University of San Agustin Alumni Recognized at Iloilo City’s 87th Charter Day
In a celebration marking the 87th Charter Anniversary of Iloilo City with the theme “RISE, Iloilo City: Remarkable Ilonggos Sustaining Excellence at 87” on August 24, 2024, three distinguished alumni from the University of San Agustin were honored with a prestigious recognition as part of the 2024 Top Ten Outstanding Ilonggos. This recognition not only highlights their significant contributions to society but also accentuates the university’s legacy of excellence and commitment to community service.
The awardees include Dr. Erlinda S. Ganzon-Naret, Atty. Joebert Peñaflorida, and Atty. Jose Mari Benjamin Francisco U. Tirol. These outstanding Augustinians made remarkable strides in their respective fields, demonstrating leadership and dedication that resonate not only locally but internationally as well.
Photo Courtesy: Iloilo City Government Official Facebook Page
Atty. Joebert Peñaflorida has been a dynamic figure in the community as a respected journalist where he received multiple awards during his stint as a news anchor with ABS-CBN TV Patrol Panay and GMA 24 Oras Western Visayas. He is also an inspiring entrepreneur, and a business and civic leader.
He is the Founding President of the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. and his role as the Regional Governor of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Western Visayas further exemplifies his commitment to promoting economic growth in the region. Additionally, he has been instrumental in shaping policies that foster development and sustainability as Co-chair of the Regional Development Council 6 and Chair of the RDC-6 Economic Development Committee.
Peñaflorida, graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce Major in Accounting degree and passed the CPA Board Examinations with a general average of 88.14%, and became recipient of the SGV Gold Medal of Excellence, the Highest National Rating in Auditing.
Photo Courtesy: Iloilo City Government Official Facebook Page
Atty. Jose Mari Benjamin Francisco U. Tirol has made significant contributions to legal education and practice. His writings have been published in newspaper articles, law journals, and law books, which have been cited in Supreme Court and Court of Appeals decisions, and opinions of the Philippine Senate and Department of Justice.
He took up his Bachelor of Laws from the university and graduated Cum Laude. He has been the dean of the University of San Agustin College of Law since 2014 and has molded countless future lawyers and leaders. His international experience, including participation in the Erasmus International Credit Mobility (ICM) program at the Universidad de Malaga in Spain, showcases his commitment to academic excellence and global engagement.
Photo Courtesy: Iloilo City Government Official Facebook Page
Dr. Erlinda S. Ganzon-Naret, who graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology was conferred the title Career Scientist 1 in 2014 by the Department of Science and Technology and the Civil Service Commission’s Scientific Career System. She took on the role of Host Scientist for Japanese scientists and researchers participating in the Core University Program and served as a Exchange Researcher under Prof. Shunsuke Koshio of Kagoshima University, Japan.
Her notable research achievements led her to present at several local and international conferences in the fields of Aquaculture and Fisheries as a presenter. She was also one of the USA Outstanding Achievement Awardee in the field of Environment, Science & Technology last July 13, 2018 during the 114th Foundation Anniversary of the University of San Agustin.
As the University of San Agustin continues to foster a culture of leadership and community engagement, the accomplishments of its alumni remind us all of the profound impact one can have on society. This celebration is a proud moment for both the University and the Iloilo Community, paving the way for future generations to strive for greatness.
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