University of San Agustin confers doctorate degree to Ilonggo philanthropist
By Tara Yap
ILOILO CITY – The first university in Western Visayas has conferred a doctorate degree to an Ilonggo philanthropist and entrepreneur.
The University of San Agustin (USA) bestowed an honorary Doctorate in Humanities to Eugenio Michael “Mike” O. Plana as part of its graduation ceremony Saturday, July 9.
Plana was honored for “significantly contributing to the business, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment toward nation-building.”
USA President Fr. Frederick Comendador, Vice President for Academic Affairs Prof. Regina Aileen May Vergara, and USA Chairman of the Board of Trustees Fr. Andres Rivera Jr. conferred Plana’s honorary degree.
Plana is a self-made business magnate with diversified businesses, including manufacturing of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, as well as agri-aqua farming industries.
Plana obtained his political science degree from USA and embodies the Augustinian values of “unitas, caritas, and veritas” (unity, love, and truth).
“The betterment of this world does not stop in our mortal achievements, fame, fortune, and high position, but the inclusion of helping others and sharing to others,” Plana told the graduates.
“In whatever profession and ambitions we may have, it is of substance that we must have the humanity of caring and loving others is paramount and supreme,” Plana added.
Plana is the chairman and CEO of the EuroAsia Pharmaceuticals Corp., vice president of European Chemicals Inc., chairman of the board of the Gintong Silangan Merchants Inc., and board of director of the Pilipinas Extract Resources.