
THE UNIVERSITY’s “seven wise men” were conferred the title professor emeritus for their long and distinguished service in the Ecclesiastical Faculties and the administration.
Fr. Angel Aparicio, O.P., Fr. Rodel Aligan, O.P., Fr. Rolando dela Rosa, O.P., Fr. Fausto Gomez, O.P., Fr. Norberto Castillo, O.P., Fr. Javier Gonzales O.P. and Fr. Jose Maria Tinoko, O.P. received the distinction in a solemn investiture on Jan. 31 at the Dr. Robert Sy Grand Ballroom of the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building.
Two of the seven priests served as rector magnificus of the University while the others held various administrative posts.
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Ang, who called the awardees UST’s “seven wise men,” said the new professors emeriti had shaped the Ecclesiastical Faculties. He cited remarks by Archbishop Cesare Pagazzi, a top Vatican official who recently visited UST.
“He (Pagazzi) said, the Ecclesiastical Faculties of the University of Santo Tomas serve as a very essential and important bridge between Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. I think the Ecclesiastical Faculties will not be what it is today without the contribution of these seven wise men,” Ang said.
Ang said the awardees embody the seven wise men of ancient Greece renowned for their practical wisdom.
“Each of our honorees has excelled not only in sharing their teaching expertise, but also in academic leadership, groundbreaking research, mentorship, pastoral care, and social advocacy,” he said.
The Faculty of Theology recognized Aparicio, Aligan, Dela Rosa, and Gomez.
Aparicio was described by Ang as the “unshakable pillar” of the Miguel de Benavides Library, while Aligan was commended for his efforts in shaping the intellectual and moral development of people entrusted to his care.
An “authority in Church history,” three-time rector Dela Rosa offered “remarkable insights” in Church history that have informed the faith and practice of Thomasians.
Gomez, who delivered the acceptance speech on behalf of the honorees, was commended for offering guidance on ethical decision-making in his five-decade teaching stint.
“Indeed, the Ecclesiastical Faculties are very honorable, due to their history of continuing excellence, which is a glorious journey that it continues to have — like a pilgrim,” Gomez said. “One foot on the ground of the living past and the other foot in the air, open to change and renewal, and ready for a stride forward.”
Two-time rector Castillo was recognized by the Faculty of Philosophy for his expertise in philosophy that reflected the “highest standards of excellence.”
Named professor emeritus under the Faculty of Canon Law, Gonzales was cited for shaping Church governance that reflected justice and compassion, while Tinoko was feted for a 55-year teaching career that bridged theology with civil governance.
These contributions, Ang said, are “unique” and have made a “profound impact” on the Dominican mission.
“Their influence extends far beyond the classroom or their fields of expertise. They have shaped generations of students, guided colleagues, and strengthened the bonds of our community with their dedication and example while serving their terms of office,” he said.
Two of the new professors emeriti, Castillo and Dela Rosa, are former Varsitarian staff members.
The professor emeritus title, a lifetime distinction, is the highest award UST grants to academic staff who have attained not only the rank of full professor but have also achieved academic excellence and significant influence in their fields. with reports from Vince Alfred M. Pillagara