The University of the Philippines Alumni Engineers, Inc. (UPAE) held its 2025 Induction Ceremony at the Executive Board Room of Quezon Hall, marking a new chapter of leadership dedicated to advancing engineering excellence, industry collaboration, and alumni engagement.

The current 2025 Board of Trustees include:
President, Engr. Manfred M. Guangko (BSMetE 1988)
Vice President for Internal Affairs, Engr. Victor Emmanuel B. Ahorro (BSCE 1984)
Vice President for External Affairs, Engr. Roberto B. Nazareno (BSME 1983)
Secretary, Engr. Leon Silvano R. Ramos (BSCE 1990)
Treasurer, Engr. Winston A. Sumalia (BSCoE 2007)
Engr. Jose Carlos L. Alzona (BSIE 2002)
Engr. Ernest Hermes R. Bolivar (BSME 1991)
Engr. Adrian James Z. De Guzman (BSMetE 2011)
Engr. Michael Oliver M. De Guzman (BSCE 1995)
Engr. Rodolfo T. Faustino III (BSME 1995)
Engr. Jill Z. Manapat (BSMatE 2011)
Engr. Princess Ann P. Marcos (BSIE 2019)
Engr. Arnel M. Molina (BSEM 1983)
Engr. Michael G. Salazar (BSGE 2000)
Engr. Roland M. Torres (BSMetE 1992)
Executive Director, Dr. Eric Augustus J. Tingatinga (BSGE 1997)

In a momentous event graced by distinguished guests, the newly elected UPAE Board of Trustees and Officers took their oath of office, signifying a renewed commitment to serving the engineering community. Leading the new roster is Engr. Manfred M. Guangko, who officially assumed his role as UPAE President, succeeding Engr. Aurelio L. Gomez.

A New Leadership with a Strong Vision

In his acceptance speech, Engr. Guangko emphasized the role of engineers in shaping national progress. “We are not just engineers—we are leaders, innovators, and nation-builders. It is our duty to ensure that engineering education remains world-class and that our alumni remain engaged in uplifting the country’s technological landscape.”

He also highlighted UPAE’s efforts to support engineering students and strengthen industry-academe partnerships. “We must bridge the gap between academic excellence and real-world application. By fostering stronger connections with our industries, we can empower the next generation of UP engineers.”

Outgoing President Engr. Aurelio L. Gomez reflected on the achievements of the past year, including the successful implementation of UPAE’s Study Now, Pay Later program in partnership with donors, UPERDFI, and the UP administration. “Our biggest challenge was ensuring that financial support reaches students who need it most. I am proud to say that after many discussions and collaborations, we are now on the path to institutionalizing this initiative,” said Gomez.

UP President Calls for More Engineers

Delivering a powerful keynote, UP President Atty. Angelo A. Jimenez underscored the critical need for more engineers in the Philippines to stay competitive in the global economy.

“The Philippines only has 174 engineers and researchers per million people. Compare that to Vietnam’s 756, Indonesia’s 400, and Singapore’s 7,000. If we want to compete, we must produce more engineers—and not just more, but highly skilled and globally competitive ones,” President Jimenez stated.

He also challenged the UP engineering alumni to actively support research, startups, and technological innovation, urging them to contribute not just financially but through mentorship and industry collaboration. “It is no longer enough to be the top engineering school in the country. We must compete with the world’s best. Our goal should be to make UP a full-fledged research university and a hub for technology-driven entrepreneurship.”

A Unified Effort for Engineering Education

Dean Dr. Maria Antonia N. Tanchuling of the UP College of Engineering echoed the call for stronger alumni engagement, particularly in the college’s expansion plans and initiatives for engineering education. She revealed that UP is working on establishing a School of Engineering in UP Mindanao.

“We are building collaborations with state universities across the country. Our vision is to help these institutions develop their own engineering programs, ensuring that quality engineering education is accessible nationwide,” said Dean Tanchuling.

She also thanked the UPAE for its continuous support of student development, particularly in funding international engineering competitions and professional conferences.

Moving Forward

As UPAE embarks on this new term, Vice President for Internal Affairs Engr. Victor Emmanuel B. Ahorro closed the program with a message of unity and purpose. “Let us uphold the values of honor, excellence, and service. Together, we can make a meaningful impact—not only in our engineering fields but also in shaping the future of our country.”

The event concluded with a symbolic turnover of leadership, followed by a photo session and networking over refreshments. With a new set of leaders at the helm, UPAE remains steadfast in its mission to uplift engineering education, support its alumni network, and drive technological progress for the nation.