NUS Alumni Network Manila Hosts Special Gathering with UP President Angelo “Jijil” Jimenez and Singapore Ambassador Constance See Sin Yuan

The NUS Alumni Network Manila Chapter brought together distinguished alumni, leaders in higher education, and diplomatic partners for a memorable evening on 22 November 2025 at the Executive House of the University of the Philippines (UP) in Diliman. Hosted in partnership with the Office of the UP President, the gathering aimed to strengthen ties between NUS alumni in the Philippines, the country’s top academic institution, and the Embassy of Singapore.

The event opened with registration and cocktails that set the tone for an evening of warm fellowship. The formal program began with Juan Paolo M. Artiaga (Public Policy’24) as host assisted by Guillermo L. Francisco II, (Public Policy ‘22). Welcome remarks were delivered by Patricia Villar Yambing (Business ’15), Vice-Chairperson of the NUS Alumni Network Manila Chapter, who emphasized the chapter’s commitment to building a vibrant and engaged community in the Philippines.

This was followed by an inspiring U.P. video presentation celebrating the university’s milestones and the spirit of public service that has defined generations of UP graduates. The chapter’s Chairperson, Dr. Venus Oliva Cloma-Rosales (Public Health ’13), then delivered a report on chapter activities, highlighting initiatives under NUS Cares and the chapter’s growing involvement in advocacy and outreach.

One of the evening’s special segments was the talk of the Singapore Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Constance See Sin Yuan. She shared thoughtful insights on the role of the Singapore Embassy in promoting robust Singapore-Philippines relations. This included NUS scholarships for Filipinos pursuing higher education in STEM, carbon credits and sustainability in Southeast Asia, and mutual care for SEA biodiversity. UP President Atty. Angelo “Jijil” Jimenez (Public Policy ’13) and Dr. Cloma-Rosales then presented a token of appreciation to Ambassador See, symbolizing a shared commitment to fostering mutual goodwill and academic ties.

A highlight of the evening was the Recognition of NUS Alumni from the Academe, led by Richard D. Tan (Public Policy ’13), former Chairperson of the Manila Chapter. Each NUS alumnus working in Philippine academic institutions was honored for their continuing service to education, research, and public policy. A photo session followed, capturing the moment with the UP President, the Singapore Ambassador, and the chapter’s leadership.

Attendees were then treated to a short video presentation highlighting President Jimenez’s journey at NUS and Harvard, providing personal context to the collaborative spirit that framed the evening’s event.

The introduction of President Jimenez by Ms. Jamie Lyn Duque Daileg (Public Policy ’16), Past President of the NUS LKYS Public Policy School Philippine Chapter, set the stage for his keynote address. In his message, President Jimenez reflected on the important role NUS alumni play in national development, particularly through their contributions to the academe, public service, and various professional fields. He noted that the Philippines is navigating a pivotal period in its history—one that calls for collective effort and forward-looking leadership. He emphasized the need to strengthen higher education and research, observing that the challenge of brain drain may be addressed by enabling Filipino scholars and experts abroad to collaborate more seamlessly with local institutions through supportive policy frameworks. President Jimenez also highlighted that threats to a nation’s well-being are not limited to traditional military concerns, but can emerge through economic pressures as well—underscoring the importance of resilience, innovation, and strategic national planning.

The program concluded with closing remarks from Lyndon Daz, Past Chairperson of LKYSPP Philippines Chapter, followed by a dinner that allowed guests to reconnect, expand networks, and celebrate shared milestones.