The TEODORA Awards

Introduction

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The TEODORA Awards (The Distinguished and Outstanding Rizalian Alumni Awards) is inspired by the life and virtues of Teodora Alonzo Rizal. It aims to recognize and honor the outstanding achievements of alumni of the Rizal High School, the premier educational institution named after her illustrious son and the Philippines’ National Hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal. The Awards also recognize and honor alumni classes and other sub-organizations affiliated with the Rizal High School Alumni Association, Inc. Through their exemplary lives, outstanding achievements and significant contributions to our Alma Mater, to the Alumni Association, to their communities and the society, they personify the noble role played by Teodora Alonzo Rizal in nurturing the national hero into becoming the greatest Filipino that ever lived.

An intelligent, hardworking, courteous, business-minded and well-read woman, she was the first and foremost teacher to the young Rizal. Most importantly, she led a life of selfless service and sacrifice for her family and her fellowmen - a fact that undoubtedly inculcated in the young Rizal the values of nationalism and unconditional love for his country. Just as she was a shining example and an enduring inspiration to the young Rizal, may the outstanding individuals and organizations that we honor with these Awards be looked upon as worthy role models who will inspire and challenge each one of us, especially the youth, into nurturing and emulating the ideals of Jose Rizal, and become active and committed partners in building a united, free, just and prosperous nation.

As a fitting representation for these virtues that we seek to extol through the TEODORA Awards, the RHSAAI Board of Directors and the Awards Committee commissioned Ms. Genalyn Tribdino-Bocar, Class 1981 alumnae and a TEODORA Awardee for the year 2005, to create the new TEODORA Awards logo that will be used in the medals and citations that will be awarded to distinguished RHS alumni. The logo shows the silhouette of Teodora Alonzo tutoring the young Rizal by the light of a gas lamp, a familiar scene that introduced countless generations of Filipinos to the virtues of a good education.

Henceforth, this logo shall be the enduring and constant representation of the role of Teodora Alonzo in the development of the young Jose Rizal into the Pride of the Malay Race and the Great Filipino - a role that each one of us is called upon to emulate in our development as a people, especially in providing the youth role models they can look upon as they take on the mantle of responsibilities as productive and responsible leaders and citizens of our beloved Philippines.

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The TEODORA Awards was conceptualized to provide a permanent and unique identity to the Outstanding Alumni Awards given out by the Rizal High School Alumni Association, Inc. (RHSAAI) as the highlight of its annual General Homecoming and Convention. As one of the major items in the Ten-Point Agenda adopted by the RHSAAI in 2004 during the incumbency of President Ronaldo Almestas, then 1st Vice-President Dennis E. Concepcion was tasked to review the existing awards and recognition program and provide recommendations on how it can be made more attuned to the times and become more pervasive in reflecting the school's proud legacy of excellence and service to others.

As part of this initiative, a new set of guidelines and regulations was developed to ensure continuity, uniformity and consistency in the search, evaluation and selection of the recipients of the award every year. Thus was born the TEODORA Awards as it is known today. The first set of awards were given in 2004 during the incumbency of 2nd-Vice President Rolando Feliciano as Chair of the Awards Committee, and has since been the highlight of the annual homecoming every first Saturday of December.

This online tribute to the outstanding alumni who have been honored with the TEODORA Award was launched in 2008 during the incumbency of RHSAAI President Myrna P. Neri and Awards Selection Committee Chair Gibet Cuevas.

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2008 - Dennis E. Concepcion

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Dennis E. Concepcion
Class 1981

Presidential Award for Excellence in Alumni Services

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2008 - Arnold Pulhin

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Arnold Pulhin
Class 1975

Outstanding Alumni for Business Entrepreneurship

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2008 - Angelita Luis Cagalingan

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Angelita Luis Cagalingan
Class 1953

Outstanding Alumni for Education and Youth Development

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2008 - PO3 Andrew M. Mendres

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PO3 Andrew M. Mendres
Class 1981

Outstanding Alumni for Public Service

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2008 - Dr. Corazon Y. Ocampo

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Dr. Corazon Y. Ocampo
RHS Class 1956

Outstanding Alumni for Humanitarian and Community Services

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2008 - Alumni Class 1969

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Most Outstanding Alumni Class

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2008 - Alumni Class 1965

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Outstanding Alumni Class
for Social Development

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2004 - Imelda V. Macaraig

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Imelda V. Macaraig, Class 1969

Education and Youth Development

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2004 - Bernardo A. Benito

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Bernardo A. Benito, Class 1966

Trade and Labor

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2004 - Victorino P. Lacambacal

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Victorino P. Lacambacal, Class 1955

Business Entrepreneurship

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2004 - Pricilla Magante-Quinn

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Pricilla Magante-Quinn, Class 1961

Professional Excellence

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2004 - Editha C. Santiago

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Editha C. Santiago, Class 1962

Humanitarian and Community Services

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2004 - Rebecca T. Anonuevo

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Rebecca T. Anonuevo, Class 1981

Culture, Media and the Arts (Literature)

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2004 - Aproniano C. Tangco

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Aproniano C. Tangco, Class 1940

Life Achievement Award

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2005 - Alumni Class Awards

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RHS Alumni Class 1969

Most Outstanding Alumni Class

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RHS Alumni Association of North America, Inc.
Excellence in Alumni Development

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RHS Alumni Class 1981
Excellence in School Development

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RHS Alumni Class 1975
Excellence in Social Development

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2005 - Pablo P. Perez

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Pablo P. Perez, Class 1955

Presidential Award for Alumni Services

Commodore Pablo P. Perez, PN (Ret.) will always be remembered for steering the RHSAAI with an uncommon wisdom, focused and dedicated to the attainment of the association’s goals. True to his naval background, he was always “full steam ahead” and “damn the torpedoes” for the past and present Board of Directors who have had the pleasure, and the “pain” of working with him. To him, it was always a race against time, not a minute to be wasted for there are so many things that still needs to be done. His almost-impossible challenges to the members of the Board can only be matched by his own determination to succeed.

