SU celebrates eight outstanding alumni
Every year, Silliman University honors outstanding alumni who embody the core values of Via, Veritas, Vita through their exceptional contributions in their fields and communities.
On August 28, 2025, eight remarkable Sillimanians from diverse backgrounds will be conferred the University’s highest distinction. Let’s take a closer look at the lives and legacies of this year’s Outstanding Sillimanian Awardees.
Dr. Rolando O. Borrinaga
Outstanding Sillimanian in the field of Cultural History
Dr. Rolando O. Borrinaga, a native of Naval, Biliran, traces his academic beginnings to Silliman University (SU), where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, major in Agribusiness, along with a Certificate in Philippine Studies in 1980. He later pursued a Master of Management in Public Management from the University of the Philippines Tacloban College and completed a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Science Research at Leyte Normal University.
As an undergraduate student, he was inspired by Silliman’s vibrant literary culture and the presence of esteemed writers, which nurtured his passion for writing. This led him to become a fellow of the SU National Writers Workshop. His early recognition as a fiction and poetry awardee during his college years hinted at a path that would eventually lead him away from agribusiness and into the field of historical and cultural research.
A pioneering historian of Eastern Visayas, Dr. Borrinaga is recognized nationally for his contributions to cultural history. His research on the Balangiga Conflict of 1901 played a critical role in shaping the decades-long campaign that culminated in the historic return of the Bells of Balangiga in 2018. As an academic and prolific writer, he has authored and edited numerous books, journal issues, and community heritage profiles that have helped preserve the cultural identity of the Leyte-Samar region. His groundbreaking work on ancient Visayan scripts, particularly his decipherment of Baybayin inscriptions, and his decades-long stewardship as Issue Editor of The Journal of History, have solidified his standing as a leading cultural historian. These enduring contributions make him richly deserving of the Outstanding Sillimanian Award in the field of Cultural History.
Despite his scholarly stature, Dr. Borrinaga lives a life marked by simplicity, humility, and deep moral conviction. He has consistently grounded his work and relationships in Christian values of truth, justice, and compassion. He is known among peers and community members as a quiet but effective mediator and mentor, someone who listens more than he speaks and uplifts others without seeking the spotlight. At home, he is a devoted husband and father who prioritizes family through shared sacrifices and enduring love. In both personal and professional spheres, he remains true to the ideals of service and integrity instilled in him during his Silliman years.
Dr. Rose Mila A. Cipres-Jaucian
Outstanding Sillimanian in the field of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
A native of Dumaguete City, Dr. Rose Mila Cipres-Jaucian graduated from Silliman University High School in 1961 and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Pre-Medicine in 1965. Inspired by mentors like Prof. Dioscoro Rabor, she pursued further studies at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, graduating with the Class of 1970.
Dr. Cipres-Jaucian’s career in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine spans over four decades, with a remarkable record of saving and improving the lives of countless newborns. After completing her pediatric residency in Wilmington, Delaware, and her neonatology fellowship in Phoenix, Arizona, she dedicated herself to caring for critically ill infants in Level III and IV Neonatal Intensive Care Units across the United States. Her expertise, combined with unwavering compassion, has earned her the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of families, many calling her “Doctor Mom” for her relentless dedication. Her legacy includes not just clinical excellence but also mentoring young neonatologists, conducting medical missions in Negros Oriental, and contributing to initiatives that improve neonatal care standards worldwide.
A woman of deep faith, Dr. Cipres-Jaucian credits her life’s work to divine guidance, often feeling God’s hand in moments of critical decision-making. Together with her husband, Joseph Jaucian, she raised four accomplished daughters while maintaining strong ties to her Filipino roots and Christian values. Active in her parish and generous in community service, she continues to live out the Silliman spirit of faith, service, and excellence.
Dr. Anabelle A. Cunanan-Locsin
Nursing Professional Development (Gerontology, Geriatric Nursing, and Infection Prevention & Control)
Dr. Anabelle Alviola Cunanan-Locsin hails from Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. A true-blooded Sillimanian, her academic journey at Silliman University began in elementary school (Batch 1962) and continued through high school (Batch 1966), college (Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 1971), and graduate school, where she earned both her Master of Arts in Nursing major in Educational Administration (1977) and Doctor of Education major in Educational Administration (1986). It was at Silliman where she first cultivated a deep sense of purpose and professional commitment. Her formative years at the university laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong pursuit of excellence in nursing, education, and leadership.
Dr. Cunanan-Locsin has made far-reaching contributions to nursing professional development. In the U.S., she has assisted numerous Skilled Nursing Facilities in developing comprehensive educational programs and ensuring compliance with clinical competency standards. She has worked closely with the U.S. Department of Health and various state healthcare associations to implement required training programs that certify staff as Infection Preventionists. As an educator, she helped healthcare institutions comply with Federal, State, and OSHA requirements by designing facility education plans, annual training calendars, and onboarding programs for new employees.
