Meet the 2024 Remarkable Alumni Heron Awardees
They are champions of their chosen fields and professions. They are respected personalities who never settle for less. They are the product of the University’s dynamic quality education. They are the REMARKABLE ALUMNI HERONS.
Mechanics
Eligibility Criteria:
- Nominees must have at least one degree, certificate, or high school diploma from the University of Makati (UMak) and have graduated five (5) years before the current batch, however, alumni who graduated in less than five (5) years with extremely meritorious achievement may be nominated subject to the evaluation of the Selection Panel.
- Nominees must have achieved a high level of success within their chosen field of endeavor, which is exemplified by having attained increasingly responsible positions and having been recognized by the community.
- The nominee must not be a full-time employee of the UMak for the last ten (10) years; an incumbent officer or Board of Trustee of the Association of UMak Alumni, Inc.; or a previous recipient of the UMak Outstanding Alumni Awards or Remarkable Alumni Herons Awards (however, the alumni who were nominated from the previous year/s may be nominated again).Deceased alumni with outstanding success or recognition may also be nominated. The part-time UMak employees may be nominated but they will be screened based on their contribution and accomplishments outside the scope of their work in UMak. Meanwhile, alumni who are employees from other departments of the City Government of Makati may also be nominated.
Nomination Process:
- The nominator must check if the alumni meet the criteria stated before filling out and submitting the nomination form
- The nomination form, current résumé or curriculum vitae of the nominee, and bio sketch or narrative can be submitted either electronically at [email protected] or in print at the Center for Alumni Affairs (CAA).The bio sketch or narrative of the nominees must discuss in detail their qualifications and establish why are they “remarkable alumni”. The following may serve as a guide:
- Achievements in a chosen profession or chosen field/s. How has the nominee demonstrated achievements and/or accomplishments in his/her profession or chosen career? Has s/he received honors from an internationally acclaimed agency, association, or employer (current or former)? How was the nominee able to address a problem in his/her profession or workplace? Who and how many people benefited from the nominee’s achievement? What are the impacts of the nominee’s accomplishments?
- Community volunteerism service. What service/s and contribution/s has the nominee made to the community through civic, charitable, business, professional, or other means? What is the community involvement of the nominee? Is it national or international involvement?
- Leadership in any organization. How has the nominee exhibited outstanding leadership and character in his/her career, profession, community, and personal life?
- Involvement to the UMak as an alumnus/alumna. How has the nominee upheld the mission and vision of UMak or how does the nominee contribute to the education of UMak’s students?
- Only the nomination form with complete attachments will be accepted by CAA
- The screening process will be conducted and the shortlisted nominees will be interviewed.
Criteria for Judging:
The selection panel bases its decision on the oral or written information provided. A complete application should address all the categories:
- Achievements in a chosen profession or chosen field/s. How has the nominee demonstrated achievements and/or accomplishments in his/her profession or chosen career? Has s/he received honors from an internationally acclaimed agency, association, or (current or former) employer? How was the nominee able to address a problem in your profession or workplace? Who and how many people benefitted from the nominee’s achievements? What are the impacts of the nominee’s accomplishments?
- Community volunteerism service. What service/s and contribution/s has the nominee made to the community through civic, charitable, business, professional, or other means? What is the community involvement of the nominee? Is it national or international?
- Leadership in any organization. How has the nominee exhibited outstanding leadership and character in his/her career, profession, community, and personal life?
- Involvement to the UMak as an alumnus/alumna. How has the nominee upheld the mission and vision of UMak or how does the nominee contribute to the education of UMak students?
The criteria for judging will be the following:
- Education and/or Professional Development (10%)
- Community Involvement (30%)
- Leadership (40%)
- Awards/Recognition (20%)
For more information, send us an email at
[email protected]
MEET THE 2024 AWARDEES
KIM M. ABBANG
Bachelor of Science Major in Biology, 1999
Certificate in Teaching, 2001
Kim Abbang started serving the public in 1996 as Kagawad of the Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay Pembo while finishing his bachelor’s degree in UMak. He worked overseas and in the local government until he was appointed as Punong Barangay in January 2023 and elected in October 2023.
During his leadership, Barangay Pembo received several awards and recognitions from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for actively participating in the awarding of free patents of unregistered lands, the Department of Labor and Employment for the Barangay’s involvement in the Technical Advisory Visit Program. Barangay Pembo was awarded by the Gawad Kalikasan Awards as the cleanest and greenest barangay in Makati.
Kap. Abbang partnered with UMak in providing several Gender and Development seminars. He also sought regular assistance from the UMak School of Law – Center for Clinical Legal Education and Legal Aid Services in providing legal assistance to the underprivileged residents of Pembo. He encourages out-of-school youth and other residents of the Barangay to enroll in the technical-vocational, baccalaureate, and graduate programs of the University.
MICHAEL ANTHONY R. ALPAJARO
Bachelor of Science
in Accountancy, 2014
Michael “Mik” Alpajaro’s journey embodies the belief that “it is never too late”. He transitioned from being an engineering dropout to a Certified Public Accountant after balancing a tight schedule as a barista in the morning and a UMak student at night.
