UP Sigma Rho Fraternity

[Honoring the Life, Leadership, and Legacy of Simeon Datumanong † ’54]

The UP Sigma Rho Fraternity honors the life and legacy of Simeon Datumanong † ’54, former Secretary of Justice, Secretary of Public Works and Highways, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Representative of Maguindanao, and former Governor of Cotabato and Maguindanao, on the 91st anniversary of his birth today, June 17, 2026.

Simeon Datumanong † ’54 led a life marked by decades of public service across local, legislative, and executive office. He began his career in local government, serving as Vice Governor and later Governor of Cotabato, before becoming the first Governor of Maguindanao following the province’s creation.

His service to the Filipino people continued in the national legislature, where he served as Mambabatas Pambansa for Maguindanao and later represented the province in the House of Representatives for several terms. He also served twice as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, reflecting the trust and confidence placed in him by his colleagues.

Simeon Datumanong † ’54 likewise held key positions in the executive branch, serving as Secretary of Public Works and Highways and later as Secretary of Justice under former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. In these roles, he helped lead major institutions of government and contributed to public works, justice, and national administration.

Throughout his years in public office, Simeon Datumanong † ’54 became known for steady leadership, public duty, and service to Mindanao and the Republic. His career stood as an example of principled governance, meaningful representation, and commitment to the welfare of the Filipino people.

His life and service embody the Sigma Rhoan ideals of leadership in action, guided by integrity, responsibility, and commitment to the public good. The Fraternity joins his family, friends, colleagues, and the people he served in remembering a life dedicated to public service and nation-building.

For Simeon Datumanong † ’54, Fight!

For the Sigma Rho, Fight!
For the Grand Archon, Fight!

[SIGMA RHOAN FEATURED IN PHILIPPINE LAW JOURNAL VOLUME 99]

The UP Sigma Rho Fraternity celebrates Nikolai Castro ‘18 for the inclusion of his peer-reviewed article in the Philippine Law Journal, Volume 99, Issue 2. The Philippine Law Journal is the official student-run law review of the UP College of Law, and is the premier periodical of Philippine Law.

Nikolai ‘18’s article, “Public Trust in Private Hands?: The Public Trust Doctrine in Public-Private Relationships for Water”, explores how PPPs can operationalize the public trust doctrine, as articulated by Joseph Sax and by the Philippine Supreme Court in Maynilad v. DENR, in water governance and public utilities.

His tenure as the Chair of the Philippine Law Journal Volume 98, and the inclusion of his article in the Philippine Law Journal Volume 99 demonstrates the standards expected by the Fraternity – excellence and leadership wherever they find themselves in. The topic of his article also reflects Nikolai ‘18’s spirit for public service as it tackles the issue of proper water distribution to the people, cementing the Fraternity’s ideals of service to the country.

For Nikolai Castro ‘18, Fight!

For the Sigma Rho, Fight!
For the Grand Archon, Fight!

[TATAK SIGMA RHO: Bringing Joy and Service to Two Community Centers]

On May 23, 2026, the UP Sigma Rho Fraternity conducted two outreach activities at Bahay Aruga in Quezon City and Manila Boystown in Marikina City, continuing its commitment to serving communities beyond the University. Through these visits, the Fraternity spent time with extended assistance to those under the care of both institutions.

At Manila Boystown, the Fraternity organized an afternoon of food, games, and entertainment for the children. Members joined the children in dancing and other activities, fostering an atmosphere of joy and fellowship.

At Bahay Aruga, the Fraternity in coordination with QC Social Services Development Department, donated relief goods to support the elderly residents, sharing not only provisions but also time and companionship with members of the community.

Through initiatives such as these, the Fraternity reaffirms its commitment to service, compassion, and community engagement. The active presence and tangible aid of the Sigma Rho allow it to remain true to its traditions of extending meaningful support to communities and individuals in need.

For the spirit of service, Fight!

For the Sigma Rho, Fight!
For the Grand Archon, Fight!

[SIGMA RHOAN ELECTED TO THE UP LAW STUDENT GOVERNMENT CENTRAL BOARD: Upholding Leadership and Service in the UP Law Community]

The UP Sigma Rho Fraternity proudly congratulates Ferdie Manahan ’21 on his successful election as BGC Day Representative to the UP Law Student Government Central Board for Academic Year 2026–2027.

His election reflects the trust and confidence placed in his leadership and commitment to representing the interests of the student body. As BGC Day Representative, Ferdie Manahan ’21 will help advance initiatives centered on student welfare, representation, and engagement within the UP College of Law community.

As he takes on this role, Ferdie Manahan ’21 continues the Sigma Rhoan tradition of principled leadership, responsibility, and service in student governance, upholding the Fraternity’s enduring commitment to excellence and public service.

For Ferdie Manahan ’21, Fight!

For the Sigma Rho, Fight!
For the Grand Archon, Fight!

[SIGMA RHOAN ELECTED TO SECURITY BANK BOARD: Strengthening Leadership in Banking and Finance]

The UP Sigma Rho Fraternity proudly congratulates Mark Joven ’01 GA ’04 on his election as a Member of the Board of Directors of Security Bank Corporation, following the bank’s annual stockholders’ meeting on April 28, 2026.

A former Undersecretary of the Department of Finance, Mark Joven ’01 GA ’04 brings with him extensive experience in public finance and international development. He previously represented the Philippines on the boards of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, contributing to key initiatives in infrastructure and climate finance.

Mark Joven ’01 GA ’04’s appointment reflects the Sigma Rhoan presence in both public service and the private sector. His addition to the Security Bank board highlights the value of experience in governance, finance, and policy in guiding major financial institutions.

For Mark Joven ’01 GA ’04, Fight!

For the Sigma Rho, Fight!
For the Grand Archon, Fight!