SU and Ruby Y. Cruz, daughter of the late Col. Roman T. Yap, ink MOA for the Col. Roman T. Yap Endowment Fund

Silliman University (SU) and Ruby Y. Cruz, donor and daughter of the late Col. Roman T. Yap, and Ret. Judge Rafael Crescencio C. Tan, Jr., family friend and trustor, inked a memorandum of agreement (MOA), on April 25, 2025, establishing the “Col. Roman T. Yap Endowment Fund,” which aims to provide sustainable financial support for the activities of the Silliman University-Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (SU-ROTC) Program and ensure the long-term maintenance and improvement of related facilities.

The Endowment Fund will cover various initiatives, including cash incentives and awards for outstanding Advanced Cadets, provision and maintenance of the symbolic Col. Roman T. Yap Ring, funding for uniforms and ROTC equipment, and the restoration and upgrading of the Col. Roman T. Yap Hall and related facilities. It also includes preserving the bronze statue of Col. Yap, ensuring it remains a centerpiece regardless of the ROTC program’s status.

Additionally, the fund will support memorial and historical projects like the Wall of Heroes/Veterans of WWII, and if the ROTC Program is discontinued, the Endowment’s proceeds will be redirected to civic responsibility and leadership training programs, ensuring that Col. Yap’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Present at the SU Boardroom to sign the MOA were Dr. Betty Cernol McCann, SU president; Atty. Eduisa Rositte C. Diocos, chief finance officer; Dr. Earl Jude Paul L. Cleope, National Service Training Program (NSTP) coordinator; Dr. Betsy Joy B. Tan, ROTC assistant commandant; and Glynnis Jean C. Casiño, Strategic Partnership and Enterprise Development (SPED) officer-in-charge.