Celebrating Dr. Mariano C. Lao’s commitment to SU
When Dr. Mariano C. Lao received the Outstanding Sillimanian Award in 2018, he reflected on his journey, stating, “A life well lived is a life of having given back.” True to his words, he has generously supported his alma mater, a place he fondly calls his second home.
Over the years, Dr. Lao has made a profound impact on Silliman University (SU), establishing a scholarship fund, donating buildings, and financing various projects—all of which have empowered the institution to nurture individuals of character, competence, and faith.
As we prepare to inaugurate the new hub of the Global Studies Center, we honor and celebrate Dr. Lao’s generosity, a legacy that continues to inspire and transform lives.
Mariano Lao Scholarship
This scholarship program is available to academically qualified junior high school students who face financial constraints but aspire to pursue their education at Silliman University. It aims to provide deserving students with the opportunity to benefit from SU’s high-quality education, fostering academic excellence, character development, and holistic growth.
Mariano and Lina Lao Hall Activity Center
This two-story building, located in the Junior High School area, was established to serve as a dining and activity space for high school students. Designed for versatility, it accommodates both academic and extracurricular activities, not only for the high school but also for other academic units of SU.
Dr. Mariano Lao Innovation, Creation, and Invention Laboratory
As the community outreach arm of the University, this laboratory is dedicated to providing computer literacy programs that empower individuals across different age groups. Since its establishment, it has equipped senior citizens with essential digital skills, enabling them to navigate technology with confidence; educated the youth on digital literacy and critical thinking to combat disinformation; and enhanced the skills of faculty and staff, helping them adapt to the demands of a constantly evolving workplace.
Serving as a technology-oriented training facility, the laboratory continues to offer Free Computer Education for senior citizens, employees, students, and lifelong learners. Additionally, it provides Tech Research and Capstone Grants, as well as an Assistance Program that includes support such as rice, gadgets, and other essential resources.
Global Studies Center
The Dr. Mariano C. Lao Global Studies Center (SU-Lao GSC) envisions to become a hub for globally oriented, interdisciplinary studies and training through technology-enhanced learning. Its mission is to equip students and lifelong learners with relevant skills using flexible, technology-driven methods to ensure their adaptability in the workplace and society. The Center aims to offer stackable, online, non-degree programs that support lifelong learning, facilitate ICT-enabled teaching strategies across University centers, and promote technology-driven research, community engagement, and global partnerships. This includes initiatives such as free computer education and collaborations with alumni and international professional and research organizations.
Dr. Mariano C. Lao Digital Library For Stem
The Digital Library for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is a key component of the broader initiative to modernize the Silliman University Library System. Strategically located on the first floor of the Main Library, this cutting-edge facility redefines access to academic resources through digital innovation.
Designed to support mobility, accessibility, and collaboration, the STEM Digital Library will feature a variety of innovative learning stations and services, tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern learners. It will be equipped with the latest hardware and software infrastructure to deliver dynamic, user-centered educational experiences.
Information Center and Promenade, SU Beach Ecological Park
SU and the City Government of Dumaguete has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement on the establishment and maintenance of an Eco-Park in a property of the University, along Silliman Beach in Barangay Bantayan.
A key advocate of this vision, Dr. Lao, pledged his generous support in December 2018. His contribution to the project’s first phase plays a vital role in developing essential facilities, including the Information Center and a section of the boardwalk.
The Dr. Mariano Lao Excellence Awards in Online Teaching
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, online teaching became the norm to minimize disruptions in academic learning. In response, the Dr. Mariano Lao Innovation, Creation, and Invention Laboratory launched an award to honor Silliman University (SU) faculty who demonstrated exceptional standards in online teaching and students who exhibited resilience, hard work, and commitment to quality online learning.
Dr. Mariano Lao Educational and Emergency Support Fund (MLEESF)
SU and Dr. Lao established the Dr. Mariano Lao Educational and Emergency Support Fund (MLEESF) to provide financial assistance to enrolled students, active employees, and retired personnel affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The MLEESF offered a short-term, non-interest, and non-collateralized loan of up to PhP 15,000, with a maximum of PhP 30,000 in extreme cases, subject to fund availability. Loans had to be repaid within one year and were granted based on need, including school fees, medical emergencies, natural calamity-related losses, or the sudden death of an immediate family member.
A legacy of giving back
These are just a few of the many meaningful contributions Dr. Lao has given back to his beloved Silliman University. During his speech at the Outstanding Sillimanian Awards (OSA) ceremony at the Claire Isabel McGill Luce Auditorium, he shared the heartfelt reason behind his generosity: “Like anybody else, I love my home. I take care of my home. If possible, I’ll try to improve my home.” For Dr. Lao, Silliman is more than just an institution—it is his home, and his enduring commitment reflects his deep love and dedication to its growth and excellence.
Dr. Lao graduated from Silliman University High School in 1957. His enduring commitment to the University and its values has been recognized through several distinguished honors. In 2016, he was inducted into the Order of Horace Brinsmade Silliman, reflecting his shared vision with the University’s founder. Two years later, in 2018, he received the Outstanding Sillimanian Award for Business Entrepreneurship. In recognition of his remarkable contributions and unwavering support, the University conferred upon him the Doctor of Humanities, honoris causa, in 2019.