Comm. Perez was president of the RHSAAI in 2003. In 2004, although formally relinquishing his duty as President, he redefined the role of the Immediate Past-President and actively participated in the affairs of the association. Despite knowing the difficulties, he did not shy away from the challenged when he was asked to Chair the Preparatory Committee for the proposed RHS Alumni Foundation. He took it upon himself to research on, study, conceptualize and sought the ideas and concerns of all sectors of the association. He is indeed faithful to the saying “Old soldiers never retire, they just keep on going, and going, and going…”

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2005 - Genalyn Tribdino-Bocar

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Genalyn Tribdino-Bocar, Class 1981

Culture, Media and the Arts (Visual Arts)

The Enchanted Kingdom never fails to amaze visitors with its life-like models of American streets. Kids romp around in a playground filled with Art in Kiddie Wonderland and at the Small World at the Marketplace in Mandaluyong. People stare in reverent awe at the “The Resurrection” mural at the lobby of the Legend Hotel in Palawan. Art does not belong to the confines of galleries and museums. It belongs to the people, and must be lived and felt in our everyday lives. And we have Genalyn Tribdino Bocar to thank for this resurgence of art in our surroundings.

These, and many other commissioned works, are but a few of the projects that Genalyn worked on as an artist, muralist and creative design consultant. Her work has graced both residential and commercial establishments and has been featured in many publications. Her partnership with her husband Reynaldo, who is also an artist, is most sought after for their excellent craftsmanship and professionalism. Truly an artist for the people, her work touches the common people as they go about their daily lives.

Genalyn took up Architecture after graduating from the Rizal High School in 1981. She earned her degree from the Central Colleges of the Philippines in 1987. Her marriage with Reynaldo bore them two sons. In 1997, the husband and wife team established the REPHAZA STUDIO, now known as RHEPAZA Fine Art Surface Decorations.

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2005 - Timoteo M. Saguinsin

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Timoteo M. Saguinsin, Class 1956

Culture, Media and the Arts (Literature)

Timoteo M. Saguinsin, or Tim as his friends and family would call him, has contributed to the advancement of Philippine culture and arts in the United States of America as well as in the Philippines.

In the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, Tim is an active member of the Filipino-American Community Action Group. Championing his roots, he worked with this group, in cooperation with the Virginia Public Schools, to teach the Filipino language to interested students, as well as adults. He has taken this upon himself since 1992 and has recently been recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation for his volunteer work.

In July 2004, he published a book of poetry about his beloved hometown, Angono Rizal – a town of rustic beauty and cradle of great artists. True to his patriotic nature, he donated copies of his book to several schools and libraries in the Philippines.

Tim is a graduate of the Angono Elementary School before attending Rizal High School and finishing his secondary education in 1953. After high school, he stopped going to school due to financial difficulties and instead worked as street sweeper in Caloocan, Malabon and Navotas for two years. In 1959, after passing the General Clerical Examination, he worked as a postal clerk at the main post office in Manila while taking night classes at Adamson University. In 1961, he joined the US Navy, enlisting at the Sangley Point Naval Base in Cavite. He retired in 1987 as a Chief Warrant Officer Four, rising from the ranks through hard work and dedication. In 1989, he earned his Associate in Business Administration from the Virginia Beach Campus of Tidewater Community College.

Tim is married to the former Dolores R. Tolentino, also a native of Angono, and is blessed with three children – Donna Frances, Mary Pauline and Tim Darren.

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2005 - Estrella Alan Benamer

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Estrella Alan Benamer, Class 1961

Information and Communications Technology

It was Ms. Estrella Alan Benamer’s idea to organize the Rizal High School Alumni Association of North America (RHSAA-NA). With eight other RHS alumni, she founded the RHSAA-NA in 1991, of which she became President in the year 2000. Members of the RHSAA-NA concede that without her foresight, this very active organization would not have been formed, and RHS would have been denied the many help and assistance that this group has been extending since its inception almost 15 years ago.

She immigrated to the United States in 1972 where she worked first at the computer department of Wellsco Data Center. She was trained and worked as a console operator for huge IBM mainframe computers. In 1978, she transferred to Standard Oil Company (now Chevron Texaco Corporation) at their Concord office where she became a Systems Hardware and Software Analyst at its Technology Center. Later she worked as a Network/Email Encryption Analyst.

Esty, as she is fondly called, is very dedicated in helping RHS and its students. In 1997, she accompanied RHS students and teachers in their study tour in California, including visits to Intel Corporation, University of California – Berkeley and at the Stanford University.

