Text by Martin R. Racza
Photos by Joseph A. Bautista
Dr. Jacinto Blas S. Mantaring, Guest Speaker for the 2024 Awarding Ceremony, shares his life experiences to the awardees and attendees.
“Aminin natin, mahal natin ang UP Manila.”
These words from University of the Philippines (UP) Manila Vice Chancellor (VC) for Administration and Finance Johanna Patricia D. Adevoso-Cañal encapsulated the spirit during the 2024 Awarding of Retirees, Service Awardees, and Gawad Chancellor Awardees held on October 18, 2024 at the Plenary Hall of the Henry Sy Sr. Building of the UP College of Medicine (CM).
Dr. Miguel Angelo S. Mantaring, an alumnus of the UPCM and currently Director IV of the Bureau of Learner Support Services (BLSS) of the Department of Education, delivered the inspirational message wherein he recalled his days in CM and the University. “UP Manila has played a significant role in shaping my professional and personal life–it has been a constant in my life.” He also acknowledged many of the retirees, including his parents, stating that “they are the reason I am here today.” Touting the selflessness of the awardees, Dr. Mantaring underscored that “the truest form of success is helping those around us.”
Speaking about universal healthcare (UHC), he enjoined the attendees to “make UHC a reality for every Filipino built on the principles of equity, compassion, and access for all.”
In his message, UP Manila Chancellor Michael L. Tee thanked the 2024 Foundation Committee for organizing the 42nd UP Manila Day and 45th Anniversary of the Health Sciences Center, and invited the whole University community to visit the official UP Manila website (www.upm.edu.ph) to know more about the institution’s projects. “Sa bawat kuwento na makikita ninyo sa website, makikita ninyo ang kuwento ninyo, dahil kayo ang gumawa nito.” He also congratulated the awardees, noting that “simula 1908, nagpakita tayo ng honor and excellence.” Addressing the retirees, he expressed optimism: “Sa bawat nagreretiro, may mga bagong sumisibol.”
Chancellor Michael L. Tee (left) gamely posing with Prof. Maryanne Jenelle Y. Montalvo, the 2024 Gawad Chancellor Awardee for Best Athlete.
The Gawad Chancellor Awardees for 2024 are:
