Change often begins with a conversation, but progress takes root when that dialogue leads to understanding and collective action.
This is where development communication finds its true value—it connects people, ideas, and institutions to create meaningful change that reaches communities on the ground.
During the 107th UPLB Loyalty Day, held under the theme “UPLB Alumni: A Force for Transforming Communities,” the University of the Philippines Los Baños reaffirmed this calling by honoring alumni whose work continues to uplift lives and strengthen communities. Among the highlights of the celebration was the recognition of graduates from the College of Human Ecology who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
The College of Human Ecology Distinguished Alumni Awards were presented to:
- Corporate Social Responsibility – Victor Persius F. Chan
- Human and Family Development – Loida A. Geronimo-Panopio
- Social Development through Capacity Building and Program Management – Julius B. Lunar
- Public Health Promotion – Marc Dexter M. Macalintal
According to UPLB, the awards celebrate alumni whose professional achievements reflect service orientation, leadership, impact, and integrity—qualities that bring distinct honor to the College and deliver lasting benefit to society.
Among this year’s honorees is Victor Persius Chan, recognized for his work in Corporate Social Responsibility. The university cited his extensive experience in CSR, stakeholder engagement, regulatory compliance, and development communication. His contributions in social impact, brand storytelling, and community engagement have helped position institutions such as SM Foundation as examples of strategic and values-driven corporate citizenship, gaining international recognition and advancing inclusive and sustainable development.
“Each year, the UPLB Distinguished Alumni Awards honor graduates whose work exemplifies the university’s values of integrity, service, and commitment to nation-building,” said Dr.Jennifer Marie Amparo, Dean of the College of Human Ecology. “Their achievements show how these values take shape in diverse fields and settings, including the corporate world.”
In Chan’s case, the university highlighted how purposeful leadership and collaboration can turn corporate initiatives into lasting instruments of social progress. Through his work in strategic and sustainable social responsibility programs, he has helped bridge sectors and build trust among communities, partners, and institutions. These efforts show how the private sector, when guided by empathy and shared purpose, can become a strong ally in advancing resilience, sustainability, and inclusive development.
The recognition reflects a message shared by all awardees, that the true measure of success lies not only in achievement, but in the ability to use knowledge, empathy, and collaboration to transform communities and create lasting impact.
Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.
