The Tarlac State University Alumni Association Inc., in partnership with the Office of Alumni Affairs, gathered the university's outstanding graduates during the first Gawad TSU Alumni Awards held on January 11 at the La Fina Grand Halls in Capas, Tarlac.
The awarding ceremony aims to recognize selected TSU alumni from various batches who have brought pride and distinction to the university through exemplary professional achievements and meaningful contributions to their respective fields and communities.
TSUAAI President Hon. Reynaldo L. Catacutan emphasized the alumni's role as living testaments to the university’s mission.
"You are a testament that TSU produces graduates who are not only competent but exceptional. You inspire us all and remind us that TSU education is not merely a credential – it is a calling to make a difference in the lives of others," he said.
TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco echoed Hon. Catacutan's message, noting that the awardees embody the true spirit of "Galing TSU."
"Your journey reminds us that TSU graduates do not merely succeed – they serve, lead, and inspire. You inspire students, fellow alumni, and most importantly, you bring great honor to our beloved TSU," Pres. Velasco said.
Awardees were recognized in the following categories: Community Empowerment, Culture and the Arts, Education and Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Employment Creation, Human Resource Management, Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Development, Public Health Promotion, Public Service, and Science and Technology.
Moreover, the Alumni Awards Evaluation Committee, chaired by TSU AAI Auditor Engr. Renato A. Galvez, selected honorees through a deliberation process.
Among the notable awardees is Dr. Myrna Q. Mallari, presently a commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education and former TSU president, who was conferred a special citation for transformative university and national leadership. She is an alumna of the College of Public Administration and Governance under the Master of Public Administration program from batch 1985.
In her inspirational message, Comm. Mallari reflected on her roots in TSU and the values that shaped her leadership.
“TSU has made me what I am now. My public administration course at TSU made me realize what true leadership is and what our role here on Earth is – and that is public service. Public service should be grounded on commitment, honesty, accountability, transparency, and integrity,” she said, emphasizing that leadership positions are opportunities to serve others.
Meanwhile, Tarlac Province Governor Hon. Christian Tell A. Yap also congratulated the awardees, encouraging them to continue contributing to nation-building.
“When you achieve your goals and dreams, it is only right that you give back by contributing your talents not only to the Province of Tarlac but to the whole country…Continue to mold the younger generations in your industries to pursue the excellence you have achieved,” he said.
Apart from the distinguished alumni, board examination topnotcher Mr. Johnkris Cornel D. Tulabot was also recognized and awarded financial assistance. Mr. Tulabot ranked tenth in the August 2024 Boar Licensure Examination for Psychometricians.
The event concluded with the induction of the new alumni local chapter from the Electrical Engineering TCT Batch 1989-TSU Batch 1990.
Below is the list of awardees:
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Community Empowerment: |
Ms. Jeanette M. Baquing, Batch 2010 & 2013 |
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Ms. Cynthia G. Quiambao, Batch 1995, 2008, & 2011 |
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Ms. Shanana Ronia T. Paulino, Batch 2004 |
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Culture & Arts: |
Mr. Daniel T. Dizon, Batch 2011 |
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Mr. Joshua Ysmael D. Fontanilla, Batch 2020 |
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Education & Innovation: |
Mr. Roberto D. Santos, Bach 1999, 2006, & 2011 |
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Entrepreneurship & Employment Creation: |
Mr. Joven E. Angeles, Batch 1979 |
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Mr. Ariel V. Samson, Batch 2000 & 2005 |
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Human Resource Management: |
Mr. Marlon C. Dela Cruz, Batch 2012 & 2016 |
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Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Development: |
Mr. Leonides G. Dalupang, Batch 1996 |
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Mr. Alvin M. Libnao, Batch 2006 |
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Mr. Michael V. Sarmiento, Batch 1989 |
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Public Health Promotion: |
Mr. Juan Rafael B. Opsima, Batch 2014 |
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Public Service: |
Ms. Kamille Deanne Lagasca-Mahig, Batch 2005 |
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Mr. Gabrielle Kenth D. Hayashi, Batch 2013, 2016, & 2023 |
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Mr. Alvin P. Hulipas, Batch 1998, 2017, & 2023 |
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Mr. Jessie H. Domingo, Batch 1981 |
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Mr. Ramon G. Manucduc Jr., Batch 1989 |
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Science & Technology: |
Mr. Joel C. Lenon, Batch 1994 |
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Mr. Arnaldo A. Riparip, Batch 2016 |

