To commemorate bountiful blessings, rekindle relationships, and extend goodwill with the Louisian community, Saint Louis University (SLU) and SLU Alumni Association held the 2024 Alumni Homecoming Rambakan Gala Night with the theme “Rising above and winning battles together: Celebrating a year of triumphs” on 22 March 2024 at Newtown Plaza Hotel, Baguio City.
Atty. Socrates A. Padua, President of the SLU School of Law Alumni Association, opened the night of celebration with a heartwarming welcome to his fellow alumni to the celebration of triumphs on the collective spirit of Louisian excellence. “As a community, we are inspired by the CICM way of life. We are called to compassion, service and unwavering dedication to the greater good,” Atty Padua stated.
After reminiscing heartwarming memories over a banquet dinner and an audiovisual presentation of last year’s Rambakan, the awarding ceremony of the Outstanding Alumni for the categories Christian Spirit, Competence, Creativity, Social Involvement, and the Theophile Verbist Lifetime Achievement award commenced. Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM led the presentation of awards.
The following is the list of Outstanding Alumni in their respective categories:
Christian Spirit
The experience of consciously striving to integrate one’s life without isolation and self-absorption with self-transcendence toward the ultimate value that the alumna/alumnus upholds.
- Carmencita M. Dionisio (School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies)
Her contributions to the Louisian community have spanned more than 40 years, during which she formed the SLU Retirees Association, an organization in which she still actively participates. She views fundraising and volunteering as opportunities to give back to the community she serves and to further her own education as a lifelong learner.
Competence
The ability to do something successfully or efficiently. This award shall encompass a qualified alumni’s state of having sufficient knowledge, judgment, skill, or strength in their profession.
- Jose Emmanuel P. Guillermo, MsD, CPA, HD, PhD (School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies)
A renowned businessman with twenty years of distinguished experience in sales and marketing, operations, finance, accounting, and logistics, as well as human resource management, he operates as a wholesaler and retailer in many gas stations in Northern Luzon. In addition, he works in the transport and logistics industry as a distributor of bitumen or asphalt products and as a dealer and importer of trucks, buses, trailers/tankers, and equipment. - Consul Purificacion S. Molintas (School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts)
She is the former DOT-CAR Regional Director and Tourism Attache in North America, Australia and Oceana, involved in training the trainers of the Panagbenga Festival parades. With a strong love for art and culture, she developed the receptions of Philippine embassies and consulates, showcasing Filipino ingenuity and the best of the country, as well as the template for Cordillera festivals. - Dr. John Anthony A. Domantay, FPSP, FPASMAP, MSc, PhD (School of Medicine)
Pursuing excellence in the fields of biology, medicine,anatomic and clinical pathology, epidemiology, and education,the Dean of the School of Medicine merits the award as Best Mentor in Health Research. He has made a substantial contribution to medical knowledge and expertise in his roles as National Treasurer of the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges (APMC) and Accreditor of the Commission on Medical Education of the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU). - Mary Grace C. Lacanaria, PhD (School of Nursing)
As the Chair of the Philippine Nursing Education Academy, a member of the Technical Panel in Nursing Education of CHED, and a key contributor to the Philippine Nursing Roadmap, she has demonstrated her strong support for high-quality nursing education, curriculum development, and quality assurance and improvement. Her local and international leadership in the Nursing profession is an inspiration for all. - Engr. Bonifacio I. Dela Peña (School of Engineering and Architecture)
As the owner and CEO of BIP Steadfast Ground Inc. (BIPSGI), which has been accredited by the Baguio City Engineering Office, he possesses competence in Geotechnical Engineering, Materials Testing, Design and Supervision, and General Construction. As a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), a Life Member of the Road Engineering Association of the Philippine, National Board of Directors , and the Baguio City-Chapter President, he has joined the City Government of Baguio as the City Administrator or alter ego of the City Mayor.
