Former UP President Francisco 'Dodong' Nemenzo passes away at 89
Former University of the Philippines (UP) president Francisco "Dodong" Nemenzo has passed away. He was 89.
His family announced his passing on Thursday, Dec. 19, saying he "lived a life rich in thought, action, and impact. He was 89 years old."
"Dodong Nemenzo's life was a testament to the power of ideals and conviction. His contributions to academia and society will be remembered and celebrated by many," they added.
Nemenzo's family also said that a memorial service will be held at a date and venue to be announced later.
There is no word yet on what is the cause Nemenzo's death.
A political scientist, educator, and activist
Renowned for his bold opinions on Philippine culture, politics, and foreign events, Nemenzo was a Marxist figure in the Philippine academe and political scientist.
He made an impression on the UP throughout his tenure as its 18th president. He oversaw several programs that brought the institution up to date and encouraged students to think critically and do their best work, including the Revitalized General Education Program, which allowed students to choose general education courses that would be the foundation of their college education.
Throughout his service, Nemenzo advocated that a university like UP must be an "agent of personal and social transformation, rather than a validator of inherited status and wealth or the perpetrator of outmoded social hierarchies and practices."
He had also previously served as chancellor of UP Visayas, UP Faculty Regent, and dean of the College of Arts & Sciences of UP Diliman.
Moreover, Nemenzo is known to be a "leading leftist intellectual," according to his family. As he practiced his ideals, he was "incarcerated for his actions during the martial law regime of Ferdinand E. Marcos."
"He advocated unwaveringly for social justice and reform, and played leadership roles in political organizations and social movements," his family noted.
Nemenzo, who was born in Cebu City on February 9, 1935, is the son of Francisco Nemenzo Sr., the father of Philippine coral taxonomy.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Ana Maria "Princess" Nemenzo, their three children, and their spouses.
