The Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity, Letran Manila Chapter, has a proud legacy that began on August 27, 1977. Becoming a recognized member of this esteemed chapter is not just a simple process; it is a journey that demands dedication, loyalty, and the fulfillment of specific rites that have been respected for generations.
The Path to True Brotherhood
To earn the honor of being called a Triskelion of the Letran Chapter, one must undergo a rigorous and meaningful process:
- Sponsorship and Screening: Every aspiring member, known as an “Alexis,” must first find a sponsor—a recognized Triskelion of the Letran Chapter. This sponsor vouches for the candidate, who is then subjected to a thorough screening to assess their character, background, and suitability for the fraternity’s values.
- Initiation Rites: Initiation is not merely a rite of passage; it is a transformative experience. It is a test of physical, mental, and emotional strength that forges a deep bond between the candidate and the fraternity. The details of this process remain closely guarded, but it is universally recognized as a cornerstone of true Triskelion membership.
- Acceptance by Chapter Members: Completing the initiation is just the beginning. The candidate must be formally welcomed and accepted by the existing members of the Letran Chapter. This acceptance is often marked by a welcoming ceremony, a powerful affirmation of the candidate’s new status as a legitimate member.
- Active Participation: True membership is an ongoing commitment. A recognized Triskelion actively engages in chapter activities, meetings, and fraternity events, continuously proving their dedication and loyalty. It is through this engagement that one sustains one’s standing within the fraternity.
By adhering to these steps, individuals earn their rightful place within the Tau Gamma Phi Letran Chapter. This journey is not just a series of steps but a path to becoming part of something greater—a brotherhood that stands for honor, integrity, and unity.
The Threat of the “Colorum”
However, there are those who tarnish this sacred journey. A group of individuals from the 1983 batch falsely claimed affiliation with the Letran Chapter, even though they had neither undergone proper initiation nor been officially welcomed. These individuals are the “Colorum” of the Letran Chapter—illegitimate claimants who have never earned the right to call themselves Triskelions of Letran.
Who are these pretenders? Some are recognized as legitimate Triskelions from other chapters but have never been welcomed by Letran Manila. Others remain unverified to this day:
Legitimate Triskelions from Other Chapters (Unwelcomed by Letran):
- Jay Ricamora
- Ayo Nones
- Gabriel Iremedio
- Daimos Dizon
- John Joel Sanchez
Unverified Claimants:
- Jonas Marasigan
- Angelo Kapunan
- Andrew Wee
- Noel Crisostomo
- Nodi Dizon
Verified “Colorum” Pretenders:
- Ogy Cuevas
- Ronnie Del Rosario
- Ariel Panugao (Deceased)
- Jaja Orbeso
- Jose Ever Victa Jamir
- Rod Cunanan
These “Colorum” individuals seek the benefits, status, and influence of being associated with the Letran Chapter without having earned it. Their presence is a direct affront to the integrity of the fraternity, creating distrust, confusion, and conflict within the chapter. They operate outside the recognized and authorized framework, undermining the very values that the Letran Chapter holds dear.
A Call to Preserve Our Brotherhood
Like any chapter of Tau Gamma Phi, the Letran Manila Chapter takes the issue of “Colorum” very seriously. Identifying and addressing these false claimants is not just important—it is essential to preserving the sanctity of our brotherhood. Yet, despite the significance of this issue, the current Chairperson of the Letran Triskelion Alumni Association has failed to uphold the integrity of our fraternity. Instead of correcting this grave injustice, they accept these pretenders as legitimate members.
This betrayal must not stand. The true Triskelions of Letran must come together to protect our chapter’s honor, reaffirm the values that make us strong, and ensure that only those who have rightfully earned their place are recognized as members of our sacred brotherhood. The future of Tau Gamma Phi Letran Manila depends on our vigilance and our commitment to the truth.
Arriba Letran! Arriba Tau Gamma Phi!
By: Gerry Nicodemus
Letran Manila Seniors, 1978 – ‘81
