CHEROKEE, North Carolina — Engr. Virgilio “Virgil” Aoanan has been elected president of Kabalens International (KI) for 2026–2029, giving him the mandate to lead the organization as it prepares for the Centennial of Mary Help of Christians Seminary (MHCS) in Binmaley, Pangasinan, in 2029.
Aoanan was elected during the 2026 Kabalens International Reunion held September 25–27 at Harrah’s Cherokee in North Carolina.
Author, journalist and KI member Melandrew T. Velasco nominated Aoanan during the organization’s business meeting. Former KI President Dr. Jose Sibal seconded the nomination, which was unanimously approved by the Kabalens present.
Aoanan succeeds KI President Dr. Melchor de Guzman who spearheaded the biennial gathering.
Aoanan’s three-year term is considered significant as it will culminate in 2029, when MHCS marks its 100th anniversary.
A veteran civil and structural engineer, Aoanan founded VCA Engineers in 2003 and has more than four decades of professional experience in Southern California. He is licensed in both civil and structural engineering, his expertise covers site planning, stormwater management, seismic retrofit and construction administration.
His professional portfolio includes airports notably the LA’s Bradley International Airport, schools, hospitals, parks and public works projects across Los Angeles, Orange County and other parts of Southern California.
The Cherokee reunion served not only as a gathering of former seminarians and their families but also as an initial platform for discussions on KI’s participation in the historic MHCS Centennial.
“Kabalens,” the endearing name for MHCS alumni, have maintained their bonds of friendship and brotherhood despite being scattered across the United States, the Philippines and other parts of the world.
Velasco also proposed the formation of a “Committee of One” composed of KI past presidents to assist Aoanan and the organization in preparations for the Centennial.
The initiative seeks to harness the institutional memory, experience and networks of former KI leaders while supporting the incumbent leadership in mobilizing Kabalens worldwide.
Among the priorities envisioned in the three-year run-up to 2029 are reconnecting with alumni, documenting the history and contributions of Kabalens, remembering deceased members, strengthening ties with MHCS and determining how overseas alumni can contribute meaningfully to the Centennial and the seminary’s continuing mission.
The MHCS Centennial is expected to celebrate not only the history of MHCS but also its century-long contribution to the formation of generations of young men in faith, discipline, fraternity and service.
