURNED COMPASSION INTO ACTION. HOW THE UE KNIGHTS FRATERNAL ASSOCIATION INC. TURNED COMPASSION INTO ACTION.Honoring our Past, Inspiring our Future UE KNIGHTS
Table Of Contents The Shield Forged, The Mission Redefined The Spirit of Giving Warriors to Knights The History of UE Knights Fraternal Association Inc. Brother Rene: Reassigned to the Eternal Command A New Dawn for the UE Knights by the National Commander How UE Knights turned Compassion into Action Testimonial statements from Graduates of Class 2026 The Journey of How UE Knights was formed Tribute to late Rene Villanueva of Class 1979 04 08 12 06 10 Creative Team Editor-in-Chief Creative Director Art Director Writer & Content Creator John Ryuu Ballaran Angela Gabriel Mateo Mira May Cedo Norman Calantuan Website Address www.facebook.com/ueknights 2F, Admin Bldg., University of the East - Caloocan Campus
The Commander’s Corner 04 A FOUNDATION IN STONE For any great structure to survive the storm, its foundation must be absolute. We are proud to announce the official approval of our Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, and the formal issuance of our SEC Certificate of Incorporation. To symbolize this permanence, we have introduced the Membership Red Book. This is not merely a ledger; it is a sacred record of our lineage. Every signature penned within its pages upon oath-taking is a personal covenant to honor, service, and the unbreakable bond of our brotherhood. A FOUNDATION IN STONE For any great structure to survive the storm, its foundation must be absolute. We are proud to announce the official approval of our Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, and the formal issuance of our SEC Certificate of Incorporation. To symbolize this permanence, we have introduced the Membership Red Book. This is not merely a ledger; it is a sacred record of our lineage. Every signature penned within its pages upon oath-taking is a personal covenant to honor, service, and the unbreakable bond of our brotherhood. The Shield Forged, The Mission Defined: A New Dawn for the UE Knights History is rarely made in the absence of friction. It is forged in the heat of challenge, shaped by the hammer of persistence, and cooled by the steady waters of integrity. As we close the chapter on June 2026, the UE Knights Fraternal Association Incorporated (UEKFAI) stands not just as a name on a roster, but as a sovereign, solidified, and unstoppable force. This month, we have not just grown; we have arrived. THE SINEWS OF PROGRESS For any great structure to survive the storm, its foundation must be absolute. We are proud to announce the official approval of our Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, and the formal issuance of our SEC Certificate of Incorporation. To symbolize this permanence, we have introduced the Membership Red Book. This is not merely a ledger; it is a sacred record of our lineage. Every signature penned within its pages upon oath-taking is a personal covenant to honor, service, and the unbreakable bond of our brotherhood.
A Knight’s true worth is measured by his service to those in need. In a powerful display of synergy, we completed the official turnover of relief goods to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). As our primary active partner in Oplan Tabang Mindanao, the PCG stands with us in bridging the gap between intention and impact. We are proving to the nation that the UE Knights do not just talk about "service" — we deliver it to the very shores where it is needed most. 05 THE SHIELD OF TRUTH AGAINST THE SHADOWS OF DISSENT Progress inevitably invites scrutiny, and success often stirs the shadows of the past. Throughout June, our leadership was met with a "manifesto of protest" from a minority of renegade former members — those who sought to halt our momentum after failing to secure a mandate in our democratic elections. They sent their grievances to the highest offices of our university — UE President Dr. Zosimo Battad, NSTP Director Dr. Roger Espiritu, and UEAAI President Dr. Fernando Fernandez. But truth has a way of standing tall. In a resounding and unanimous decision, the UE Alumni Association Inc. (UEAAI) Board of Trustees officially recognized the UEKFAI. This unanimous recognition is a testament to our legitimacy. It sends a clear message: The era of division is over; the era of the UEKFAI has begun. We do not look back at those who try to pull us down; we look forward to the heights we have yet to reach. VALOR IN ACTION: OPLAN TABANG MINDANAO THE ROAD AHEADAs we look toward July, let us carry the spirit of June in our hearts. We have the legal mandate, we have the financial foundation, we have the mission of service, and we have the unanimous recognition of our peers. To every Knight who has stood fast: the shield is forged. The path is clear. Now, let us march. Lualhati! THE ROAD AHEADAs we look toward July, let us carry the spirit of June in our hearts. We have the legal mandate, we have the financial foundation, we have the mission of service, and we have the unanimous recognition of our peers. To every Knight who has stood fast: the shield is forged. The path is clear. Now, let us march. Lualhati!
