WHAT DOES IT mean to be a Bedan? In my three-year tenure in our beloved university, perhaps I can attempt to paint a picture, but one that will eventually find itself to be incomplete. Nevertheless, such a crucial mission can not be glossed over, as it is founded not only upon experience and love, but also critical judgment.
To be a Bedan is to inherit the legacy of those who came before, the ones who have established the walls of an institution that banners excellence. We’ve kept ourselves at the top, brandishing our outstanding board exams at every juncture as a mark of academic merit.
And yet, beyond focusing on the greatly-renowned colleges and departments, it must also be a duty to elevate those treading upon the fringes of obscurity. True excellence is not selective, and neither should we neglect the quiet labor of our peers-whose contributions may not be met with the same acclaim, but no less worthy of recognition.
“The world outside Mendiola may not share our principles, and the values we have fostered may be challenged at every turn. Yet, it is in these moments that the Bedan spirit shines brightest, prevailing against all odds.”
Beyond the realm of academics, our fiery zeal burns just as bright, if not brighter, in the arena. The Bedan spirit not only manifests itself in the utmost intellect but also an indefatigable character, to which our athletes stand as decorated warriors.
We may be mere spectators, but in every article highlighting our celebrated teams, we can immediately observe that they never forget the support of the Bedan community.
Another question then presents itself: where does this support begin and end? It should not merely confine itself to the resounding roars in the coliseum and the ensuing celebrations.
True camaraderie is found in those who persist in spite of defeat. It is the relentless fight and unwavering determination that should be granted recognition. After all, these are the precursor to the trophies .
When all is said and done, the time will eventually come that we must step outside the gates of our institution and face reality headfirst. At this juncture, we’ll likely retire our red paraphernalia and the echoing chants will fade into memory. When we finally face the inevitable conclusion, what will happen to the Bedan spirit?
Unlike our emblems and past echoes, it must remain steadfast, manifesting the sacred Ora et Labora in everything that we do, how we serve and lead in the pursuit of excellence, while never forgetting that every success is a step towards our shared commitment to the common good.
The world outside Mendiola may not share our principles, and the values we have fostered may be challenged at every turn. Yet, it is in these moments that the Bedan spirit shines brightest, prevailing against all odds.