UP Law Graduation 2005

April 27, 2005

I was on my way to the UP Film Center for the UP Law Class 2005 Graduation when I took this picture of the oblation partially clothed with a sablay. Officially, it’s a recognition ceremony because the University graduation (held last Sunday) is the one that confers the degree.  But noone ever attends the University graduation (at least, I’ve never been to one and I have 2 degrees from UP and have been in the faculty for the last 5 years).  It’s held outdoors in the ampitheater behind Quezon Hall under the searing heat of the Diliman sun.  The trees that line the Academic Oval provide no respite; this area is devoid of trees.

Anyway,  the College of Law recognition ceremonies was a little different this year.  First, only the faculty marched from the rear of the Film Center — the graduates entered from backstage.  Second, the faculty was placed on-stage looking much like a jury on Survivor.  We were introduced individually and the announcer made it a point to tell the audience what subjects we taught.  I was a bit embarrassing when I heard the word “cyberlaw”  — it’s a term that’s past its prime.  Third,  as mentioned, the graduates appeared on-stage from behind and instead of the usual music, they opted to use a rock song — the title of which I don’t know.  Electric guitars wailing and drums pounding as these lawyers-to-be marched to their seats with the audience. Finally, the Class of 2005 took to the stage and posed with the faculty for a large group picture.  It couldn’t possible fit into one shot and I suspect some digital stitching will be done.
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