On April 2, the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) held a historic Conferment Ceremony at the Li Seng Giap Auditorium, where the titles of University Professor Emeritus and Professor Emeritus—the highest academic distinctions conferred by the University—were awarded to three of its most esteemed scholars.
UA&P founders Dr. Jesus P. Estanislao and Dr. Bernardo M. Villegas were named University Professors Emeriti, while College of Arts and Sciences Full Professor Dr. Paul A. Dumol was conferred the title of Professor Emeritus. These honors recognize decades of outstanding scholarly achievement, exemplary service, and enduring contributions to the University and the nation.
The event brought together administrators, faculty, staff, students, and distinguished guests in a moving celebration of lives lived in pursuit of truth, excellence, and nation-building. The atmosphere was one of reverence and gratitude as the University paid tribute to individuals whose work has shaped not only UA&P but also the nation’s academic, economic, and cultural landscape.
In his tribute, Mr. Rex Drilon II, Chairman of the Institute of Corporate Directors (Philippines), highlighted Dr. Estanislao’s foundational role in UA&P, describing him as “the Founding President credited with building the solid foundation and the hard and soft infrastructure required to establish a great university that UA&P is today.” Drilon continued, “It is with great honor and privilege for me to have fought battles all these years with this Man for All Seasons, Dr. Jesus P. Estanislao.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Villegas was remembered not only for his academic brilliance but also for his deeply human qualities. UA&P Center for Research and Communication (CRC) Associate Professor Dr. Antonio Torralba, one of the speakers during the ceremony, shared a personal anecdote: “His first question would always be, ‘How is your mother?’ His second question, ‘And how have you been?’ was never perfunctory.” Dr. Toralba added, “He IS economics … he IS economics education, who made me love economics with enough passion to teach it with ease, comfort, and daring.
Dr. Paul Dumol, a playwright, historian, and longtime faculty member, was honored for his profound impact on the Humanities and the lives he has quietly shaped over the decades. Humanities Program Director and Associate Professor Dr. Joachim Emilio Antonio, one of his former students and now colleague, spoke of Dr. Dumol’s humility and mentorship: “Dr. Dumol’s professional achievements aren’t just a mere display of prowess; it is, rather, a duty. To be able to give, one must have something worthwhile to give. And when Dr. Dumol gives, he gives.”
The conferment served not only to recognize three extraordinary individuals, but also to renew the University’s commitment to the values they have long embodied—excellence in thought, generosity in spirit, and a deep and active love for country and fellowman.
As UA&P continues its journey, it does so standing on the shoulders of these giants—educators and visionaries—whose wisdom and example light the way for generations to come. Their legacy will continue to guide the University in shaping future leaders and scholars.
