Benilde Announces Valuable Additions to Board of Trustees
In a significant development, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde proudly welcomes two distinguished individuals to its impressive Board of Trustees, Dr. Allan Bernardo and Mr. Edwin Bautista. Their impressive credentials and diverse expertise promise a balance of driving innovation and fostering well-being as we progress towards the institution’s vision.
Dr. Allan Bernardo, a Distinguished University Professor of Psychology at De La Salle University, brings a wealth of experience to the board. With a focus on lay theories, intergroup relations, and social psychology, he served for more than 16 years as a College Professor at De La Salle University. Dr. Bernardo’s leadership roles include Vice President for Academics and Research, and Dean of the College of Education at DLSU, and President of the Psychological Association of the Philippines. His recent work on positive psychology in the school context aligns perfectly with the College’s dedication to holistic formation and education. Dr. Bernardo earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of the Philippines and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Yale University.
Mr. Edwin Bautista, the current President and CEO of UnionBank Philippines, is renowned for his leadership in the finance and technology industry. Under his guidance, UnionBank has become a pioneer in digital transformation, securing one of the country’s only six digital bank licenses. With a background in Mechanical Engineering from De La Salle University and an Advanced Management Program from Harvard Business School, Mr. Bautista’s expertise aligns perfectly with the College’s global educational aspirations.
The addition of Dr. Bernardo and Mr. Bautista further enriches the already diverse Board of Trustees, chaired by Mr. Cezar Consing, President and CEO of Ayala Corp. Their histories and wisdom resonate harmoniously with the College’s present endeavors and future aspirations, crafting a tapestry of strength within our leadership ranks. The Board of Trustees also includes three De La Salle Brothers: Benilde President Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC, Br. Jose Mari Jimenez FSC, and Br. Raymundo Suplido FSC. Other members of the board, showcasing a diverse array of perspectives and knowledge, include Ayala Corp. Managing Director Ramon Opulencia as Treasurer, motivational speaker and entrepreneur RJ Ledesma, former Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Alma de Leon, urban develoment champion Charlie Rufino, real estate chief Mariano Martinez, healthcare services mogul Jajo Quintos, tech infrastructure chief Stephen Misa, and PNB and Lucio Tan Group Director Vivienne Tan.
The Benildean Community warmly welcomes Dr. Allan Bernardo and Mr. Edwin Bautista to the Board of Trustees. Their expertise will undoubtedly play a crucial role in steering the College toward continued success. Simultaneously, the College extends its gratitude to outgoing trustees Ms. Maria Ressa and Dr. Lydia Echauz for their invaluable contributions. Maria Ressa, a 2021 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and CEO of Rappler, and Dr. Lydia Echauz, the former president of Far Eastern University, have played pivotal roles in shaping the College’s trajectory. The College offers heartfelt prayers and best wishes to Ms. Ressa and Dr. Echauz as they embark on new endeavors.
The College looks forward to the collective efforts of our esteemed Board of Trustees in advancing our commitment to developing Benildean-Lasallian leaders by integrating holistic and formative educational programs oriented towards excellence, human dignity, and the common good for building a just and humane society.
