San Beda College honors its outstanding Alumni

Colegio de San Beda was inaugurated on June 17, 1901 and is now more than 100 years old. During the commemorative mass held on the school’s opening, Fr. Silvestre Jofre, OSB, first rector, said, "The College of San Beda comes to the arena with the sole purpose of helping to defend the Catholic battlements in the field of education…"

The school started with just 212 students taking up elementary and high school classes amidst a monastic community environment. Over the years, the school blossomed. The student population steadily grew as the school restructured its curriculum and more buildings and facilities were constructed. Today, San Beda College continues to thrive. It has become a diverse educational community of students, personnel, faculty, alumni and administrators – all united with the mission of contributing to the Church and to Philippine society.

During its most recent alumni homecoming, the school bestowed outstanding awards on its distinguished alumni who have embodied the Benedictine ideals of pax, ora et labora (peace, prayer and work). We cite four (4) Bedans, with distinct accomplishments in their respective fields.

Benigno S. Aquino Jr. was inducted into the San Beda Hall of Fame in Public Service for his indomitable spirit, his courage and patriotism; his defending and strengthening Philippine democracy; his diligence, perseverance, vision and faith in the Filipino people which made him a truly inspiring leader.

Alfredo C. Carmelo was inducted into the San Beda Hall of Fame in Arts as an international artist promoting the Philippine arts. He is especially renowned as the country’s first and only marine painter.

Roberto R. Concepcion was inducted into the San Beda Hall of Fame in Law for his exemplary and responsible leadership, as Chief Justice of the Philippines. He is known for his proven competence, integrity, work ethic and legal scholarship; his life of principled citizenship in dedicated service to democracy, freedom, human rights and the rule of law.

Basilio J. Valdes was inducted into the San Beda Hall of Fame in Military Service for his outstanding accomplishments as a distinguished soldier, exemplary public servant, and an eminent medical doctor; his being an exemplar for generations of students desiring to be part of military service. Few know he was part of the military contingent led by Gen. Douglas McArthur in the famous Leyte Landing, the only Bedan with such honor and privilege.

We join San Beda College in paying tribute to their four outstanding alumni who have contributed something positive to the history and progress of the country.