THE University of Luzon (UL) conferred a Doctor of Humanities in Public Administration on Dagupan City Vice Mayor Belen Fernandez in recognition of her accomplishments in the fields of business and public service.

The degree was conferred during the university’s 95th Commencement Exercises held at the CSI Stadia with Fernandez as guest of honor and speaker.

Fernandez is an alumnus of UL, formerly Luzon Colleges, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce.

She was teary-eyed when she received the distinction from UL President Mac Arthur Samson; Atty. Liberato Reyna Jr., chairman of the board; Councilor Luis Samson Jr., executive vice president; and other members of the Board of Trustees.

In accepting the degree, Fernandez thanked UL for helping mold her into what she is now.

UL honored Fernandez for her success in the area of business and industry having founded and led the CSI Group of Companies that has grown into one of the biggest chains of shopping malls and retail stores in Northern Luzon.

Fernandez said she is sharing the honor with her family, especially her late father Jimmy Fernandez who started the family’s grocery in Dagupan City 50 years ago and served as her role model and inspiration in setting up the CSI Group 25 years ago.

Fernandez said her late father taught her to value every centavo that she earns, and impressed upon her that “in business, every centavo counts”.

She said she applies the same principle in life as well as in public service, which means not wasting any centavo of the taxes paid by the people.

UL officials said that as a businesswoman, Fernandez shepherded many Dagupenos and other Pangasinenses to become more productive by opening windows of opportunities, a testament to her belief that in helping, others help themselves, which is above and beyond politics.

UL also recognized Fernandez for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy for children’s rights and welfare.

Back to Homepage

Share your Comments or Reactions

comments

Powered by Facebook Comments