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2005 - Roxanne Angeles Salem

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Roxanne Angeles Salem, Class 1949

Pedagogy

If there is anyone who was destined and born to be a teacher, it might just be Dr. Roxanne Angeles Salem. For dedicating her life educating her students from 1952 to 1997, she was recognized by her hometown, Pasig City, as an “Outstanding Pasigueño in the Field of Education” in the year 2000 during the celebration of the 427th Araw ng Pasig.

A full-blooded Pasigueña, she was born on September 7, 1932. She graduated from the Pasig Elementary School in 1944 and finished her secondary schooling at the Rizal High School in 1949. Even the ravages of World War II did not stop this feisty lady from her chosen vocation. She earned her Elementary Teachers Certificate from the National Teachers’ Collage in 1950, a Bachelor of Science in Education from the Arellano University in 1953, her Master of Public Administration from the University of the Philippines in 1978, and a Doctorate in Public Administration from the Centro Escolar University in 1987.

Her career in education eloquently demonstrate her skills and determination to excel – she was an elementary school principal at the Angono Pilot School from 1966 to 1970, was the Public Schools District Supervisor for Pasig from 1970 to 1975, the Division Nutrition Supervisor for Rizal Province from 1975 to 1983 and the Schools Division Superintendent for Rizal from 1985 to 1995 and for the Province of Laguna from 1995 to 1997. At present, she is a Professional Lecturer for Masteral and Doctoral Programs in Public Administration and Education at the Rizal State University.

She is the widow of Atty. Romulo Rubio Salem, Sr., with whom she has two children, Marinella and Romulo, Jr. She served as member of the Board of Directors of the RHSAAI from 1989 to 1991.

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2005 - Romeo M. Luis

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Romeo M. Luis, Class 1956

Hydrogeology

Dr. Romeo M. Luis is a graduate of the University of London in 1972, earning a PhD degree in Hydrogeology. It is also in this same university that he finished his Master of Science in Hydrogeology in 1967. He received his diploma in Applied Geology from the University of the Philippines and his Bachelors Degree in Mining Engineering from the Mapua Institute of Technology. At the Mapua, he was a consistent scholar and was a gold medalist when he graduated. In 2000, he was awarded as the Most Outstanding Mapuan in the Field of Geology.

Dr. Luis is currently the President of CALCS, Inc., a position he has held since 1996. This company is an engineering consultancy company engaged in water resources, supply and feasibility studies, environmental impact assessment, and ground water exploration, including geo-resistivity surveys. He is also the Vice-President of the Golden Fields Property Management Corporation.

He is married to the former Juliet Cinafranca from Dumaguete City, whom he met while he was studying in London. He excels in his field of expertise and by his achievements has contributed to the advancement and betterment of her chosen profession. His achievements are testaments to our Alma Mater’s proud tradition of academic excellence and reinforce its exalted position as an eminent educational institution not only in the Philippines but also throughout the world.

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2005 - Ester S. Bitanga

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Ester S. Bitanga, Class 1965

Medicine-Neurology

Dr. Ester Santos Bitanga graduated Salutatorian of the Rizal High School class of 1965 and proceeded to take Pre-Medical Education at the University of the Philippines as entrance scholar. Graduating in 1969, she continued her medical studies at the same school, earning her medical degree in 1973 as Outstanding Clinical Clerk. She had her internship at the UP-PGH Medical Center and was chosen as Outstanding Intern in Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Ophthalmology.

Never to rest on her laurels, she obtained postgraduate training as Internal Medicine Resident at the UP-PGH Medical Center from 1975 to 1977 and as a Neurology Resident from 1977 to 1988. From July 1979 to June 1982, she had her residency training in Neurology at the University of Toronto in Ontario Canada. She was a Chief Resident for Clinical Neurology at the Toronto General Hospital.

She is currently the Chair of the Faculty Committee of the UP College of Medicine, 1st VP of the Stroke Society of the Philippines, Chief Section of Neurology of the Asian Hospital Medical Center, among many other positions of responsibility that she has held. She has presented papers in international meetings and published research papers and other scholarly publications.

She excels in her field of expertise and by her achievements has contributed to the advancement and betterment of her chosen profession. Her achievements are testaments to our Alma Mater’s proud tradition of academic excellence and reinforce its exalted position as an eminent educational institution not only in the Philippines but also throughout the world.

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2005 - Camila C. Gonzales

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Camila C. Gonzales, Class 1962

Education and Youth Development

Ms. Camila Cortez Gonzales was born on 17 June 1946 in Pateros Rizal, now Metro Manila. She is married to Eduardo S. Gonzales and is blessed with two children, Armand and Fe Carmina. She finished her elementary education at the Pateros Elementary School in 1958 and her secondary education at the Rizal High School in 1962. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the Philippine Normal College in 1966, and in 1971 was conferred a Master of Arts in Education by the same institution. She was made a Doctor of Philosophy after completing the requisite course at the University of the Philippines in Diliman in 1990.

Ms. Gonzales has a long and distinguished career as educator and author, spending years as an elementary school teacher, as author of numerous research publications and books, as a faculty member of the Philippine Normal University where she also held various positions of responsibility, and as an international consultant in education. Through her lifelong vocation as an Educator, she has contributed significantly towards the development of the youth through education and other endeavors that seek to uplift their welfare and prepare them for their role as responsible and productive citizens and future leaders of our country.

