Enverga University marks 100th birth anniversary of Dean Emeritus Villariba

Enverga University commemorated former Trustee and Dean Emeritus Dr. Cesar Villariba’s 100th birthday on Nov. 6.

The Honor Society of the Lambda Kappa Phi (HSLKP) organized the unveiling of his bust at the AEC Quadrangle. The Phians together with University officials led by President Naila Leveriza, Senior Vice President Benilda Villenas, Vice Presidents Dario Opistan and Celso Jaballa, Treasurer Carlito Rodriguez, former Senior Finance Officer Erlinda Micor and the fraternity’s first Princess Felicitas Del Fierro paid tribute to the Fraternal Archon.

Representing the Villariba family were his children Cesar, Jr., Girlie, and husband Edicio de la Torre, Liza, Ceres, Cesarito, Heide, Carmina, Carlos, Christopher and Paul.  

Phian alumni attended the unveiling coordinated by Vladimir Nieto and initiated by the fraternity’s Board of Directors. Local artist Amiel Pabello sculpted the bust and epitaph with Dr. Villariba’s signature.

The Villariba family, in collaboration with the Enverga University community, organized the birthday celebration in Casa Segunda that began with a mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Maaño, University chaplain, and Rev. Fr. Ramil Esplana, chief administrator of the Mt. Carmel Diocesan Hospital. A photo exhibit displaying the early life, milestones, and later years of Dr. Villariba greeted guests at the lobby of Casa Segunda curated by his son Carlos.

The MSEUF Concert Singers serenaded the guests at luncheon, rendering a rendition of Dr. Iba's favorite song, "The Impossible Dream." The melody rang with Dr. Villariba’s relentless pursuit of his dream to reach the unreachable star.

The commemorative event also featured a captivating storytelling session, during which Dr. Villariba’s family and colleagues shared anecdotes and treasured memories. Their heartfelt narratives served as a powerful testament to the enduring impact that Dr. Villariba had on the lives of those around him, reaffirming the profound influence he wielded within his family and the broader community.

A man who wore many hats

Among the 13  children of Dr. Villariba, Dr. Ceres Villariba-Romano, his seventh child holds a unique position as a bridge and ambassador between generations. As the middle child, she shared heartfelt recollections of her father, painting a vivid picture of a man who wore many hats.

He was not just a father but a husband, and to his beloved wife, Flotie, he was the epitome of romance and humor. In the role of a father, he was characterized by his calm, gentle, and mild-mannered nature. His nurturing spirit was in contrast to his wife's outspoken personality. He was known for his sweet gestures, like bringing pasalubong when returning home from work, and even initiating playful contests among his children to fetch his slippers. As they grew older, it became a loving habit for them to bring him his slippers without expecting any prizes.

What set Dr. Villariba apart was his unwavering support for his children's individual choices in education and careers. He encouraged them to explore their passions and make the most of their God-given talents, continuously enhancing their skills. His fatherly role extended beyond his biological children. He opened his heart and home to many underprivileged relatives and friends, providing them with a safe haven. Even as his children grew into adulthood and started their own families, he remained a reliable source of support, always ready to assist in their times of need. He truly was a father and grandfather for all seasons.

In 1997, Dr.Villariba and his wife Flotie were recognized with the Huwarang Pamilyang Pilipino Award, a testament to their fruitful life together and their dedication to serving God, their country, and their fellow human beings. To carry forward the legacy of their parents, Dr. Ceres and her siblings have established the Cesar A. Villariba Sr. Foundation, with Atty. Cesarito Villariba at the helm. The foundation's mission and vision are firmly aligned with their parents' mantra – to serve God, their country, and humanity. 

A teacher’s teacher

Dr. Villariba’s most cherished legacy was his contribution to education during his 60 years as a teacher from 1948 to 2008 when he retired as Dean Emeritus of the graduate school of the University. 

Etched in MSEUF’s history, Dr. Villariba was a mentor who influenced the lives of countless individuals. Among those fortunate enough to have been influenced by his wisdom and guidance is Dr. Amelita Balagtas, the former Dean of Studies and School Administrator of MSEUF-Candelaria.

Dr. Amy, during her college years, had the privilege of serving as a student assistant to Dr. Villariba. She recalled an unforgettable story of how Dr. Villariba showed kindness to her by giving her a chicken burger while she was running an errand for him. Working with him was a never-ending learning experience. She remained unwaveringly loyal to the Villariba family where she has been treated like one of his children — often jesting that she was a "pekeng Villariba".

In her reminiscences, she vividly recalls the profound impact that he had on her life. Dr. Villariba was more than just a teacher; he was a "teacher's teacher," a mentor figure who recognized and nurtured her potential. His belief in Dr. Amy's capabilities served as a catalyst for her growth, motivating her to strive for excellence in her academic and professional journey. His guidance and unwavering support left an indelible mark on her, inspiring her to become the accomplished educator and administrator she is today.

His legacy of mentorship continues to thrive in the stories of individuals like Dr. Amy, serving as a testament to his commitment to excellence and the development of those around him. His influence lives on through the achievements of his mentees, who, in turn, carry forward his teachings and values, embodying the vision of the University.

A coconut farmer

Prior to becoming an educator, he was rooted in the farming world, having earned his degree in Agriculture from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) in 1948.

 Edicio Dela Torre, a former Philippine Coconut Authority director and husband of his daughter, Girlie, shared the accomplishments of his father-in-law  as an agriculturist and the first Administrator/Chair of the Philippine Coconut Authority in 1971 until 1975.

As an agriculturist, he developed the coconut industry to a level where Philippines was once among the top trader of raw coconut and products in the world and many coconut farmers could earn and send their children to school.

In one of the insights of Dr. Villariba on the future of the coconut industry, he was quoted saying, “In spite of a proposal to discourage copra exportation in favor of coconut oil, the prevailing sentiment is one of optimism with continued growth and development for the industry and that research will play an important role in the industry’s development and progress.”

On his honor

Dr. Villariba's legacy endures, immortalized by the multitude of roles he inhabited throughout his life — a distinguished public servant, a devoted lay and civic leader, a seasoned war veteran, a passionate historian, an accomplished agriculturist, and an inspiring educator. 

Through the retelling of his remarkable journey, we ensure that Dr. Villariba’s spirit lives on, his extraordinary narrative serving as a guiding light for future generations. As we weave his tales into the fabric of our collective memory, we honor the indelible mark he left in the world and the profound impact of his contributions— we tell his story.