Nebres hailed National Scientist
Former University President Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, SJ was conferred the title of National Scientist last October 25 at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of the Malacañang Palace. President Benigno Aquino III awarded Nebres with the Presidential Medallion for his work and achievements as a mathematician, educator, mentor and administrator, as well as for his contributions to education and social reform.
Some of his notable works include the establishment of the Ateneo Center for Educational Development, which aims to assist local governments and to promote the development of public schools.
The title is the highest honor that can be conferred on a Filipino scientist. Nebres is the 37th National Scientist of the Philippines and is one of the 15 awardees who are living today.
Ateneo to move out of Loyola Heights?
News of the Ateneo’s possible move from Loyola Heights to a new campus circulated online after a Twitter post by Ateneo de Manila High School Principal Fr. Raymund-Benedict Hizon, SJ last October 14.
Hizon’s post was made in the context of a university strategic planning activity being held in Antipolo at the time of his tweet. He said, “We have to consider our rapidly expanding population, environmental impact and our many needs… We may [move], but it still remains a long shot.”
High school Associate Principal Fr. Jboy Gonzales, SJ added, “There is an increase in population density and commercialization of Katipunan in Loyola Heights.”
After the statement drew reactions from many Ateneans, Hizon clarified that the move was not a confirmed plan.
“Be at peace,” he said. “‘We may’ does not mean ‘we will.’”
ADS reaches NDC finals
The Ateneo Debate Society (ADS) Team A made it to the finals of the 13th annual National Debate Championships (NDS) held in Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan (XU) last October 17 to 23.
ADS’ Allan Cabrera and Walter Wong finished as runners-up, along with XU Team A and Far Eastern University Team A. Cabrera and Wong argued for the negative on the finals motion, “This house believes that in the interest of economic and geopolitical stability, the Asean should cede the Spratlys.” University of the Philippines Diliman Team A was declared tournament champions.
Three ADS debaters placed among the top 10 speakers: Peterson Poon (4th), Allan Cabrera (6th) and Walter Wong (8th). Following closely were Daryl Isla (11th), Job de Leon (15th) and Dwight Tan (17th).
Ateneo SPEED in top 20 youth orgs
The Ateneo Special Education Society (Speed) was recognized as one of the top 20 youth organizations in the country during the recently concluded 9th Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Awards.
After the final screening of 20 finalists from October 23 to 26, the top ten orgs were recognized by President Benigno Aquino III last October 27 in Malacañang. Each awardee received a P50,000 cash grant from the Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, Inc.
Speed, which was established in 1994 to support children with special needs, has reached the TAYO National Finals in 2008 and the TAYO NCR Finals the following year.
The TAYO Awards is annually organized by the National Youth Commission.
ASoG celebrates 10th anniversary
To celebrate its 10th anniversary, the Ateneo School of Government (ASOG) held a leadership conference last October 19 at the Leong Hall auditorium, in an event entitled “Good Governance: Are the Constitutional Commissions its Guardians?”
Guest speakers for the event included Civil Service Commission Head Francisco Duque, who talked about the importance of human resource for good governance. Poll Commissioner Gus Lagman and Commission on Audit Head Grace Tan also spoke about their agencies’ respective roles in ensuring clean elections and policing the government’s ranks.
Philippine President Benigno Aquino III attended the event, delivering a speech highlighting the importance of the three independent institutions.
“The sufficient time and freedom given to the independent commissions by the constitution are important in ensuring [that] they can work without any external influence. However, as we recognize and respect the ability and freedom of these institutions in making decisions, we can make certain the selection of leaders who are committed, honest and have integrity,” he said.
Meanwhile, University President Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ highlighted the importance of the conference.
“It’s a milestone to celebrate ten years for the School of Government. And I’m glad the Ateneo was able to gather leaders—potential leaders and actual leaders,” he said.
“I would say these three institutions are instruments. If you want good governance, you support these institutions,” he added.