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2005 - Corazon S. Dela Paz

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Corazon S. Dela Paz, Class 1956

Life Achievement Award

Corazon Santos Dela Paz is no stranger to being first in many things. She was the first woman to be admitted as a Partner of Price Waterhouse International in 1973, and the first woman to be named Senior Partner and Chair of Joaquin Cunanan & Co. (now Price Waterhouse Coopers – Philippines) in 1981. In its 47 years of history, she is also the first woman to be appointed as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Social Security System in August, 2001. On the international arena, she was the first Asian and also the first woman to become President of the International Social Security Association (ISSA). Closer to home, she was elected as the first regular President of the Rizal High School Alumni Association, Inc. In 1989.

She has served as President of many professional organizations, including the Management Association of the Philippines, Financial Executives Association of the Philippines, Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Cornell Club of the Philippines, and the Philippine Fulbright Scholars Association. In 1995, she was elevated to the PICPA Accountancy may of Fame, and was hailed as The Outstanding Filipino in Public Accounting in 2000. She has received many more awards and commendations in her professional career, a testament to her many achievements.

Ms. Dela Paz graduated from the Rizal High School in 1956 and proceeded to study Business Administration at the University of the East, graduating Magna Cum Laude. She placed first in the 1960 Philippine board examination for Certified Public Accountants. She earned her Masters in Business Administration degree from Cornell University as a Fulbright and University of the East scholar. She hails from Pateros Rizal (now Metro Manila) and is the widow of the late Wenceslao Dela Paz, who was Chair of the National Power Corporation and Presidential Adviser on Energy Affairs until 1992.

Ms. Corazon Santos Dela Paz is being honored with the TEODORA Life Achievement Award as she exemplifies the ideals of Teodora Alonzo and Jose Rizal by living a life dedicated to excellence and leadership, selfless service to her family, to our Alma Mater the Rizal High School, to the Rizal High School Alumni Association, Inc., to the society and the country. We recognize her achievements that make her worthy of emulation as a role model not only for our fellow alumni, but for the rest of the society as well.

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2007 - Alumni Class 1969

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RHS Alumni Class 1969

Most Outstanding Alumni Class

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2007 - Alumni Class 1965

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RHS Alumni Class 1965

Excellence in Social Development

Site under construction.

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2007 - Ronaldo G. Almestas

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Ronaldo G. Almestas, Class 1978

Presidential Award for Alumni Services

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2007 - Benito O. de Lumen

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Benito O. de Lumen, Class 1957

Agricultural Chemistry and Biochemistry

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2007 - Estelita Ison-Samolde

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Estelita Ison-Samolde, Class 1956

Business Entrepreneurship

Site under construction.

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2007 - Isidro B. Garcia

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Isidro B. Garcia, Class 1953

Government and Public Service

If there is one person who is highly exceptional, especially in public service, he is no other than the former Mayor of Taguig City, Isidro "Ising" B. Garcia. He started as a private citizen, a professional and a businessman, until he was appointed Officer-In-Charge of the then Municipality of Taguig in 1986 by then President Corazon C. Aquino.

His stint as OIC, and then elected Mayor, of Taguig had been very colorful, fruitful and memorable for all Taguigenos. It was during his term when a clear and definite direction into the development of Taguig as "Asia's Super City" by the turn of the century was conceived. Mayor Garcia met the challenge of the times by completely focusing on his administration's priority programs that bore a tremendous and profound impact on the comprehensive and holistic attainment of his goals for Taguig. With his priority program of innovative governance, he has brought about a kind of development that is people-centered and focused. He has skillfully synchronized and balance his programs for ecology, health, nutrition and population control, education, culture and technology, peace and order, infrastructure and livelihood. He has injected and made use of his private experience in management to his style of governance as the town's mayor.

Lady luck has been very kind to Mayor Ising, as what townsfolk commonly call him, since it was during his incumbency when the final blueprint for the development of Taguig's most precious piece of land, the Fort Bonifacio area, projected to become the next global city was completed. This included the highly significant signing of the Memorandum of Agreement by and between the Municipality of Taguig; represented by Mayor Garcia, Hon. Congressman Dante O. Tinga and the Chairman and President of the Bases Conversion Development Corporation, respectively. The final master plan of the valued evolution was approved by all the City and Municipal Mayors of Metro Manila, representing the entire Council of the Metro Manila Development Authority - all thru the effort of Mayor Isidro B. Garcia.

It was also during the administration of Mayor Garcia that the city hood of the municipality of Taguig was conceptualized and envisaged for approval into law. Mayor Garcia undertook the preparation of voluminous documents needed by Representative Dante O. Tinga, who earnestly took the cudgels for its approval in Congress.

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2007 - Ofelia Oracion-Flojo

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Ofelia Oracion-Flojo, Class 1956

Education and Youth Development

A shining example of a truly and passionately dedicated and committed educator, she led a life towards excellence and leadership that benefited the youth in particular and the country in general. Her endeavors to uplift the educational process led, motivated and inspired the studentry to cultivate healthy and positive outlook and attitudes towards life through the pursuit of knowledge and skills that ultimately made them whole and complete as individuals in the eyes of God and Man.

