Delta Xi Epsilon Philippines Inc. successfully concluded its First National Sacred Ceremonial Acceptance at the BHFMP Gymnasium of Cotabato Foundation College of Science and Technology (CFCST), Doroluman, Arakan, North Cotabato. The historic gathering brought together 159 collegiate applicants and 17 alumni and professionals from diverse fields, all aspiring to become part of the growing Deltan family. The momentous occasion marked a significant milestone in the organization's history, celebrating unity, commitment, and the enduring ideals of brotherhood and sisterhood. More than a formal acceptance ceremony, the event reaffirmed Delta Xi Epsilon's commitment to building a community founded on mutual respect, intellectual excellence, compassion, and service.
The program commenced with an invocation led by Atty. Kathleen Joy Barachina, one of the eminent founding pillars of Delta Xi Epsilon. This was followed by an inspiring opening message from Lt. Col. Jethro P. Mipaňa, Provincial Officer of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), Agusan del Sur.
In his message, Lt. Col. Mipaňa underscored a fundamental principle that distinguishes genuine brotherhood from destructive traditions: loyalty must never be measured by the amount of physical pain a person can endure. He emphasized that fraternity loyalty should not be established through hazing, barbaric practices, or inhumane initiation rituals, but through intellectual strength, integrity, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the organization's principles. His message reinforced the belief that the worth of a prospective member should never be subjected to the mercy of a paddle or the uncertainty of physical suffering. Rather, true loyalty is demonstrated through the battle of the mind, the strength of one's character, and the willingness to uphold the values of brotherhood and sisterhood long after the ceremony has ended.
The Sacred Lighting and Ceremonial Proceedings:
The succeeding proceedings commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the sacred candle, symbolizing the beginning of a meaningful chapter in the lives of the candidates and their formal introduction to the ideals and responsibilities of being Deltans.
The solemn ceremony was led by the organization's distinguished founding pillars and leaders, namely Hon. Judge Ralph S. Arellano, Executive Judge of the Regional Trial Court, Naic, Cavite; PBGen. Rolando B. Cuya Jr., former Director of the Police Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG); Col. Dave Mejia, Provincial Director of the Camarines Norte Police Provincial Office; and Dr. Dina Padua, Dean of the College of Information and Technology at CFCST, among other distinguished members of the organization. Their participation highlighted the diverse professional backgrounds and collective leadership that contribute to the organization's development and continuing pursuit of excellence.
The presentation of the 159 collegiate applicants and 17 alumni and professional candidates was formally introduced by Engr. Banisard C. Barrios, North Cotabato Grand Archon. Their acceptance was subsequently proclaimed by Atty. Franco Alexander P. Martin, Founding Father and National Supreme Grand Archon of Delta Xi Epsilon Philippines Inc.
The solemnity of the occasion continued with the oath-taking ceremony officiated by Judge Ralph S. Arellano, Senior Deputy National Supreme Grand Archon. Through their oath, the candidates affirmed their commitment to the ideals, responsibilities, and principles of the organization. This was followed by the reading of the Deltan Creed, led by Atty. Ildibrando L. Cornista, Deputy Supreme Grand Archon and Chairman of the Judicial Committee. The creed served as a reminder that membership extends beyond a title or affiliation; it entails a continuing obligation to uphold integrity, respect, solidarity, and responsibility toward fellow Deltans and the wider community.
The proceedings culminated in the ceremonial handshaking of the newly accepted members, symbolizing mutual recognition, acceptance, and the beginning of their shared journey as members of the Deltan family.
Messages of Inspiration from the Founding Pillars The ceremony continued with a series of brief but meaningful messages from the organization's distinguished founding pillars and leaders. Each speaker offered words of encouragement, guidance, and reflection on the responsibilities that accompany membership in Delta Xi Epsilon.
Among those who shared their messages were Lt. Col. Madzdie K. Mukaram, PCapt. Francis John Tac-an, Dr. Marvien M. Barrios, Jamela Billones, Col. Dave Mejia, Atty. Kathleen Joy Barachina, Atty. Ildebrando L. Cornista, Judge Ralph S. Arellano, PBGen. Rolando B. Cuya Jr., and Engr. Banisard C. Barrios.
Their messages collectively emphasized that the true measure of a fraternity or sorority lies not in the number of its members, the prestige of their positions, or the grandeur of its ceremonies, but in the quality of their character, the strength of their unity, and the sincerity of their service to others. The speakers encouraged the newly accepted members to embody the Deltan spirit in their daily lives, demonstrate respect toward one another, remain steadfast in the face of adversity, and recognize that the privilege of belonging to an organization carries with it a corresponding responsibility to contribute positively to society.
A Call to Genuine Brotherhood, Sisterhood, and Service
The program's closing remarks were delivered by PBGen. Rolando B. Cuya Jr., who emphasized the importance of cultivating genuine brotherhood and sisterhood through respect, compassion, and meaningful support. He underscored the need to prioritize the education and academic development of collegiate members, reminding the organization that its student members must remain focused on their studies and future professional aspirations. He also called for a culture of solidarity in which deserving collegiate members and fellow Deltans experiencing financial difficulties, personal struggles, or other adversities in life would receive appropriate encouragement and support. His message served as a timely reminder that brotherhood and sisterhood must be demonstrated through concrete actions rather than mere words. A genuine Deltan does not turn away when a fellow member is struggling, nor does one measure the worth of another by status, wealth, or professional achievement. Instead, a Deltan extends a helping hand, offers guidance without humiliation, and stands beside others with dignity and compassion.
The gathering concluded with a closing prayer led by PMaj. Reynante Pascua, Chief of Police of the Arakan Police Office, bringing the day's solemn and memorable proceedings to a close.
More Than an Acceptance, A Commitment for Life
The successful conclusion of Delta Xi Epsilon Philippines Inc.'s First National Sacred Ceremonial Acceptance represents more than the formal acceptance of 176 candidates into the organization. It signifies the strengthening of a shared commitment to intellectual growth, moral integrity, academic excellence, mutual respect, and service to humanity. As the newly accepted members begin their journey as Deltans, they are reminded that the true significance of membership is not confined to a single ceremony. It is revealed in the choices they make, the principles they defend, the compassion they extend, and the responsibilities they willingly embrace. For Delta Xi Epsilon, the path toward genuine brotherhood and sisterhood is not paved with fear, humiliation, or physical suffering. It is built through education, discipline, loyalty, understanding, and the courage to uplift one another.
“Because being a Deltan is not simply about being accepted into a family, it is about becoming the kind of brother or sister who makes that family worthy of belonging to.”
One bond. One purpose. One Deltan family.