The UE Knights Fraternal Association Inc. (UEKFAI) traces its humble beginning in 1956, when it was established and founded by Col. Zosimo Balagtas, a product of UE ROTC. Guided by the ideals of brotherhood, leadership, honor, discipline, and service, the organization was created to unite students and alumni of the University of the East into a fraternity dedicated to developing men of character and leaders committed to serving God, country, alma mater, and fellowmen. In its formative years, the fraternity steadily expanded its membership and influence becoming one of the most respected fraternal organizations associated with the University of the East. To establish its legal and corporate identity, the organization was formally registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of the Philippines in 1965 under the corporate name UE Knights Inc. Over the course of seven decades, from 1956 to 2026, the UE Knights has remained steadfast in its mission of producing exemplary leaders and professionals. The organization has become a source of pride for its alma mater having produced numerous distinguished members who have excelled in various fields of endeavor. Among its greatest achievements is its contribution to national service through the development of prominent military officers who have served with honor and distinction in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, as well as in the branches of government service and law enforcement. Equally remarkable are its members who have attained success in the corporate world, serving as chief executives, entrepreneurs, accountants, financial consultants, educators, legal practitioners, and business leaders whose contributions have significantly impacted the country’s economic and social development. A significant milestone in the organization’s continuing journey took place on May 9. 2026, when the members of the fraternity exercised their democratic right and elected a new set of Board of Trustees for the term 2026-2028. This election marked the beginning of a new chapter in the fraternity’s governance and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to transparency, unity and institutional continuity as it prepared to celebrate its historic anniversary. A significant milestone in the organization’s continuing journey took place on May 9. 2026, when the members of the fraternity exercised their democratic right and elected a new set of Board of Trustees for the term 2026-2028. This election marked the beginning of a new chapter in the fraternity’s governance and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to transparency, unity and institutional continuity as it prepared to celebrate its historic anniversary. As the organization commemorates its Platinum Anniversary in 2026, another historic achievement is likewise being celebrated-the restoration of its original and historic corporate identity. Through its registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission, UE Knights Inc., has once again adopted its original and rightful name, UE Knights Fraternal Association Inc., reaffirming its heritage and paying tribute to its founding principles established in 1956. As the organization commemorates its Platinum Anniversary in 2026, another historic achievement is likewise being celebrated-the restoration of its original and historic corporate identity. Through its registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission, UE Knights Inc., has once again adopted its original and rightful name, UE Knights Fraternal Association Inc., reaffirming its heritage and paying tribute to its founding principles established in 1956. 06 The History: UE Knights Fraternal Association Inc.by Norman Calantuanby Norman Calantuan The enduring legacy of the UE Knights rests upon the vision of its founder, Col. Zosimo Balagtas, who believed that true brotherhood transcends generations and that leadership must always be accompanied by integrity, responsibility, and service to others.
