Society’s life is inextricably linked to the unwavering service we render to our fellow Spectra. For this reason alone, it will never exist aimlessly.” –Atty. Donn Frank Rabanes
The Where We Came From
Societas Spectra Legis, more popularly known as Spectra, is a fraternity/sorority in the University of San Carlos - School of Law and Governance. Donn Frank Rabanes, then a USC law student, realiz
ed that the demands and pressure of law school is too much for one student to bear. With the help of some of his fellow law students, now lawyers, Atty. Rabanes then formed the society on October 17, 2001. What started out as a humble ambition grew into a steadfast organization, which up to now tirelessly and unceasingly aims for greater heights. The name “Spectra” pertains to the series of colored bands which are diffracted and arranged in order of their respective wavelengths by the passage of a white light through a prism. Finding congruence in such premise, Spectra as an organization is indeed the true embodiment of its name - different cultures, different styles, different personalities. An organization where rockstars sing side by side with balladeers, the Einsteins mingle with your Brad Pitts, and resident comedians elicit laughter from silent types. This diversity is the pillar that strengthens our bond and unites us as one – a spectrum emerging from one and the same light. The What We Live For
“You don’t turn back on family, even if they do.” –Dominic Toretto, Fast 6
Brotherhood, Loyalty and Excellence (Fraternitas, Fidelitas, Praestantia) - these are the virtues that embody the Spectran spirit. It is by these standards that we resolve to personify and live our lives. Accordingly, one does not simply choose to be part of Spectra, Spectra chooses you. We are not just an organization, we are a family. It is the company we call home amidst the hectic demands of law school.
“A Spectran’s life as a fellow in the society is not just his own, for the society discourages glory-seeking individualism for the greater concept of cooperation and teamwork.” Brotherhood in Spectra is a bond that goes deeper than the normal drinking sessions and study-outs. Each Spectran is a helping hand to his brothers and sisters. Spectrans, like the wolf, never hunt and eat without the pack. Although we may be incidentally linked to other causes, Spectra is an apolitical organization demanding utmost loyalty from its members. Loyalty in Spectra is loyalty that goes beneath the incidental affiliations. We always go back to what we are – Spectrans. Excellence in Spectra does not entirely revolve around passing subjects and getting good grades. It is a concept that goes far beyond the material. Within us lies an unwavering stance to do our ordinary duties extraordinarily well, to treat others as to how we want them to treat us, even if they are not part of Spectra. We do not breed contempt and bad blood. We are more inclined to unity rather than rivalry. We have made this apparent through the different tie-ups with other organizations within and without the School of Law. The Who We Take Orders From
The Primus Inter Pares is the alpha wolf of our pack – his word is the law. Yet as the name itself suggests, he is the first among equals and is merely there to serve. It is not a position of power, but a position of trust and service. It is not an opportunity for self-laudation but a responsibility to bring the family together and facilitate the different activities Spectra has to offer. Although the word of the Primus is the law, the Primus rules by charisma, not by an iron fist. He earns the respect of the members because he himself respects them. Assisted by the different committee heads and officers, they spearhead Spectra consistent with its vision and virtues. The What Have We Done
Beyond the four corners of law school, Spectra has proven its worth in public service and social responsibility. To name a few, right after typhoon Yolanda ravaged the Philippines, Spectra extended relief to the members and their families who were affected by the typhoon. Spectra braved the odds as we delivered the sacks of goods door-to-door and personally visited the victims in what remained of their homes. Further, last December 1, 2013, Spectra provided free legal aid in partnership with South Western University Law and Barangay Punta Princesa. Last December 31, 2013, through some donations from private institutions and individuals, Spectra conducted a feeding program and relief ops in Daan Bantayan, Cebu, an area badly affected by typhoon Yolanda. We gave the affected families hardware gift certificates to rebuild their homes that were obliterated by the devastating typhoon. Within the law school, Spectra organized the USC LAW Lawless Quizbee and the USC LAW Talent Night in partnership with USC Lex Circle. After the first semester of 2013, Spectra, in partnership with Militis Lex organized the Sem-Ender party - the bottle after the battle. Every Valentine’s day, the handsome Spectran guys, dressed in their best coats and ties, serenade each and every class and faculty to a hymn akin to that of a romantic comedy. "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit." - Aristotle
The Always and Forever
Becoming Spectra is a privilege, an honor that is not to be wasted. Once you become Spectra, you will always be part of Spectra. It matters not who you become or where you will be, Spectran blood will always run through your veins. It is truly a different kind of experience from the ordinary routine of law school. Spectrans are a force to be reckoned with.
“We will remain faithful to the pledges we have made. We are one. We will persevere. We will not fail. That is the measure of our resolve.”
Spectra Semper!
