Tenets, History ,Principles, Codes and Passwords of the Samahang Ilokano (SI) Fraternity
The Confederation of Ilocano Association, Incorporated, Samahang Ilokano (CIASI) or Samahang Ilokano (SI) is a fraternity and sorority composed of students from colleges and universities in the northern part of the Philippines. Members are either of Ilocano lineage and/or have the capability of speaking and understanding the Ilokano dialect.
Early days and conflicts
Samahang Ilokano was originally founded in the late 1950s as a fraternity for unity between Ilocano students. Students from Ilocos Norte/Sur and other provinces in Northern Luzon would pursue higher education in universities away from home and seek fellow Ilocanos for company and protection.
Soon enough the fraternity grew in number, which attracted scrutiny from other fraternities. Having a large quantity of members also sparked uncontrollable brawls and riots, some of which landed several members in prison. The Genuine Ilocano Gang (GIG) was formed as a group for SI members who were incarcerated, and soon accepted members from within the prison.
Power struggles within the fraternity led to further separation of members. Hence, the birth of another faction now known as United Ilocandia Fraternity/Sorority (UI). The lack of organization created tension between the three groups.
Unity and expansion
During martial law, the leaders and founders of the different groups (with the presence of Ferdinand “Bong-Bong” Marcos, Jr.) agreed to unite the three organizations. This led to the creation of an umbrella organization, registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the name "Confederation of Ilocano Association, Incorporated" as a non-stock, non-profit and non-dividend corporation. (Members of the UI and GIG often do not associate with this name, and instead prefer their respective original faction names.)
Most members of CIASI became professionals, which gave the opportunity for the group to diversify into factions of the following types within the organization: international, military, professional, women's auxiliary, out-of-school youths, and students.
Despite significant changes within the structure, the ultimate purpose of the Samahang Ilokano still stands: an organization to cradle the Ilocanos.
Programs
- Promote excellence among its members through brotherhood;
- Undertake projects and activities that shall enhance the abilities and potentials of members;
- Encourage the promotion of sports development projects and support the program of the government;
- Initiate educational seminars, civic & social welfare action and manpower training services;
- Promote discipline, unity and cooperation among members;
- Initiate and undertake civic and humanitarian officers for their re-outstanding achievement;
- Sponsor sports festival activities, leadership training, seminars and symposiums for its members;
- Conduct fund-raising campaigns and accept grants and donations to support its projects;
- Sponsor scholarship program for its members;
- Extend assistance to its members financial or in kind, including job placement whenever possible.
The Seal
- The dove symbolizes peace, freedom and friendship.
- The laurel leaves highlight our aspirations for academic and professional excellence.
- The gear provides the aspirations for the development of our potentials in various fields of endeavor.
- The snake symbolizes new life, the power to conquer fear, and the ability to survive.
- The arrow pointed upward, recognizing our Supreme Creator.