Creativity
The talent to generate or recognize ideas, alternatives, or possibilities that can be useful in solving problems, communicating with others, and entertaining others especially for novel, varied, and complex stimulation.
- Engr. Rodrigo P. Duque (School of Engineering and Architecture)
As the President and CEO of Ozone Dynamic Ventures, he is a multi-awarded inventor who is passionate about creating and offering environmentally friendly air treatment and safe, nutritious drinking water. Among his outstanding accomplishments are the Outstanding Invention Award 2018 DOST National Invention Contest and Exhibits, Representing the Philippines in the 47th International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva, the Most Award-Winning Invention 2003, and the Five-Year Water Security and Resilience Program of the Government. - Reynaldo R. Morcilla, CPA (School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies)
A passionate supporter of civic associations and accounting, he passed the rigorous qualifying process for the CPA board examination and was given the Abel Award for his invaluable assistance and collaboration with the La Union Provincial Government. During his tenure as Plaza Filipino President, he made a noteworthy contribution by raising a substantial amount of money for the Arts, Culture, and Innovation (ACI) Community Center in Campbeltown, NSW.
Social Involvement
One’s degree of participation in a community or society by promoting sustainable decisions through recognizing and communicating the needs and interests of all participants including decision makers.
- Carmen C. Bolinto, RN, RM, HHH Fellow (School of Nursing)
A people-centered nurse activist, she spearheaded health missions in Baguio City and in the far-flung areas of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). Some of her most notable initiatives include the formation of the Cordillera Nurses Brigade for COVID 19 (CNBC), initiating community health projects, and continuous involvement in the Episcopal Diocese of the North-Central Philippines. - Atty. Elmer O. Datuin (SLU Laboratory High School)
Being a Louisian since his years at the SLU Boys High School (SLU Laboratory High School), his strong conviction towards civic duty grew into a career in public service. He was the President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Baguio Chapter (1995-1997) and played a vital role in establishing the Integrated Bar of the Philippines Legal Aid Clinic in Baguio City, earning him and Baguio the titles of “Most Outstanding IBP Chapter President of the Philippines”, “Most Outstanding Chapter,” and “Most Outstanding Free Legal Aid Clinic in the Philippines,” respectively. - Yrna Avelina L. Ileto (School of Nursing, Allied Health and Biological Sciences)
A dynamic leader who began a career in public relations was led to greater heights, earning recognition as the LPH Pitman at Lloyd’s London REpresentative in Asia (1995-2003). She continues to be involved in philanthropic causes, such as the Father Saturnino Lopez Home for The Abandoned Elderly in Tagaytay, while holding positions as a board member of the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation and PRO of the Philippine Ambassadors’ Ladies Association. - Marie Gemma A. Lachica, BSC (School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies)
A stage 3B colon cancer survivor who began as a volunteer in the Colon Cancer Canada (CCC) in 2016, organized events to raise awareness and funds for colon cancer patients. As a result of her work, she is the first Filipino-Canadian fundraiser making a difference to Canadians. She continued her campaigning in the Philippines, mostly through an alumni relationship with SLU’s Extension and Outreach Office in 2018 and 2019, where she raised money for SLU and Baguio General Hospital’s cancer unit and its patients afflicted with cancer.
Theophile Verbist Lifetime Achievement Award
Fr. Theophile Verbist, CICM, was an inspiring man who made a significant difference in the lives of Christians. As the founder of the Congregatio Immaculati Cordis Mariae (CICM), the CICM has been guided by the principle Cor Unum et Anima Una (One Heart and one Soul) in all its missionary work. An alumna/alumnus who embodies the work ethic and virtue of Theophile Verbist is a testament of paying honor and tribute to the SLU missionary spirit.