Her expertise has also been pivotal in supporting healthcare facilities in achieving Joint Commission accreditation, ensuring staff are clinically competent and prepared to deliver high-quality care. A sought-after speaker, she has delivered presentations at regional, state, national, and international conferences, helping influence healthcare systems and elevate standards of care. Her passion for education also extends into the community, where she has created patient education programs aimed at improving health literacy and empowering individuals.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Cunanan-Locsin is known for her grounded Christian faith and unwavering personal integrity. She views nursing not merely as a profession, but as a ministry, which is infused with compassion, service, and a commitment to healing.
Dr. Janamitra Devan
Outstanding Sillimanian in the field of International Development Economics
Dr. Janamitra “Dev” Devan, a native of Singapore, began his transformative academic journey at Silliman University during the school year 1977–1978. Having struggled through the rigid education system in Singapore, it was at Silliman where Dev first encountered a learning environment that valued open dialogue, critical thinking, and deep human connection. Encouraged by inspiring teachers such as National Artist Edith Tiempo and other Silliman greats, he excelled for the first time academically, earning near-straight A’s and rediscovering his love for learning. That single year at Silliman ignited his academic rise, which later took him to Indiana University, where he graduated with honors in Quantitative Business Analysis, and went on to earn an MBA and a PhD in Business Economics and International Business.
Dr. Devan has built a distinguished global career in international development economics, making significant contributions to poverty alleviation, financial inclusion, and economic transformation. As Vice President of the World Bank Group, he led key reforms and innovations during the aftermath of the 2008 global financial crisis and launched globally impactful tools such as the Ease of Doing Business and Women, Business, and the Law reports. He played a pivotal role in global economic policymaking through leadership in G20 initiatives, multilateral forums, and think tanks, and most recently served as Chief Strategy Officer of NEOM, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious $1 trillion smart city project. His lifelong work in both public and private sectors reflects a commitment to economic development that empowers nations and uplifts lives, truly embodying the ideals of the Outstanding Sillimanian Award in International Development Economics.
Rooted in a rich spiritual background, Dr. Devan was raised by devout Hindu parents and educated in a Methodist school, where he first encountered the Christian faith. His spiritual journey has been one of openness and depth; one that values compassion, wisdom, and integrity above all. His marriage to Filipina Sabrina Co deepened his connection with her Catholic faith and to the Philippines. Together, they imparted the strength of a values-based upbringing for their three children. Today, he continues to engage in interfaith reflection and philanthropy, notably establishing the President Devan Nair and Dhanam Nair Scholarship Fund at Silliman University in honor of his parents and the life-changing education he received. Dr. Devan’s life exemplifies a deep sense of gratitude, global service, and unwavering faith in the transformative power of values-driven leadership.
Dr. Joel A. Gamo
Outstanding Sillimanian in the field of Medical Education
Dr. Joel A. Gamo was born in Dumaguete City and began his educational journey at Silliman University. He completed his Kindergarten in 1967, graduated valedictorian from the Elementary Department in 1973, and again as valedictorian from the High School Department in 1977. At Silliman, he thrived not only academically but also in music, sports, and service, joining the Rondalla, Boy Scouts, and school athletic teams. He pursued his pre-medical studies at the University of the Philippines–Diliman, earning a Bachelor of Science in Zoology, cum laude. He then completed his Doctor of Medicine at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine in 1985.
Dr. Gamo’s professional journey reflects an extraordinary dedication to both medical education and community service. After completing his residency in Rehabilitation Medicine at the Philippine General Hospital, he became the founding dean of the College of Physical Therapy at Davao Doctors College, where he designed the curriculum, developed course syllabi, and recruited faculty. At the same time, he served as a practicing physiatrist in four major hospitals in Davao City. His leadership extended beyond the academic sphere: he chaired the first-ever Philippine Medical Association Annual Convention held outside Metro Manila in 1998, bringing together over a thousand physicians from across the country. His career later took him to the United States, where he rose to the rank of Full Professor at West Coast University, teaching courses in Anatomy, Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Epidemiology. Additionally, he has held an Assistant Professorship at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine, one of the world’s leading institutions, where he is the only Filipino faculty member teaching cadaver dissection. A passionate educator and innovator, he integrates technology like augmented reality in teaching anatomy and has produced over a hundred educational videos. He is also a published author and a sought-after speaker on health education.
A man of deep faith and compassion, Dr. Gamo’s Christian formation began at Silliman and continued throughout his life. He has been actively involved in church and civic projects, always anchoring his work in a sense of purpose and service. After the heartbreaking loss of his youngest son Miguel to depression, he and his wife Ethel established the Miguel Gamo Mental Health Advocacy Foundation, which offers mental health education, support programs like Blue Therapy and Urban Gardening, and suicide prevention initiatives.
