OUR STORY
Our Values
WHO WE ARE
The University of the Philippines Alumni Association of San Francisco, Inc. (UPAASF) incorporated in July 1973 in Daly City, California, serves as the premier lead for organized activity of the University of the Philippines alumni circle in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Honor & Excellence
Husay at Dangal
Over the past five decades, UPAASF has grown into a vibrant organization dedicated to fostering a strong community among UP alumni in the San Francisco Bay Area. The association is known for its commitment to educational support, cultural enrichment, and community service, reflecting the values of honor and excellence that define the University of the Philippines.​
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Leadership & Service
Panugot at Lingkod
UPAASF celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, marking five decades of dedication to community service and the promotion of Philippine culture in the Bay Area. The organization has been instrumental in raising funds for UP, including supporting the renovation of the Kalayaan Residence Hall, a significant dormitory for freshmen students that plays a crucial role in community building within UP. UPAASF also facilitates networking and mentoring opportunities for alumni, emphasizing leadership and community development.
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Community & Culture​
Bayanihan at Kultura
UPAASF has been robust in its mission towards community involvement and the sustainability of Filipino values and cultural traditions through its Annual Filipino Cultural Immersion Camp, members mixers, webinars, and other community projects. We respond, as a group or as individuals, to calls for collaboration for the broader aspect of the community-building in the Bay Area, or relief assistance to the people of the Philippines affected by natural disasters and philanthropic programs in various UP alumni chapters in the Philippines.
We work as
a team​
From its inception, UPAASF focused on creating a supportive network for UP graduates in the Bay Area. The organization became known for its cultural programs, community service, and fundraising efforts. One of its long-standing traditions is the Annual Filipino Cultural Immersion Camp, which educates younger generations about Filipino heritage, traditions, and values.
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Major Programs
& Initiatives
01
Filipino Cultural Immersion Camp
One of UPAASF’s flagship programs is its Annual Filipino Cultural Immersion Camp, which aims to introduce young participants to Filipino culture, heritage, traditions, and values. The program includes activities such as language lessons, cultural workshops, and discussions about Filipino history and traditions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Filipino identity among the youth. This program has consistently played a crucial role in keeping Filipino heritage alive among the youth in the diaspora​.
02
Alumni Mentoring Program
In 2023, UPAASF launched an innovative online mentoring program in collaboration with UP Diliman’s Office of Student Development Services. This program connects UP Diliman students with seasoned professionals from the San Francisco Bay Area, providing career guidance, design thinking sessions, and strategic planning to help students chart their professional futures.
03
Fundraising and Philanthropy
The association has been actively involved in fundraising efforts, such as golf tournaments, to support various causes, including the renovation of facilities at UP and disaster relief efforts in the Philippines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, UPAASF provided critical assistance to the Philippine General Hospital, supporting healthcare workers, medial front-liners and students during a time of need​.
04
Community Engagement and Cultural Promotion
Over the years, UPAASF has been actively involved in promoting Filipino culture in the Bay Area through various events such as cultural nights, Filipino food festivals, and holiday celebrations. These events serve not only as fundraisers but also as platforms to showcase Filipino heritage, fostering socio-cultural development and interaction between alumni and the local community.