RV10: The Musical has taken the stage by storm, wowing audiences with its infectious energy, incredible talent, and a whole lot of heart. This wasn’t just any musical—it was a dazzling celebration of RVRC’s 10th anniversary, showcasing the vibrant spirit of the community and the priceless contributions of RVRC alumni. From the first word on the page to the final bow, this production was a true labour of love. It brought together a powerhouse cast of current students and alumni, each adding their unique flavour to the show. The result? A performance that felt like one big family reunion, with performers connecting across generations to create something extraordinary.

Lee Jie Xuan, a Year 2 student at RVRC and dancer in the show, summed it perfectly: “Being part of the RV10 cast was amazing! I was so grateful to meet so many RVRC seniors and alumni from different years!”

The casting process was a celebration in itself - a testament to RVRC’s strong sense of community. Alumni returned to lend their talent, experience, and passion, while current students took the lead in choreography, injecting the show with a dynamic energy that kept audiences on their toes. Original music composed for the production added a fresh, unforgettable touch, with catchy tunes that had everyone humming long after the curtain fell.

For director Loh Jean Way (RVRC alumna, Science ’24), the project was a deeply personal journey. She reflected, “This journey taught me the true meaning of dreaming big and believing in yourself, even when it felt like no one else did. It reminded me that trusting the process and persevering is key. Most of all, it showed me how the arts have this incredible power to bring people together and create something magical.”

The show’s success was only possible thanks to the tireless support and expertise of RVRC alumni. Whether in directing, choreography, or marketing, their dedication made RV10 a hit, drawing enthusiastic crowds from RVRC and the wider community. The buzz was real, and the show delivered, earning rave reviews and standing ovations. Chan Wan Ting (RVRC alumna, Design and Engineering '22), shared, “I loved how the plot was so relatable - it brought back so many memories for all of us!”

Ultimately, RV10: The Musical was more than just a performance - it was a jubilant celebration of RVRC’s 10 years of creativity, collaboration, and community. It was a shining example of what happens when talent, passion, and alumni connections come together to create something truly unforgettable. The show not only celebrated the past but also set the stage for the future, leaving behind a lasting legacy that will inspire generations to come.

The National University of Singapore (NUS) Alumni Network Manila participated in the NUS Alumni Homecoming 2024 held at the University Town (UTown) of NUS Kent Ridge Campus.

Representing the Manila chapter were Chapter Chairperson Mr Richard Tan (Public Policy ’13), Euben Paracuelles (Arts & Social Sciences ’13), Zoe Villanueva (Engineering ’03), Simonette Santos (Science ’03), Dennis Capuyan (Business ’09), Jika David (Business ’09), Mariliza Villarosa-Kalaw (Policy’ 11), Christopher Daguimol (Arts & Social Sciences ’11), Zachary Dominguez (Engineering ’20), Jon Sanchez (Design and Environment ’21), Jeanette Aquino (Design and Engineering ’22), Leandro Cuevas (Design and Engineering ’22), Nicholas Canete (Computing ’23), and Steven Chua (Computer Science ’24). Joining them were Public Policy ’25 student volunteers Kenneth Dingal, Arvin Matias, and Carleen Reyes.

One of the key highlights for the Manila chapter was hosting the Manila Alumni & Friends Event. This gathering connected Filipino alumni currently residing in Singapore or alumni from other countries who wish to connect with alumni in the Philippines.

Held at the Stephen Riady Centre in UTown from 11:00 am to 11:45 am, the Filipino NUS alumni were warmly welcomed by Mr Tan, who expressed gratitude for their presence. He provided an overview of the Manila chapter’s formation, activities over the years, and significant engagements, including two visits by NUS Chief Alumni Officer (CAO) Ms Ovidia Lim-Rajaram (Arts & Social Sciences '89) during her first year in the role.

One of these visits was for NUS alumni to meet the University of the Philippines President Atty Angelo Jimenez (Public Policy’13) in August 2023. Another was for the inaugural NUS Innovation Forum (NIF), held in Manila in May 2024. Mr Tan also emphasised the chapter’s ongoing collaboration with the Singapore Embassy in Manila, including the alumni’s involvement in the embassy’s Singapore National Day reception and gatherings with the ambassador.

The highlight of Homecoming 2024 was the Homecoming Lunch, held at the Cinnamon-Tembusu College Dining Hall from 12.00nn to 2.30pm. In his keynote speech, NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye (Science ’85) reminded the alumni that NUS stands on the brink of its 120th year: “We can reflect with pride on our journey. Today, we are a leading global university with a strong reputation for research and education. I encourage all alumni to contribute to our vision of NUS as a leading global university, shaping the future. Consider opportunities for mentorship, volunteering through NUS Cares, creating internship placements, or speaking to prospective and current students”

In her speech, Ms Lim-Rajaram expressed appreciation to Mr Tan for his support and advocacy of NIF Manila, as well as his dedication in organising numerous alumni activities over the years: “Earlier this morning, the Manila Network hosted a gathering for alumni from the Philippines who are currently in Singapore, or who wish to connect with alumni in the Philippines. This is a beautiful example of the connectivity of our community and NUS’ reach beyond geographic boundaries. Thank you, Richard, for making the effort to be here today.”

The Manila chapter is excited about contributing to NUS120 and eagerly anticipates its participation in next year’s celebrations!