The celebration of the fraternity’s Platinum Anniversary will culminate during the Annual Homecoming and Christmas Party in December 2026, bringing together generations of UE Knights from across the Philippines and around the world in a grand reunion of brotherhood, remembrance, and thanksgiving. This momentous occasion will honor the fraternity’s founders, recognize the achievements and contributions of its distinguished members, and renew the commitment of every Knight to uphold the organization’s cherished ideals. Today, the UEKFAI stands as a proud institution and a living testament to decades of unwavering brotherhood, leadership, and service. From its founding in 1956, its incorporation as UE Knights Inc in 1965, the election of a new Board of Trustees on May 9, 2026, and its restoration to its original name in 2026, the fraternity continues to inspire present and future generations of Knights to carry forward its noble legacy and remain steadfast in the service of God, Country, Alma Mater and Fellowmen. “Seventy years of Brotherhood, Leadership, and Service-honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future.” 07 As the UEKFAI celebrates its rich and enduring legacy, the organization’s official emblem has likewise evolved to reflect its journey through the years. The first logo used by the UE Knights Inc., it features the iconic UE shield, flanked by laurel leaves and crossed swords bearing the words “Duty” and “Honor”. The emblem symbolizes the fraternity’s core values of courage, discipline, loyalty, and service. For decades, this logo became the recognizable symbol of brotherhood and the organization’s commitment to producing leaders in the military, government, and corporate sectors. In 2026, coinciding with the restoration of the fraternity’s original corporate name to UEKFAI, the organization unveiled its new and modernized emblem. While preserving the traditional elements of the shield, swords, and the words “Duty” and “Honor”, the new logo adopts a more refined and distinguished design highlighted by a golden Spartan helmet and an enhanced heraldic presentation. The simultaneous use and transition between these two logos in 2026 symbolize more than a change in artistic design. They represent the fraternity’s commitment to honoring its heritage while embracing a renewed vision for the future. The former emblem stands as a tribute to the generations of Knights who built the organization’s proud history, while the new emblem signifies the beginning of a new era under the restored name of the UE Knights Fraternal Association Inc. Together, these two emblems embody the enduring spirit of the UE Knights-an organization rooted in tradition, strengthened by brotherhood, and inspired to continue its mission of producing leaders and men of honor for generations to come. THE EVOLUTION OF THE UE KNIGHTS EMBLEM AND IDENTITY
In times of joy and triumph, brotherhood is celebrated. But it is during moments of pain, illness, and uncertainty that the true meaning of fraternity shines the brightest. The men and women of UEKFAI stand in solidarity with our beloved brother, Constantino “Tante” Gantinao III of Class 1974, as he battles health challenges and undergoes hospitalization, We fervently pray for his speedy recovery, renewed strength, and complete healing. The outpouring of concerns, prayers and financial assistance from our members is a testament to the enduring bond that unites the UE Knights. Beyond our colors, traditions, and shared memories, we are a family-bound by loyalty, compassion, and our unwavering commitment to one another. The Spirit of Giving 08 BROTHERHOOD & COMPASSION FOR CONSTANTINO “RENE” VILLANUEVA III BROTHERHOOD & COMPASSION FOR CONSTANTINO “RENE” VILLANUEVA III How UE Knights turned compassion into action The financial assistance extended by the members of UEKFAI reflects our organization’s core values: Brotherhood, Service, and Unity. Every contribution, regardless of amount, carries with it a message of hope and reassurance that no brother will ever walk alone in times of need. As we continue to uphold the ideals of our founder and the legacy of the UE Knights, let this act of kindness remind us that the true measure of brotherhood is not only in celebrating successes but in extending our hands to those who need us most. The financial assistance extended by the members of UEKFAI reflects our organization’s core values: Brotherhood, Service, and Unity. Every contribution, regardless of amount, carries with it a message of hope and reassurance that no brother will ever walk alone in times of need. As we continue to uphold the ideals of our founder and the legacy of the UE Knights, let this act of kindness remind us that the true measure of brotherhood is not only in celebrating successes but in extending our hands to those who need us most. Photographed by Geraldine Ramel
