Project Greek
by Gabby Moraleda
Brods,
In December 2023, 4 UP North brods – Bong Beredo, Ric Velasco, Ago Romero and
me, after several months of careful deliberation commissioned a professional
survey, a first of its kind, to find out why we are facing very feeble/low
recruitment. The research is NOT meant to provide solutions but to UNDERTSAND
the issues we face – with the goal, collectively (the residents, various alumni
chapters, batches – in the Philippines and abroad) we can derive, define
CONVERGENT sustainable/long-term solutions/approaches to the problem of poor
recruitment.
At this point in time and as we dissect/determine how to proceed, I feel there
are NO right and wrong solutions. Just Good, Better, Best – meaning, if we
remain close and consistent with the study – we should be fine – noting, we –
the residents and the various alumni chapters must act soonest, work in
sync/tandem addressing the fundamental issues brought to light by the study. We
can discuss the best mechanism to do so.
The survey team was led by brods Dave Dela Torre and Darwin Banez, both from the
advertising/marketing profession. Picked to conduct the study (Project GREEK)
was a seasoned professional Ms. Carole Solidum.
The research findings were shared by Ms. Solidum before some brods last Feb 16,
2024 at brod JJ’s office in Pasig. In attendance were; brods Judz Rey, Ago
Romero, Sebastian Justo (resident), Dave Dela Torre (with his lovely wife),
Darwin Banez, Dennis Belmonte, Shawn Buyco, JJ Jayme and me. In virtual
attendance were brods; Danny Lachica and Ivan Fojas.
Also with us were LC Shari Oliquino and another LC (whose name, I am unable to
recall).
Some key points that stand out to me are:
a.The emphasis on academics by the students.
b. There is a desire to be a part of a support group in campus that
enhances personal development.
c.The image of fraternities runs counter to their expectations of
nurturing cause-oriented issues.
d.Hazing/Campus Violence is a concern.
e.There is a big doubt that Fraternities really espouse Brotherhood.
f. Beta Sigma is “out of their Radar Screen” with NO awareness.
The complete survey "Proj-GREEN", a PowerPoint presentation, is in
Protected Sites. The results are indeed revealing.
The study is meant to be shared to all alumni groups/brods – for whatever
productive/positive action it can bring. I have talked with brod Norman to post
the study on the UPBSI-International website. It has to wait because brod Norman
is in Manila and will return to the US in April. So, feel free to share with
others. I have shared with other brods from UP North.
Your thoughts?
Gabby