Starting as an elementary grades teacher at Angono Elementary School for two decades, she rose from the ranks to become Master Teacher I for 7 years, then to Master Teacher II. After only a year, she was promoted to Education Supervisor I (English) in the division of Rizal for 14 fruitful and credible years. Not long after, in the year 2003 - 2004, she was again promoted to Education Supervisor II (English) in Region IV-A, and finally as Assistant Chief (ESIII), EED in the same region until her retirement in 2004.

Her expertise as a Demonstration Teacher and as PRODED Trainer earned her the opportunities to be always included in the Supervisory Skills Enhancement Programs and Campus Journalism in her capacity as lecturer, presenter or facilitator. Up to now, she is a professional lecturer at the Philippine Normal University and University of Rizal System. She authored and evaluated several books and instructional materials mostly on enhancing students' reading capabilities and improving skills in the use of the English language, both in the elementary and secondary levels.

Her outstanding accomplishments were wholeheartedly recognized and gained her several awards such as the Plaque of Recognition for her exemplary 45 years in service given by DEP-Ed Association of Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs of Elementary Education in 2005, Plaque of Commendation as Most Outstanding Educator in the Division of Rizal in 2003, Rizal Outstanding Teacher in 1985 and RPSTA Outstanding Award in 1984. In 2006, her High School Batch of 1956 awarded her a Certificate of Recognition and Achievement.

Her retirement did not deter her from being continuously productive in her profession. She's still active as a Trustee of the Philippine Association of Literary Network, Inc. and the Reading Association of the Philippines; as Member of the International Reading Association and RELCAAP; and as Vice President of PAES, Region IV Chapter. She also serves as Trainor-Facilitator of the National English Proficiency Training Program (NEPP) of DepEd training elementary school teachers in teaching Beginning Reading.

She finished her elementary education at Angono Elementary School and her secondary education at the Rizal High School in 1956. She took up BSEE Combined Course and MAT in Language Testing at the Philippine Normal College. She was married to the late Fortunato F. Flojo with whom she has seven children.

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2007 - Teresa Santos-Raymundo

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Teresa Santos-Raymundo, Class 1953

Humanitarian and Community Services

An accomplished public school teacher and avant-garde socio-civic and religious leader and a politician's wife who served as First Lady of the City of Pasig during the incumbency of her husband, Mayor Mario B. Raymundo.

She showed her untiring involvement in many socio-civic affairs of which only "Laching" could perform most faithfully in her capacity as First Lady of Pasig. Her participation in the distribution of relief goods to victims of flood and typhoon, in the operation of day care centers in the barangays and in the implementation of the Mayor's scholarship program for the welfare of poor children are only some of the important community services that she has rendered in behalf of the Mayor.

Not to be overlooked is her involvement in the spiritual renewal of the parishioners of Pasig and her humanitarian concern for the indigents. Her numerous activities as a lay leader in the affairs of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral attest to her genuine piety in the service of the Lord. Her participation in the Soup Kitchen and the many medical missions she has engaged in show her genuine concern for the welfare of the poor. Laching's bag-making project, out of news prints, generate additional income for poor families.

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2007 - Jovito R. Salonga

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Jovito R. Salonga, Class 1936

Life Achievement Award

Born of poor parents in Pasig, Rizal on June 22, 1920. Married to Lydia Santiago Busuego of Cabanatuan and Manila. They have five children, three of whom are in the Philippines. The other two are now residents of the United States.

Ka Jovy, as he is fondly and reverently addressed in Pasig, was the Senate President of the Philippine Congress from July 1987 to DEcember 1991. He was the Senate's first president after it was restored by the new constitution ratified after the downfall of the Marcos regime. During his incumbency, the Philippines reasserted its soverignity by not renewing the lease on American bases in the Philippines.

Prior to being Senate President, he was appointed by President Cory Aquino as the first Chair of the Presidention Commission on Good Government in 1986 following the historic EDSA Revolution. Before going in exile in the United States, he was a Senator of the Republic from 1965 to 1971. He was badly wounded during the Plaza Miranda bombing, but topped the senatorial elections that year, as in the elections of 1965 and 1987. Prior to being elected Senator, he was elected Congressman representing the 2nd district of Rizal in 1961.

At present, he is the Chair Emeritus of Kilosbayan - an ecunemical, non-profit, independent, ethics-oriented people's organization to promote the cause of truth, justice and antional renewal. He is also the Chair Emeritus of the Bantayog ng mga Bayani Foundation, which was organized to honor the nation's martyrs, many of whom despite their youth and promising future gave their all during the dark days of Martial Law. The Foundation also honors modern day heroes.

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2006 - Josue Ona

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Josue Ona, Class 1963

Presidential Award for Alumni Services

The Association, through its President, recognizes Mr. Josue Ona as having rendered invaluable services and has made significant contributions towards the achievement of the goals of the RHSAAI.

Joe was a former President of RHSAAI in North America and is currently its 2nd VP, and has been recognized for his numerous services and contributions to keep the association going and servicing more of our fellow alumni in North America.

He is the Chairman of the Student Visit Program and Fund Raising for the student visit and scholarship funds for RHSAAI, and was instrumental in bringing RHS students and faculty members, including its Principal, to the United States in 2003 While in the United States, he served as their host and facilitated their visits to various schools and learning institutions. The learning experiences of these students and faculty members made them further hone their expertise and bring back to the country new sets of knowledge and experiences they can share with their fellow students and teachers. In gratitude, those who participated in the program honored him with a plaque of appreciation. At present, Mr. Ona chairs the committee raising funds again in order to bring to the United States another batch of students and faculty members.

