From One to Another: BulSU Confers an Honorary Doctorate Degree to Sen. Villanueva

It takes an honorable institution to recognize another honorable entity. This is proven true as the Bulacan State University, led by its President, Dr. Cecilia S. Navasero-Gascon spearheaded the Solemn Investiture and Conferment of the Doctor of Laws Degree Honoris Causa for Senate Majority Floor Leader, Senator Joel Villanueva at the BulSU Valencia Hall, on January 12, 2023.

Senator Villanueva, the son of Eddie and Adoracion Villanueva, finished his studies at the University of Santo Tomas with a Commerce Degree, majoring in Economics. He also took Business Administration at Harvard University in the United States of America, from 1996 to 1998. Senator Villanueva is also the first Bulakenyo to seat in the Senate after almost 15 years and is also acknowledged as the voice of every Filipino Worker and a champion of Education.

The momentous event started at the BulSU College of Law commencing the Arrival Honors Ceremony to welcome the honoree and his companions. Followed by the Processional, which was participated by the BulSU Board of Regents, the Executive Committee, the Administrative Council, and the Academic Council with their Academic gowns. Dr. Gascon delivered the imposition of the mortarboard and opening remarks.

“For almost a decade, Bulacan State University has gone from strength to strength through the concerted efforts of the BulSU Community. Looking on the bright future, I am confident that Bulacan State University will accomplish all its aspirations”, the President expressed.

It was then followed by the reading of the Resolution approving the Honoris Causa which was delivered by the Dean of the College of Law, Atty. Nenita DC. Tuazon.

The Law Dean discussed the importance of the award as she stated the Honorary Degree Doctor of Laws Honoris Causa is an extraordinary degree awarded by a legal education institution to an eminent individual of integrity that has distinguished him/herself in the field of law.

Senator Joel Villanueva was presented with an Academic gown, the hood, and the Diploma. The BulSU Doctoral Regalia symbolizes recognition and achievement, the BulSU trademark cardinal red and yellow gold colors are also featured on the Doctoral hood. The Doctoral Headgear represents honor and distinction.

It was then followed reading of the Act of Agreement awarding the Honoris Causa by Dr. Edgardo M. Santos, the Vice President for Academic Affairs, while DOST III Regional Director Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat led the laudation upon the Honoree. Director Sicat also recognized the continuous support of Sen. Villanueva to the Community Improvement of the DOST.

The Honoree, Senate Majority Leader, and Sen. Joel Villanueva also provided an inspirational message and an acknowledgment to the BulSU community for conducting the historic event.

In his acceptance speech, he expressed his deep appreciation to everyone who attended the ceremony and also extended his gratitude to the University President, Dr. Cecilia S. Navasero-Gascon. He left an important message to every faculty member, “Realize that you have the opportunity to instill with them [students] the values of truth, the values of fairness. So, teach with passion and empathy… You don’t know when your influence stops, because much is given, much is required.”

The ceremony ended with an oathtaking led by Vice Chancellor for Instructions, Research, and Extension, Dr. Cecilia A. Geronimo for the Pledge of Loyalty to the Alma Mater, followed by the BulSU Law Alumni Association Director, Atty. Rosalia A. Bautista led the Pledge of Loyalty to the Law Alumni Association. Lastly, the Pledge of Loyalty to the BulSU Alumni Association was led by the BulSU Alumni Federation President, Dr. Rolando R. Gaspar.

Aside from the Honoree’s advocacy for educational reforms and relentless support for the academe, Sen. Villanueva is also a key player in the construction of BulSU’s seven-storey E- Library, a keen supporter of the BulSU Campus 2 and San Rafael Campus, and a member of the BulSU Board of Regents.