09 In a continued commitment to service, compassion, and nation-building, UEKFAI successfully conducted Oplan Tabang Mindanao in collaboration with the Philippine Coast Guard. This humanitarian initiative aims to bring relief, hope, and solidarity to our tellow Filipinos in Mindanao who continue to face the challenges of poverty, displacement, and the effects of natural calamities. Through the generosity of our brother knights, partners, and donors, we were able to gather and deliver essential goods, food packs, and relief supplies-- offering not just material assistance, but a powerful message: You are not alone. We are with you. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Philippine Coast Guard for being a steadfast ally in this mission--your partnership ensured the safe and efficient delivery of aid to the communities that need it most. As knights, we live by our motto: UNITY. EXCELLENCE. SERVICE. This is more than a relief operation-this is kapatiran in action. In a continued commitment to service, compassion, and nation-building, UEKFAI successfully conducted Oplan Tabang Mindanao in collaboration with the Philippine Coast Guard. This humanitarian initiative aims to bring relief, hope, and solidarity to our tellow Filipinos in Mindanao who continue to face the challenges of poverty, displacement, and the effects of natural calamities. Through the generosity of our brother knights, partners, and donors, we were able to gather and deliver essential goods, food packs, and relief supplies-- offering not just material assistance, but a powerful message: You are not alone. We are with you. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Philippine Coast Guard for being a steadfast ally in this mission--your partnership ensured the safe and efficient delivery of aid to the communities that need it most. As knights, we live by our motto: UNITY. EXCELLENCE. SERVICE. This is more than a relief operation-this is kapatiran in action. OPLAN TABANG MINDANAO WITH PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD OPLAN TABANG MINDANAO WITH PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD TOGETHER, WE RISE. TOGETHER, WE HEAL. TOGETHER, WE SERVE MINDANAO.
Rene Villanueva April 27, 1958 - May 31, 2026
The men and women of UE Knights Fraternal Association Inc., (UEKFAI) pay tribute to our beloved Brother Knight, Rene Villanueva of Corps G-3, Class Sandigan 1979, who has been called to eternal rest. Brother Rene lived a life exemplifying the ture ideals of a Knight- brotherhood, loyalty, service and compassion. Throughout the years, he remained steadfast in his commitment to the fraternity, extending his hand in friendship and support to countless brothers and sisters. His wisdom, humility, and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on everyone privileged to know him. BROTHER RENE: REASSIGNED TO THE ETERNAL COMMAND IN THE EAST 11 We all came together in solidarity to honor his memory and to extend our heartfelt assistance and prayers to his bereaved family. In moments of grief, the strength of our brotherhood is most evident, reminding us that being a knight is not only about celebrating victories but also about standing beside one another during times of sorrow and loss. The presence of our brothers and sisters during this difficult time reflects the enduring spirit of the UE Knights-a fraternity bound not only by tradition but by genuine concern and love for one another. Our support and assistance to the family of Brother Rene are expressions of our gratitude for his years of camaraderie and service to the organization. Though Brother Rene has departed from our midst, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Knights. His memory shall remain forever etched in the annals of Class Sandigan 1979 and in the hearts of all who called him brother. Photographed by Nica Perez
12The Forge Photo by UE Dawn Every journey begins with a dream, but it is the experiences along the way that redefine what success truly means. For the graduates of Class 2026, their years Warriors to Knights: Graduates of Class 2026 years in college were shaped not only by academic pursuits but also by the discipline, camaraderie, and leadership fostered through ROTC. In this section, our graduates reflect on how their understanding of success has evolved since they first stepped into the university and share the lasting impact ROTC has had on their college life and personal growth. Their stories stand as a testament to the transformation from aspiring warriors into honorable knights, ready to lead with courage, integrity, and purpose. “I endured. I overcame. I conquered. Looking back on my college journey, I realize that every challenge, sleepless night, and obstacle shaped me into the person I am today. Through perseverance and determination, I proved to myself that no dream is too difficult to achieve. Adrian James Tanya Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Class Humagpi 2022 Former Corps S3 I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to UE ROTC for making my college years truly unforgettable. Beyond the drills and training, ROTC instilled in me the values of discipline, leadership, responsibility, resilience, and time management— qualities that continue to guide me every day. Today, as a Project-in-Charge Engineer, I still apply the lessons I learned during my cadet years. The ability to lead a team, make sound decisions under pressure, and manage time effectively are all rooted in the foundation that UE ROTC helped build. To my mentors, fellow cadets, professors, family, and friends— thank you for being part of this incredible journey. This graduation is not just the end of one chapter; it is the beginning of greater opportunities. I carry with me the values, experiences, and memories that will continue to inspire me wherever my career takes me. I endured. I overcame. And today, I proudly graduate.” To my mentors, fellow cadets, professors, family, and friends— thank you for being part of this incredible journey. This graduation is not just the end of one chapter; it is the beginning of greater opportunities. I carry with me the values, experiences, and memories that will continue to inspire me wherever my career takes me. I endured. I overcame. And today, I proudly graduate.”
