Santiago City, Philippines – John Lloyd A. Villanueva, Bachelor of Science in Accountancy graduate with honors (Magna Cum Laude) from the University of La Salette, Inc. has been recognized for his outstanding achievements. A beneficiary of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931) programs, Villanueva received the prestigious CHED-UnIFAST Academic Excellence Award Gold Medal and Certificate during a ceremony held on July 24th, 2024, at the ULS Exhibit Room.

Being recognized of Mr. Villanueva’s academic achievements, Dr. Madeilyn B. Estacio, ULS Vice President for Academic Affairs emphasized that the award honors UNIFAST grantees like Villanueva who excel academically, demonstrate leadership qualities, and actively participate in co-curricular activities and community service. The award, presented by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), recognizes students with the highest General Weighted Average based on established guidelines.

Villanueva expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating that to graduate in his program was just his initial goal. He credits his “Salettinian education” for molding him holistically. “Procrastination is a killer,” he emphasized, highlighting the importance of discipline and focused studying. He also acknowledged the crucial role of faith, family, and friends in his academic journey. Villanueva additionally highlighted the positive impact of the TES program, which significantly helped finance his education.

Looking ahead, Villanueva sets his sights on joining one of the Big Four global accounting firms – Deloitte, Ernst & Young (EY), PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), or Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG) – all of which hold worldwide recognition.

The ceremony was attended by University Deans and Office Heads including Dean Ruperto Jose H. Mateo, MIT (College of Accountancy), University Registrar Arnold A. Duldulao, MBM, Dean Marjorie S. Magbitang, MPA (Office of Student Services Affairs), Director Arjay Jonathan S. Sibalon, MAED (University Publication Office), and Ms. Aileen Bayang (UnIFAST Focal Person) and ULS TES Grantees. The University of La Salette, Inc. expressed its sincere gratitude to the Commission on Higher Education – Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (CHED-UnIFAST) for their contribution to Villanueva’s success.

Adding to his achievements, Villanueva was also awarded the Manny Villar Academic Excellence Award at the ceremony’s conclusion.

By Arjay Jonathan S. Sibalon, MAED

• #SDG4QualityEducation
• #SDG8DecentWorkandEconomicGrowth
• #SDG10ReducedInequalities
• #SDG17PartnershipfortheGoals