In Memoriam

Poet, activist Mila Aguilar dies at 74

October 16, 2023



She ‘worked tirelessly for God and Country for many decades, in the face of marginalization, imprisonment, and even death,’ her son writes

MANILA, Philippines – Poet, essayist, and activist Mila Aguilar died on Friday, October 13 at the age of 74, her son Doy Roque announced on social media on Saturday, October 14.

Aguilar “worked tirelessly for God and Country for many decades, in the face of marginalization, imprisonment, and even death,” Roque wrote. “She met many like-minded people in her journeys. People who helped her stay the path despite the many challenges she, and many like her, have had to face.”



She joined the National Democratic movement in 1971 and went underground for 13 years, writing poetry and essays under the nom de guerre Clarita Roja. Among Aguilar’s positions in the movement were chairperson of the Regional United Front Commission of Mindanao and head of the National United Front Commission of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

An outspoken critic of the Marcos dictatorship, Aguilar was arrested without a warrant in August 1984. Her prison poetry was published in the collection Why Cage Pigeons? by the Free Mila D. Aguilar Committee. She gained her freedom in 1986.

Aguilar is said to have written about 400 poems in English, Filipino, and Ilonggo throughout her career. Her other poetry collections include A Comrade is as Precious as a Rice Seedling and Journey: An Autobiography in Verse.

She taught at the University of the Philippines Diliman, her alma mater, and was also a video documentarist and web designer.

Her inurnment is at 1135 Marilag St., UP Village, Diliman, Quezon City. – Rappler.com

Source: https://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/arts-culture/poet-activist-mila-aguilar-dies-obituary/

Mr. Ulysses B. Alama (1959-2023)

October 11, 2023



It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr. Ulysses B. Alama earlier today, October 10, 2023.

Known to many as Sir Yuls, he served as the President of the All UP Workers Union Iloilo Chapter from July 25, 2022 to September 15, 2022 and September 16, 2022 to June 27, 2023. He started his employment at UP Visayas on March 16, 1982 as Marine Engineman. He eventually transferred to the Security Service Force (SSF) where he remained until his retirement, which took effect on September 1, 2023. In total, he served the university for 41 years.

He is remembered by his colleagues and friends as someone accommodating, friendly, and dedicated.

Rest in peace, Sir Yuls!

Source: University of the Philippines Visayas Facebook

Prof. Nancy B. Florendo (1962-2023)



On behalf of the UP Baguio community, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Prof. Nancy Florendo. Prof. Florendo’s teaching tenure spanned over 36 years, dating back when UPB was still UP College Baguio in 1986. Her admirable dedication to her field and role as a counselor for many students have left a lasting impact on us all.

She will be greatly missed by the academic community.

Source: University of the Philippines Baguio Facebook