- Teodora C. Caguicla (School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies)
Recognized and awarded for her contribution and excellence in community service, she developed and implemented innovative solutions leading to improved transportation systems through her 39-year career at the Land Transportation Office (LTO). She is still devoted to working with socially and civically engaged organizations. - Maria Felicidad F. Fortea, PhD (School of Advanced Studies)
From kindergarten until she pursued higher education at SLU, she was a devoted Louisian. She accepted the teaching profession and worked as a university professor of mathematics, education, and research. As her career in academia grew, she led the charge to standardize the structure and content of graduate theses, working with the Commission on Higher Education of the Cordillera Administrative Region. - Dr. Johnny S. Marasigan, MBA, PhD (School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts)
Having completed eight degrees and specializations at five different universities, his outstanding academic record paved the way for a successful career as an educator. He was the first male teacher at a private girls’ high school in LA, and established careers in SLU, University of British Columbia, Kwantlen Polytechnic University and Open Learning and Corpus Christi College, Vancouver. In addition to his scholarly papers, he is a liturgical minister and the author of a first novel for young adults. - Dr. Florimond A. Garcia (School of Medicine)
To name a few of his valuable contributions in Philippine healthcare, Dr. Garcia founded the vascular clinics at the Philippine Heart Center and St. Luke’s Medical Center. His compassionate attitude to patient care also demonstrates the highest regard for both patients and the medical profession and community. - Dr. Jaime Lopez, CPA (School of Advanced Studies)
He received numerous honors as a community leader and educator, holding leadership positions in a number of organizations in the Philippines and Australia, including the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition and Zest Award. In addition to his leadership abilities, he was a success in sales, real estate, insurance, and ministry.
The SLU Alumni Association then awarded the Plaques of Appreciation to the donors of the Legacy Wall. Donations to the Legacy Wall will support the “Saranay Ti Alumni”, providing funding for students and board examination takers. Showing their gratitude and appreciation, SLU presented Plaques and Certificates of Appreciation to the SLU Alumni Association 2023 Officers.
To formally end the night, the induction ceremony of the 2024-2025 alumni officers led by Rev. Fr. Sales was held. The following is the list of the SLU Alumni Association Officers of 2024:
- President – Purita Cherrie O. Pacia, CPA, MBA (SAMCIS)
- Vice President Internal – Triceayn Marie D. Prestousa (STELA)
- Vice President External – Dr Susan Lachica (SOM)
- Secretary – Faridah Kristi Wetherick, PhD (SAS)
- Assistant Secretary – Minette Reyes (SON INT)
- Treasurer – Mark Ryan Langit, RPh, MSPh (SNS)
- Assistant Treasurer – Emily Abad (SON)
- Auditor – Engr. Annabelle Tungol (SLU AA Australia)
- PRO – Atty. Elmer Datuin (Boys High)
- Director – Engr. Bonifacio Dela Pena (SEAS)
- Director – Ran Hong, PhD
- Immediate Past President – Atty. Socrates Padua (SOL)
- Director/International Relations Officer – Mary Grace P. Carrido, PhD
- Adviser – Jaime Lopez. CPA, PhD
- Adviser – Rev. Fr. Gilbert Sales, CICM, PhD
To close the night’s commemoration, Dr. Jaime Lopez, CPA, addressed everyone in his closing remarks saying, “As outstanding alumni, we hope to be an inspiration to others, as well as a challenge to others that what we have done and achieved could also be achieved by them and soon to be the next outstanding alumni awardees.”
Indeed, the Rambakan 2024 Grand Alumni Homecoming Gala Night rekindled friendships through shared smiles, laughter, and stories that brought back memories, serving as a reminder of how the power of reconnecting can bring like-minded people together, driven by the shared goal to continue on the Louisian legacy.
The event also marked the 35th year of the School of Medicine (SOM); 40th year of the School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies (SAMCIS); and the 70th year of the School of Law (SOL). (Article by Sarah Navalta, Rita Lopez, and Antonio Lim, Jr., UIO Interns | Photos by Khryss Noelle Arellano and Justhine Plana, UIO Interns)