Mr. Ona graduated from the Rizal High School in 1963, and finished his Bachelors Degree in Engineering at the MAPUA Institute of Technology in 1970. He earned his Masters Degree in Business Administration at the Jose Rizal College in 1979. He also earned a Bachelors Degree in Theology in 2006 from the Vision International University of Ramona California USA. Mr. Ona is a renowned businessman, realtor and broker for 19 years in the United States and founded the first Fil-Am Real Estates Brokerage in the US.

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2006 - Alumni Class 1965

2008-11-26T23:27:00.004+08:00

RHS Alumni Class 1965

Excellence in Alumni Development

CLASS 1965 is conferred the TEODORA Award for Alumni Development for serving the interest of the alumni, the school and the society through their support and unqualified support in the projects and activities of the RHSAAI.

The class donated the Bulletin Board and the sound system for the Alumni Hall and held various symposia for the alumni and faculty members of the Rizal High School, among which are the symposia on Memory Problem, hypertension and the well attended "Sex and the Heart". They also donated library materials as well as sports equipment for the students of the Rizal High School.

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2006 - Alumni Class 1969

2008-11-26T23:26:00.003+08:00

RHS Alumni Class 1969

Excellence in Social Development

Class 1969 is conferred the TEODORA Award for Social Development for their exemplary projects and advocacies that benefit various communities and alleviates the lives of marginalized members of the community.

The class translates the social responsibilities of the Association into tangible actions. Among their community projects are: medical mission for the residents of Barangay Nagpayong, medicine donation to Barangay San Nicolas, medicine donation to the Rizal High School clinic and a feeding program for the less privileged students of the Rizal High School.

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2006 - Alumni Class 1956

2008-11-26T23:24:00.004+08:00

RHS Alumni Class 1956

Excellence in School Development

Class 1956 is conferred the TEODORA Award for rendering invaluable services and significant contributions to the Rizal High School, enabling it to provide better services and benefits to its students and employees. This group provided help and support to the Rizal High School in various areas including their support to faculty and student development.

Among their projects includes sponsorship of the Student Debate between the students of Rizal High School and the Pasig Catholic College in order to help increase the English proficiency of the student participants. They also conducted Career Guidance for the senior class sharing with them their success stories in their chosen fields.

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2006 - Anita Agustin

2008-11-26T23:22:00.002+08:00

Anita Agustin, Class 1953

Culture and the Arts

Ms. Anita Agustin is an outstanding alumnus of Rizal High School who significantly contributed to the advancement of culture and the arts and thus promoting well-rounded human development as an essential component of our nation’s progress. She has engaged in cultural heritage promotion and preservation through her various work of arts and advocacies in creating awareness in young minds and teachers the love for arts.

Ms. Anita Agustin served various schools as elementary school teacher from her tender age of 19. she started her teaching career at the Pateros Elementary School and ended up in Paloma Elementary School and Alvin Dunn Elementary School in the United States. In all her teaching stints, she pursued the advocacy to teach the children as well as the teachers to love arts and instill in their minds that involving in arts is not an expensive activity. In 1961, she was selected as one of the six teacher-scholars to study Fine Arts at the University of the Philippines for one year, sponsored by the Department of Education and the Shell Company of the Philippines.

She sponsored an art exhibit in the Provincial Capitol of Rizal participated by more than 300 students and 150 teachers using scrap materials such as used labels of canned goods, cigarette foils, dried leaves, twigs etc. the idea is to re-cycle materials so they will be turned into pleasing materials. She also launched a one-woman art exhibit at the penthouse of the Metrobank in Makati City.

She has been Art Supervisor and Coordinator in the Division of Rizal, and has lectured in various art gatherings all over the country. When in the United States, she never tires of teaching our local culture and arts as she taught her foreign students Filipino arts and dances. She was also into bilingual education. Ms. Agustin graduated from Pateros Elementary School in 1949 and in the Rizal High School in 1953. She finished her Bachelor in Elementary Education at the Philippine Normal College in 1958. In 1965, she was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation and Recognition by the PNC Alumni Association for her valuable, meritorious and outstanding service in the Division of Rizal.

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2006 - Josephine Cruz

2008-11-26T23:20:00.002+08:00

Josephine Cruz, Class 1979

Education and Youth Development

Ms. Josephine M. Cruz , incumbent Principal of the Rizal High School, has contributed significantly towards the development of the youth through education and other endeavors that seek to uplift their welfare and prepare them to be good leaders of the country.

Ms. Cruz was once a teacher of Rizal High School, and because of her exemplary service to the school, she was promoted as Principal in 1999 - the youngest Principal in its 104 years of history. As principal of the largest high school in the world, Ms. Cruz endeavors to uplift the school’s academic standards, technological, cultural, artistic and leadership skills and capabilities of students as well as strengthening their Filipino values towards attaining national development goals.

She authored various books and instructional materials being used by students. Among them are: Writer, Guide for English I, Teaching Scriptwriter of PTV-4 CONSTEL English, Prototype lesson Plans with Multi Media Integration for English for School of the Future, Teaching Support Materials for English Teachers, Experiencing Powerful English, and a coordinator of Reading.com.ph. Ms. Cruz was given numerous awards for her unparalled support for the cause of education and the youth given by various government agencies and institutions here and abroad.

