Dennis “Jigg” Malabed, a UST Commerce alumnus who wrote for the Varsitarian’s Filipino and arts and culture sections, died on May 2 after suffering a heart attack. He was 52.
His death was confirmed to the Varsitarian by his nephew, Roman.
“[He was] selfless, walang ibang inisip kundi ang pamilya,” Roman said. “Masayahin [siya] at hindi nagagalit. He loves to travel the world.”
During his time at UST, Malabed contributed to several student publications: he served as a features writer for the UST Commerce Journal, a literary editor for The Flame, and a Circle and Filipino writer for the Varsitarian.
He also served as secretary of the Thomasian Writers Guild in 1993.
Malabed graduated with a degree in economics from the University in 1993 and pursued a degree in literature from 1993 to 1994.
Mike Frialde, also a former Varsitarian staffer, remembered Malabed as an outstanding Thomasian who excelled in various aspects of writing.
“He was a great Thomasian and champion of Filipino literature,” Frialde said. “He was a prolific writer of both prose and poetry.”
Following his studies at UST, Malabed pursued a career as a graphics and web designer and developer. He later became an English instructor and project and business development manager in San José, Costa Rica, where he spent a significant portion of his career.
Malabed’s wake is scheduled for May 12 at the Garden of Memories Memorial Park Chapels in Pateros.
