THE FOUNDER of the country’s largest chain of drug stores has vowed to continue supporting the education of pharmacy students in the Philippines, as he received an honorary doctorate from UST, the first school of pharmacy in the country.
“I have devoted my life in service of others, especially those who wish to pursue their own dreams and aspirations. In fact I’m happy to say I’m happy to do this, granting scholarships to deserving students to complete their pharmacy education here at UST,” Que said in his address during solemn investitute rites at the Medicine Auditorium last Sept. 9.
UST Rector Fr. Herminio Dagohoy, O.P. emphasized Que’s contributions to the pharmaceutical industry and corporate social responsibility.
“The pharmaceutical industry looks up to him as a source of inspiration not only for his distinctive brand of leadership, introducing many firsts in his field and exceptional work ethics which [are] truly worth emulating, but also for his incomparable humanitarian work,” Fr. Dagohoy said.
As a philanthropist, Que spearheaded programs to make medicines available to poor cities and municipalities, such as Bigay Lunas and Bigay Kalusugan.
In March 1945, the opening of the first Mercury Drugstore in Bambang, Manila marked the birth of the country’s pharmaceutical retail industry.
The University confers honorary doctorates on those who have attained exceptionally meritorious achievements in the arts, the sciences, the humanities and public service, in accordance with the rules and conditions established by the Commission in Higher Education. Clarence I. Hormachuelos
