On January 15, the University of Asia and the Pacific marked a historic moment with the conferment of Dr. Veronica Esposo Ramirez as the University’s first female Full Professor. The ceremony was a fitting tribute to Dr. Ramirez’s outstanding achievements and transformative contributions to the Arts, Values Education, Aeta-Indigenous People development, and Overseas Filipino Work.
The conferment was rigorously assessed by a panel of esteemed evaluators, including Dr. Jorge Tigno and Dr. Jean Encinas-Franco from the University of the Philippines and Dr. Johanna Zulueta from Toyo University, Tokyo, Japan.
During the ceremony, UA&P School of Education and Human Development (SED) Dean Dr. Angelito Z. Antonio presented the achievements of Dr. Ramirez, calling the academic milestone a big moment of joy, not only for Dr. Ramirez, but also for SED. He also emphasized how her achievement sets a high standard for academic excellence and meaningful impact.
In honour of her contributions, several notable speakers were invited to recognize Dr. Ramirez’s contributions in their respective fields.
Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac commended Dr. Ramirez’s extensive research on Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). He noted how her work, particularly Breaking Free from Struggles of Silence, provided critical insights that have influenced mental health programs and migrant welfare policies. He expressed gratitude for her advocacy, underscoring its role in inspiring meaningful reforms.
Renowned artist and 2024 Gawad CCP para sa Sining Awardee Joey Ayala reflected on Dr. Ramirez’s influence on the arts. He credited her with helping him structure and systematize his body of work, allowing his artistic contributions to be shared in a broader academic context. He emphasized how her approach bridges the gap between the arts and sciences, fostering a culture of holistic education.
Dr. Ramirez’s dedication to serving marginalized communities, particularly the Aeta people, was also recognized by Vice Mayor Christian Niño Esposo of Castillejos, Zambales. He recounted her initiatives for the Aeta people, which included constructing essential facilities, offering educational opportunities, and supporting livelihood programs. He described her as a true servant leader whose unwavering commitment has transformed countless lives.
Reflecting on her pioneering contributions to values education, UA&P’s University Registrar Dr. Gladys Fe Golo lauded Dr. Ramirez’s instrumental role in crafting the K to 12 Values Education curriculum. She also highlighted her authorship of more than 20 textbooks that have influenced educators nationwide. Dr. Golo praised her for inspiring educators to weave compassion, art, and faith into teaching, inspiring a more profound approach to values education.
In her response, Dr. Ramirez shared reflections on her journey and the principles that have guided her work. Quoting Maximo M. Kalaw, she remarked, “The ideal university is not found simply on campus; it is found wherever its benevolent influence is.” She expressed deep gratitude to her mentors, colleagues, and family, emphasizing the importance of leaving a legacy of meaningful service and impact.UA&P President Winston Conrad Padojinog closed the ceremony by recognizing Dr. Ramirez’s dedication to scholarship and service. He encouraged faculty members to follow her example, stating that she has set a high standard for what it means to be an educator and researcher who truly transforms lives.