Ms Cruz Graduated from Rizal High School in 1979, and a was a college scholar at the Pasig Catholic College where she graduated Cum Laude in 1983. She took her Masters in Education at the University of the Philippines in 1990, Diploma in Applied Linguistic in Singapore in 1992 and Doctor of Philosophy at the University of the Philippines in 2005.

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2006 - Lualhati Buenafe

2008-11-26T23:18:00.003+08:00

Lualhati Buenafe, Class 1953

Government and Public Service

Atty. Lualhati Buenafe has rendered exemplary services to the country and demonstrated the true meaning of public service - a life highlighted with honesty, integrity and commitment to the welfare of the people over and above her own - a public servant worth emulating.

Atty. Buenafe joined the government service in 1961 at the Justice Department. She was appointed State Prosecutor by Pres. Marcos in 1980, Senior State Prosecutor after the EDSA I People Power Revolution; Assistant Chief State Prosecutor under the regime of President Ramos and served as OIC-Under Secretary of Justice in 2001. She is the first woman to hold the position of Chief State Prosecutor and Under-Secretary of Justice.

Among her notable accomplishment was her unwavering fight against infringers and pirates of the audio and video industry. In 1993, she headed the Task Force on Anti-Intellectual Property created by Sec. Franklin Drillon, and because of this achievement in fighting video piracy, she was awarded a Plaque of Appreciation by the MMFF in 1997. Eventually, she became head of the Videogram Regulatory Board during the time of Pres. Arroyo. In 2002, she was appointed Vice Chairman and Exec. Director of VRB, assisting Sen. Bong Revilla,Jr. Atty, Buenafe also served in various government agencies, such as the NAPOLCOM, NCIS, and the Dangerous Drugs Board. She is a CESO II, the second highest rank granted by the President of the Philippines for government executives.

Atty, Buenafe is a native of Angono, Rizal and is happily married for 43 years with another public servant, Buenaventura Buenafe, a retired Revenue District officer and OIC governor of Abra.

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2006 - Teresita dela Paz-Osorio

2008-11-26T23:16:00.002+08:00

Teresita dela Paz-Osorio, Class 1953

Humanitarian and Community Services

Mrs. Teresita dela Paz Osorio is recognized for her services and contribution to advance the cause and welfare of her community in Pasig City, especially the disadvantaged group. Her self-sacrifice and concern for others have gone beyond the call of duty, putting the interest of other people above hers without regard for monetary returns, recognition, favor and consideration.

A librarian by profession for more than 35 years, Mrs. Osorio has tremendously helped the formation of the youth and quenched their thirst for knowledge through reading books. She promoted the early formation of literacy among the youth of Ulilang Kawayan by providing a modestly equipped library - the Zonta Metro Pasig-Nuestra Senora de Guia Library. She continued to served her local community as a socio-civic and religious leader, whose main concern is the welfare of the poor specially the children. She involves children and the youth in her community in church work through prayer meetings and choir participation. Her endeavors were recognized by the City of Pasig, when she was awarded as one of the "Most Outstanding Pasigueno" in 2005.

A reader and a prolific writer, she was regular contributor to the Souvenir Program of the San Guillermo Town Fiesta and Araw ng Pasig Souvenir Program. She was a volunteer catechist at the RHS for 9 years. She is currently a library consultant and the acting City Librarian of Pasig. Mrs. Osorio served as Librarian/Chief Librarian in different institutions, among them are in the University of the Philippines, Office of the President, and the Pasig Library. She also served as documentation Officer for UNESCO based in Bangkok, Thailand.

Mrs. Osorio graduated at the Pasig Elementary School as Salutatorian in 1949 and as 3rd Honorable Mention at the Rizal High School in 1953. She finished her Bachelor of Arts in Library Science as an entrance scholar from the University of the Philippines and finished her Master of Library Science from the same University in 1977.

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2006 - Victorio Mejia

2008-11-26T23:13:00.002+08:00

Victorio Mejia, Class 1965

Business Entrepreneurship

Engineer Victorio Mejia is recognized for his perseverance as an entrepreneur, business acumen and managerial skills. He is able to develop and sustain a business enterprise that provides employment opportunities, thus uplifting the social and economic welfare not only of its employees but also the communities where the business is operating. The association honors him for his integrity, good corporate citizenship and social responsibility over profit as living proof that social commitment can co-exist with business success.

Engineer Victorio Mejia graduated from the Mapua Institute of Technology as chemical engineer in 1970. It was in this field that he developed his expertise in running a business. After graduation, he joined a company that traded chemicals and became its vice president after just 2 years. He established his fully-owned trading company, Excella Trade Center, Inc., which imported diversified chemicals serving various industries. He went around the world to further improve his business and management skills. His business flourished and expanded enormously. He complimented his chemical import business with a transportation business and further went into housing and construction business building residential and industrial projects.

At present, his business is still growing and is providing employment to hundreds of employees, thus uplifting their social and economic welfare too. Engr Mejia is the President and CEO of Excella Trade Center, President and CEO of VGM Excella Transport, Inc and President and CEO of Avello Development Corporation.