Carla P. Gomez
Outstanding Sillimanian in the field of Community Journalism
Carla P. Gomez hails from Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. A proud Sillimanian, she graduated from Silliman University High School in 1978 and completed her Bachelor of Mass Communication degree in 1982. During her years in Silliman, she was immersed in a values-based education that shaped her lifelong commitment to ethical journalism and public service. She later pursued graduate studies in journalism at the University of Arizona in the United States, further sharpening her skills and widening her global perspective.
A journalist whose career in community journalism spans more than four decades, Gomez has made remarkable contributions to Philippine media. She served the Visayan Daily Star for over thirty years, rising from reporter to editor, and played a key role in sustaining the newspaper during financially difficult times. As editor of Digicast Negros, she continues to write stories that give voice to the marginalized—from orphans and the elderly to victims of injustice and poverty. Her investigative and human-interest stories have appeared in major national dailies and international news agencies. She has co-authored and contributed to significant publications, including Dr. Ramon B. Gustilo: Heart of the East, Tempo of the West and Negosyo: Inspiring Stories of Women Entrepreneurs. For her dedication to truth-telling and nation-building, she is recognized as a deserving recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Sillimanian Award in Community Journalism.
Gomez’s life is a reflection of her Christian values: honesty, compassion, and service. Deeply rooted in faith, she has remained steadfast in advocating for the voiceless, particularly children, women, and the poor. Her work is not just a profession but a ministry grounded in the conviction that journalism must uplift lives and bring about justice. Described by mentors and peers alike as ethical, courageous, and mission-driven, she embodies the Silliman motto: Via, Veritas, Vita—the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Dr. Eva Rose Washburn-Repollo
Outstanding Sillimanian in the field of Education, Culture, and the Arts
Dr. Eva Rose B. Washburn-Repollo was born and raised in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental. She completed her secondary education at Silliman University High School in 1980 and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Theater Arts in 1984 and Master of Arts in English in 1987 from Silliman University. She later pursued advanced degrees abroad, obtaining a Master of Science in Reading from Southern Connecticut State University and a Ph.D. in Education, Curriculum and Pedagogy from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.
Dr. Washburn-Repollo is an acclaimed educator, cultural advocate, and artist whose work bridges education, culture, and the arts. As a professor at Chaminade University of Honolulu, she has mentored countless students and produced award-winning documentaries, publications, bilingual children’s books, and cultural programs that promote Filipino and Pacific heritage. Her efforts include founding the Cebuano Language and Culture Program in the United States, producing multicultural media projects, and spearheading literacy and cultural education initiatives for underserved communities. These exceptional achievements make her richly deserving of the Outstanding Sillimanian Award in the field of Education, Culture, and the Arts.
Grounded in her Christian faith and a strong commitment to community, Dr. Washburn-Repollo lives a life of service and compassion. She is known for her generosity and integrity, qualities expressed through her leadership roles in community organizations, her volunteer work with survivors of domestic violence, and her dedication to free literacy programs for children in Negros Oriental. A devoted wife and active member of her church and community in Hawai‘i, she continues to embody the Silliman spirit in her personal and professional life.
Atty. Riza Faith C. Ybañez
Outstanding Sillimanian in the field of Global Business Ethics
Atty. Riza Faith Catacutan Ybañez hails from Dumaguete City, where she spent her formative years and completed her education at Silliman University—from Early Childhood (1974), Elementary (1980), High School (1984) to college. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Silliman in 1993, and later pursued her Juris Doctor at the University of the Philippines College of Law, graduating with honors in 1999. Deeply influenced by her Silliman upbringing and her mother, Prof. Norma Ybañez—a pioneer in gender studies—she developed a strong foundation in advocacy and public service.
A trailblazer in the field of global business ethics, Atty. Ybañez has earned distinction through her pioneering work in corporate integrity and regulatory compliance, particularly in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry. Currently Country Head for Ethics, Risk, and Compliance at Novartis India, she has led regional and global teams in upholding ethical standards in business operations across Asia, Africa, and the United States. Her leadership in drafting and implementing ethical codes of conduct, including contributing to the DOH Administrative Order on pharmaceutical marketing, has been internationally recognized, notably through the 2015 APEC Business Ethics Lighthouse Award. Her work exemplifies the responsible practice of law and business anchored in public welfare.
Throughout her journey, Atty. Ybañez has remained steadfast in her Christian faith, a commitment nurtured by years of involvement in the Silliman Church. As a youth, she served as editor-in-chief of the Parish News and joined church camps and ministries, experiences that shaped her spiritual resilience and ethical compass. She continues to support SU’s Center for Gender Studies and Development and the Silliman Church Heritage Project, living out her belief that faith in action is key to personal and social transformation. Her life is a testimony to the Silliman spirit: faithful, ethical, and purpose-driven.
OSA ceremony
The awarding ceremony will be at 9:30 a.m., at the Claire Isabel McGill Luce Auditorium. For inquiries, contact the Alumni and External Affairs Office at [email protected] or call 420 1901 local 290.