ROTC profoundly shaped my college life. It instilled in me discipline, resilience, leadership, and the principle of service before self. It taught me to remain composed under pressure, take responsibility for my actions, and lead with integrity even in difficult circumstances. The values I gained as a Cadet Officer enabled me to overcome challenges that extended far beyond the classroom. As I graduate, I do not see this diploma as proof of a perfect journey but as a testament to perseverance. From wearing a battle dress uniform to wearing a toga on graduation day, I carry with me not only academic knowledge but also the character forged through hardship. My journey has taught me that success is not measured by how quickly we reach the finish line, but by the courage, honor, and determination we demonstrate in overcoming every obstacle along the way. To everyone who extended their hand and stood by me during my most difficult moments, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You embodied the true meaning of camaraderie and brotherhood—not merely by standing beside me during moments of success, but by choosing to remain with me through adversity. Your faith in me inspired me to keep moving forward, even when I struggled to believe in myself.”Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Major in Business Management Class Humagpi 2024 Former Corps Commander Millitary Bronze Cross Medal Awardee Military Civic -Action Medal Awardee Military Commendation Medal Awardee 13 Jonathan RodriguezMira May Cedo “I used to view success as a linear path and a predictable sequence where step A automatically led to step B. But that wasn't the case for me. Life tested me, both physically and mentally, forcing me to choose between practicality and passion. Choosing passion is one of the things I now define as success. I see now that success was never linear. Instead, it is a series of stops and turns, and it doesn't reallv end iust because vou achieve a goal. The place where I first truly earned to navigate these twists and turns was in college, through my involvement in ROTC. ROTC was one of the things I was most passionate about. It didn't iust teach me discipline, but it also taught me how to handle myself when thrown into situations I hadn't planned for. It also taught me how important it is to have a support system to lean on. What I learned from that experience is one of the main reasons why I chose to do what I love instead of settling for what is just "okay."' ROTC isn't just about military discipline. It teaches you core values you won't get anywhere else, shaping you into who you'll be.”Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Class Humagpi 2022 Former Assisant Corps S3 “When I first began, I believed success was simply graduating on time with good grades. Today, my definition of success has become much deeper. To me, success means having the courage to keep moving forward despite setbacks, learning from failure, and remaining committed to a purpose greater than myself. My college journey was far from easy. I balanced my academic requirements while carrying leadership responsibilities in the Advanced ROTC Program and serving in the Reserve Force in support of its mission. These responsibilities challenged me to develop discipline, resilience, and a strong sense of accountability as I pursued my education. There were moments when giving up seemed easier than moving forward. Yet every challenge became an opportunity to grow in resilience, accountability, and perseverance. There are many untold stories and experiences that have taught me that true strength is revealed not when life is easy, but when no one is there to carry you, and you choose to keep going anyway. “When I first began, I believed success was simply graduating on time with good grades. Today, my definition of success has become much deeper. To me, success means having the courage to keep moving forward despite setbacks, learning from failure, and remaining committed to a purpose greater than myself. My college journey was far from easy. I balanced my academic requirements while carrying leadership responsibilities in the Advanced ROTC Program and serving in the Reserve Force in support of its mission. These responsibilities challenged me to develop discipline, resilience, and a strong sense of accountability as I pursued my education. There were moments when giving up seemed easier than moving forward. Yet every challenge became an opportunity to grow in resilience, accountability, and perseverance. There are many untold stories and experiences that have taught me that true strength is revealed not when life is easy, but when no one is there to carry you, and you choose to keep going anyway.