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2006 - Romualda Manalo-Guirriec

2008-11-26T23:09:00.003+08:00

Romualda Manalo-Guirriec, Class 1953

Professional Excellence in Nutrition and Dietetics

Dr. Romualda Manalo-Guirriec excelled in Nutrition and Dietetics here in the country as well as in the United States. In June 1981,the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) awarded her the distinction of being the "Outstanding Nutritionist-Dietitian of the Year". She was also given the "Achiever’s Award" by the Nutritionist-Dietitian Association of the Phil in 1985. In 1996, she was also recognized by the Medical Doctors of West Virginia University Medical Center W Va. for the conduct of metabolic studies and publication of three researches in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

As Head of the Research and Development Division of the Nutrition Center of the Philippines, Dr. Guirreic contributed in the development of food formulations for community feeding programs, in the control of anemia among pregnant women, in the fortification strategies for the control of Vit. A deficiency and in the dietary management of severely malnourished children, among others. She also practiced her profession as Chief Metabolic Research Nutritionist, and as a Dietitian in Oklahoma, USA, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and has been a lecturer and trainer in various countries. She also wrote several books, manuals and articles in different journals in her field. Among her published works are: Environmental Management Manual for Hotel and Restaurant Schools, HRAP, 1998; Alternate Foods for the Growing Population, 1977; A Manual on Nutri-Pak Production, 1980 and others.

Dr. Romualda Guirriec graduated from the Pateros Elementary School in 1949 and from the Rizal High School in 1953. She earned her Bachelor of Science on Home Economics major in Nutrition degree from the University of the Philippines in 1957. She took her Master of Science in Food, Nutrition and Institutional administration in Oklahoma State University in 1964 and her Doctorate in Education from the Philippine Women’s University in 1999, where she became its dean for 10 years.

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2006 - Estanislao Chupunco

2008-11-26T23:04:00.006+08:00

Estanislao Chupunco, Class 1952

Professional Excellence in Engineering

Estanislao Chupungco as an Engineer by profession excelled in his chosen career. He is an epitome of our Alma Mater’s proud tradition of academic excellence and help ensure our position as a preeminent educational institution not only in the country but in the world as well. He spent his productive years using his expertise in the areas of industrial chemicals and fertilizer manufacturing. He worked with various fertilizer companies, among which were the Phil Phosphate Fertilizer Corporation where he served for 7 years as Sr. VP for Domestic Trade; consultant to Pheschem Industrial Corp and Atlas Fertilizer. It was in Atlas Fertilizer where he spent almost two decades of supervising fertilizer manufacturing, development of formula and research and development. He traveled the world to further hone his expertise. He also shared his knowledge in several symposium and conferences that he attended.

Among his notable achievements are the several inventions he worked on and co-authored which earned patents to his name from the Phil. Patent Office as well as from International Patent granting authorities. Among them are: the conversion of Philphos Sulfuric Acid Plant from pyrite burning to sulfur burning operation; Co-author of the invention of the Production of Pure Copper Powder from Copper Sulfate/Nitrate Solutions which was granted international patent; Author of invention on Sulfur Burning in a Fluidized Red Roaster Sulfate with patent; author of the invention on production of CO2 and ammonium Sulfate from Urea, with patent pending.

Engr. Chupungco has been the President of Fertilizer industry Association of the Philippines in 1997 and 1998, a Member of the Phil Inventors Society, Phil. Institute of Chemical Engineers, Jaycees and Knights of Columbus. He graduated with a BS in Chemical Engineering degree at the Univeristy of Sto. Tomas in 1956 belonging to the top 10 of the graduating class and 3rd placer in the Chemical Board Examination.

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2006 - Atty. Emigdio G. Tanjuatco, Sr.

2008-11-26T19:54:00.002+08:00

Atty. Emigdio G. Tanjuatco, Sr.

Class 1929

Life Achievement Award

Atty. Emigdio G. Tanjuatco,Sr. exemplified the ideals of Teodora Alonzo and Jose Rizal through a life dedicated to excellence, leadership, selfless service toward his family, our Alma Mater, the society and the country. As the Tanjuatco patriarch of Rizal, among his many achievements are an outstanding political career, his law profession, being an excellent educator and as a serviceman is worth emulating. He is a role model for our fellow alumni and the society as a whole.

Atty Tanjuatco was born in Tanay, Rizal on August 5, 1912. He graduated from the Tanay Elementary School in 1925 – Honorable Mention; from the Rizal High School – Honorable Mention and as Class Salutatorian in FEU Institute of Laws in 1937. He was admitted to the Bar in 1937, garnering a rating of 84.85% and placing 12th in the Bar Exam.

At age 94, Atty Tanjuatco still practices law as a Senior Partner of the law firm Tanjuatco and Partners, which he himself founded. He served in various law offices and companies, among which are Philippine Airlines, Philippine National Bank, NAWASA, Unitrust Devt. Bank, National Investment and Devt Corporation. He was also the President and GM of the Tanay Elec.Power, now Tanjuatco Devt. Corporation. He also wrote various law books, among which are: Notes on Insurance Law - 1950, Notes on Credit Transactions – 1951, and Notes on Negotiable Instruments - 1951. He was also a Professor of Laws at the FEU Institute of Laws and at the Abad Santos Law School. He also served as Director of the anti-Dummy Board of the Dept of Justice 1954-57. Atty. Emigdio G. Tanjuatco,Sr. was our keynote speaker in the 2005 Grand Alumni Homecoming.

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