His professional career commenced in 2014 at PwC, focusing on Risk Consulting and Forensic Accounting. Later on, he became part of PwC’s Financial Crime Unit and PwC Philippines global project representative attending working sessions in Singapore, Poland, and the United Kingdom and collaborating with clients and colleagues from the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Poland, and India. He was promoted to Senior Manager after.
He moved to New York in 2021 and is now working as the Anti-Money Laundering and Know-Your-Client Lead at Deutsche Bank (DB). He is an active member of the bank’s Asian Leadership Forum, a group focused on connecting, developing, and empowering Asian employees. He also served as a volunteer mentor of DB’s non-profit partners, providing guidance and support to young adults from low-income backgrounds, including people of color and immigrants, as they pursue employment and internship opportunities.
Mik actively engages with UMak students and alumni by offering career guidance and mentoring. He plays a pivotal role in informing the UMak community about employment opportunities and fostering collaboration and support among students and alumni.
MARK APRIL C. AREVALO
Bachelor of Science in Construction Management Technology, 2005
Police Captain Mark April C. Arevalo is an accomplished law enforcement professional currently serving as a dedicated counterintelligence officer in the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP). In addition to his critical role, he holds the position of Deputy Chief of Police at San Teodoro Municipal Police Station (MPS), Oriental Mindoro.
He has further distinguished himself by being conferred with a Doctor of Humanities degree, a recognition of his exceptional contributions to the realm of humanities, tireless advocacy work, and philanthropic endeavors, all of which have significantly enriched society.
His remarkable achievements have been celebrated through various prestigious awards, including the World Council Excellence Awards – acknowledging his exemplary service to the nation; the Global Leaders and Educators Awards – an honor bestowed upon him as the only nominated PNP representative; World Leaders and Achievers Conclave – commended for his outstanding leadership abilities; and the International Icon Awards – honored him as Outstanding Young Professional of the Year.
PCpt Arevalo’s exceptional leadership and commitment have also resulted in unit awards for the San Teodoro and Buenavista MPS such as the Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo project of PNP, Gawad Bayanihan of the Department of Health, and Medalya ng Kadakilaan of Police Regional Office of MIMAROPA.
GINALYN BALTE PANGHULAN
Bachelor in Secondary Education
Major in English, 1998 (Magna Cum Laude)
Ginalyn Panghulan is an Associate Professor at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sto. Tomas Batangas where she teaches English Language, Literature, Arts and Humanities, and other Education courses since 2003.
In the interest of service and love for the University, she serves as the Area Coordinator of different education programs in PUP. Aside from teaching 33 units, she is the Adviser of the Pre-Service Teachers’ Organization and the Project Team Leader of the Extension Project “Building Research Culture Among Educators” of the Education and Psychology programs which aims to foster a culture of research and collaboration among teachers of Sto. Tomas South District public school teachers to help them produce scholarly outputs to increase their research production for promotion.
Dr. Panghulan has presented various research papers at different local and international conferences. In 2019, the International Organization of Educators and Researchers, Inc. recognized her research “Talent Development Program Model for Philippine Schools” as the Best Paper in Education.
She is an active member of the International Organization of Educators and Researchers, Inc. and the Speech Communication Organization of the Philippines. She served as a thesis adviser, research consultant, and moderator. She also served as the resource speaker in the recent 2-day Higher School ng UMak In-service Training as a way to give back to her alma mater.
CAROLINA BERMUDEZ-MANZANO
Associate in Industrial Computer Technology, 1992
Bachelor of Arts in English, 1997
Master in Public Administration, 2003
As a student, Carolina Manzano was a Dean’s Lister, Rui Matsushita Memorial scholar, and The Makati Collegian Editor-in-Chief. Today, she is the Chief of Public Affairs of the National Food Authority (NFA), a public servant who rose from the ranks with 25 years of experience in government services and client collaboration.
She is an NFA scholar who implemented the duly panel-endorsed, accepted, and defended Masters in Development Management capstone project which resulted in the upgrade of the competency in the management of the NFA paddy and rice operations, the upgrade of the warehouse operations in its branch and warehouse installation NCR-wide, and the creation of the Manual of Training as a reference for NFA warehouse operations nationwide. She is also a Career Executive Written Examination passer – a step closer to becoming eligible as a Career Executive Service official.
Manzano also teaches part-time in different Higher Education Institutions, a Homeowners Association officer who conducted relevant projects and campaigns involving private and government partners for the community, a church server, an avid stan of a Pinoy pop group, a mother of two, and an active member of the College of Arts and Science alumni group.
JEFFRY M. CAYA
Higher School ng UMak, 2014
Diploma in Industrial Facilities Major in Service Management, 2016
Bachelor in Automotive Technology, 2019
Ensign Jeffry Caya is currently serving as the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Administrative and Supply Branch Office NR1 and the concurrent OIC of the Reservist Insurance Office of the Philippine Navy.
His impressive educational and military achievements, combined with his commitment to personal and professional growth, make him a distinguished officer and an asset to the Philippine Navy. Among the recognitions he has received are the Presidential Citation Badge, Meritorious Achievement Medal, Military Merit Medal, Parangal sa Kapanalig ng Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas, Luzon Anti-Dissidence Campaign Medal and Ribbon, and Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Operation Ribbon among others.
He served as a resource speaker at transformational leadership seminars at UMak and Bangkal High School. He was designated to different initiatives and volunteer activities such as the Coastal Cleanup Drive, Intelligence Monitoring during the 2022 Elections, Brigada Eskwela, Feeding Program and Gift Giving in the Aeta community, and served as a front-liner during the COVID-19 community quarantine last 2020 and 2021.
Jeffry Mendoza is a graduate of UMak’s Senior High School pioneer batch. Currently, he is pursuing his doctorate in Public Administration at the University of Perpetual Help Delta System in Las Piñas. He is also a proud owner of 2 distinct businesses, each showcasing his dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.
EVAN JESUSCO
Bachelor in Physical Wellness, 2012
Evan Jesusco is a Licensed Professional Teacher and Dean of the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng San Pablo. He has been prominent for 11 years in the teaching industry and has shared various expertise in the field of sports.
Before being a Dean, he was a Radio Disc Jock, Athletic Director of the City College of Calapan, Assistant Principal and Sports Director of STI College of Tanauan, Commissioner of the Association of Local Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (ALCUAA), and PE Lecturer of different Higher Education and Institutions.
Today, he is also the Vice President of the Laguna Interschool Athletic Association, Board Secretary of ALCUAA, and Board Director of the San Pablo Sports Federation. He is a Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Officiating and Referee Accredited in NCR South.
Dean Jesusco finished his Master of Arts in Education (Magna Cum Laude) at the Golden Gate Colleges and currently finishing his doctorate in UMak.
TERESITA LLANZA-NACION
Bachelor of Science in Secretarial Administration Major in Secretarial Education, 1990 (Cum Laude)
At an early age, Teresita Llanza-Nacion was already working side by side with her father, who was a farmer. She grew up in a typical life of a poor family struggling to survive daily. Her family doesn’t have the means to buy materials to be used for education, which her parents value much. She was a consistent Valedictorian from Grades 1 to 6, but it took her 6 long years to finish high school as she stopped now and then for reasons they could not afford.
She went to Manila to work and study to save the family from starvation. Eventually, she became a Norweigian Missionary Alliance scholar. What opted her to enroll in Makati College? The “no tuition” scheme for Makati residents. She finished her degree as Cum Laude.
Right after graduation, she was hired by Divine Word College of Legazpi (DWCL). Her practice teaching at Makati High School equipped her with the work discipline necessary for her job as the newest faculty member of DWCL. For 12 years, she has been serving as the Dean of the Graduate School.
MIGUELITO A. RELENTE
Technical High School, 1988
A simple and quiet young man became the class president of III-J with Mrs. Norma Tolosa and successively on IV-F with Ms. Corazon Lim-Bautista. Today, the class president leads the Batang Poly Batch 1988 Core Group.
After graduating from College, Miguelito Relente was immediately employed by Don Bosco Technical Institute – Makati as a psychometrician, he eventually became the Guidance Counselor and was promoted to Head Counselor. He also assumed the Head Counselor position at Emilio Aguinaldo College. Currently, he is the Guidance Counselor and Career Services Department Head at the Far Eastern University.
Apart from counseling, organizing training, and creating modules for career development, Mr. Relente has also been spending time teaching and helping institutions develop their curriculum. He is also a Certified National Trainer and Assessor at TESDA.
He also guested in radio and media events such as Julius and Tintin, Raffy Tulfo, Good Vibes, Turo-Turo, Radio Veritas, and others. Moreover, he has facilitated numerous talks, seminars, workshops, and training for different organizations and schools with topics covering parenting, personality development, counselor training, teacher training, team building, career guidance, peer training, and student leaders training.
FIDELA B. SUELTO
Executive Doctorate in Leadership (Education), 2017
For 22 years, Fidela Suelto has dedicated herself as a School Principal, serving students from Transitional Kindergarten through 8th grade. Her tenure has been marked by collaborative efforts with an enthusiastic and diverse faculty. Beyond her professional endeavors, she finds joy in activities such as reading, surfing the internet, indulging in theater performances and movies, likewise, occasionally expressing herself through art. Her buoyant and sense of purpose are nourished by the love and support of her family, church, community, and friends.
As a lifelong educator, she remains steadfast in her commitment to effecting positive change in the lives of today’s learners and support networks, driven by a passion for enhancing educational experiences. Moreover, while working abroad as a school principal, she has served as a lecturer, a speaker, a consultant, and a writer locally and internationally demonstrating her potential as an educational leader.
WATCH THE AWARDING CEREMONY
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