From Dreams to Success Stories at STI Alumni Awards Night

By: Graceline Marcelo , June 9, 2025

On a memorable evening at Okada Manila in Parañaque City, STI College celebrated something truly special — the extraordinary journeys of 12 graduates who have transformed their dreams into reality. The 2025 STI Distinguished Alumni Awards (STIDAA) ceremony on May 30, 2025, wasn't just another awards night; it was a celebration of potential and perseverance. 

The STI Alumni Association (STIAA) carefully selected these remarkable individuals across STI's 63 schools nationwide, each carrying a unique story of triumph, challenge, and growth. As guests filled the elegant venue, there was a palpable sense of pride and inspiration in the air. 

The diverse group of honorees spans multiple industries; each having made significant contributions to their respective fields while exemplifying the institution's commitment to producing globally competitive professionals. Their collective achievements reflect the breadth and quality of STI's educational impact across various sectors. 

"These individuals embody the STI Way — service-oriented, trustworthy, and innovative — and serve as shining examples of what it means to be a true STI graduate," said STI Alumni Association Trustee Sherwin Macalintal during the ceremony. 

The recognition serves a dual purpose beyond honoring individual achievements. These success stories provide concrete examples for current students, showing that with dedication and the foundational education STI provides, significant professional accomplishments are achievable. 

Tech Titans 

They are the digital pioneers, using the power of technology to drive progress and solve complex challenges. They create game-changing apps, secure patents, and lead digital efforts that transform industries and communities worldwide. 

Get to know the brilliant minds who are shaping our digital landscape, making technology efficient, transformative, and more accessible for a better tomorrow. 

 

Six years after graduation, Pascua has become a crucial figure in the Philippines' disaster preparedness efforts. He's developed national-level systems like SATREX (Satellite Rainfall Extremes Monitor) and CliMap (Climate Information Map), both widely used for climate and weather monitoring. 

His work has garnered significant recognition, including the 2022 GAWAD PAGASA Innovation Outstanding Award (1^st runner-up) for CliMap, the 2023 GAWAD PAGASA Innovation Outstanding Award (2^nd place) for SATREX, and 1^st Place in the 2024 NRCP Poster Exhibit and Competition for "CliMap v2.0." 

These systems are vital technological advancements, offering interactive, color-coded rainfall maps that aid researchers, disaster managers, decision-makers, and the public in assessing flood risks and improving emergency planning. Pascua's dedication to applying his technical skills for public service has greatly enhanced national resilience and safety. 

 

Kirk Hilario has built an impressive career focused on innovation, particularly in maritime safety. He and his team hold twoDepartment of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development(DOST PCIEERD)-funded patents for the SEAWAVeS Mobile Application and SEAWAVeS Monitoring System—both components of a comprehensive maritime safety solution that uses smartphone sensors on boats tomonitor wave conditions and alert nearby vessels and authorities when dangers are detected. 

The SEAWAVeS Technology Project has earned significant acclaim. It was named the Most Market-Worthy Technology at the 2022 IDLAB Awards. As a co-author, Hilario was part of an Aklan State University (ASU) group, composed of professors and professionals, that won the Best Paper award in 2023 at the International Conference on Marine Sustainable Development and Innovation (MSDI). 

Continuing its success, the SEAWAVeS project, now led by Hilario as CEO, secured 3^rd place at the Western Visayas Innovative Startup Fest in 2024. These achievements highlight Hilario's proven ability to create practical solutions for real-world maritime safety challenges. 

 

Sanchez’s career progression tells the story of steady professional growth and international success. Starting as a teacher at STI College Novaliches, he inspired young minds and cultivated a passion for mentorship. Moving to Brunei, he steadily advanced through roles like Programmer Analyst and Technical Manager, showcasing exceptional problem-solving and adaptability. 

His remarkable dedication culminated in his current leadership role as Director, overseeing key projects and teams and ensuring organizational success in acompetitive field. Roman's inspiring life story, marked by resilience and continuous self-improvement, exemplifies how a strong will can transform challenges into stepping stones for greater achievements. 

 

As a Magna Cum Laude graduate, De Leon has translated academic excellence into professional success as an IT Project Manager in Singapore.  

"STI didn’t just help me achieve my dreams, it shaped the kind of person I wanted to be." De Leon said. 

Beyond his corporate achievements, he maintains an active lifestyle, competing internationally in triathlons and dragon boat racing. He also gives back as a resource speaker and by actively participating in groups like Social Climbers Singapore and United Paddlers Singapore. 

His story proves that with hard work and a good start, you can excel professionally, pursue your passions, and still contribute to your community. 

 

Creative Catalysts 

They are artists, designers, and culinary innovators who use their craft to teach us something new, make us feel connected, and help us rediscover our own culture. 

From illustrations and visual effects to cultural heritage art and innovative culinary experiences that blend tradition with modern techniques and flavors, these creators push boundaries in every medium they touch.  

Meet our Creative Catalysts — the dreamers and doers who are quietly revolutionizing everything as they understand that art has the power to transform how we see the world. 

 

Lachica utilizes his artistic prowess as a Web Designer, Graphic Artist, and Illustrator to make a significant impact. Now a Creative Lead for Ideation and Content Studio at Henkel, a multinational company, he skillfully integrates AI and digital platforms—tools he first encountered and honed during his college years. 

Beyond his corporate success, he extends his creative influence on the community, serving as the sole force behind the illustrations, storyboards, visuals, and graphics for educational books like "Si Barok at ang Sunog," "Kinalakihang Larong Pambata sa Aklan - Hampang," "Titiris ni Tiya," and "Mushon! Magbasa eon Kita." This exemplifies how graduates can effectively leverage their skills to contribute to educational initiatives that benefit communities. 

 

From a well-loved and respected Senior High School (SHS) Teacher from STI College Lucena, Menes is now a Commis 3 Chef at a prestigious international hotel and restaurant in Dubai. Her journey wasn't easy, but her determination never wavered. 

In a video, she shared her powerful advice: "Always push yourself until you get what you desire," 

"Challenges will come," she wisely noted, "but always think that this will help you become stronger and more determined to achieve your dreams." 

She continues to passionately refine her craft, consistently honing her culinary skills by attending master classes in cooking. This commitment to continuous learning and excellence is what truly defines her success, making her an inspiring example for anyone aspiring to turn a passion into a global profession. 
 

Maningat has made his mark in the Philippine entertainment industry through visual effects work. He earned the Best in Visual Effects award at the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2020 for "Magikland” and "Kubot: The Aswang Chronicles 2" in 2014. He also contributed to other films, including "Boy Golden: Shoot to Kill" (2013) and "Basement" (2014).  

His work as a 3D Animator and Game Developer highlights how IT graduates can build impactful careers within the expanding digital entertainment sector. 

 

Despite holding a Bachelor’s degree in IT and an MBA, her journey into the arts was driven by a desire to create artworks that promote Filipino heritage and support local artists. This passion has garnered significant international recognition, including an invitation to represent the Philippines as a contemporary artist at 1159 Creative Space's 'Quadrado: The Art in Square' at the Artist 360 Contemporary Art Fair in Madrid, Spain. 
 
"This school didn’t just teach me knowledge; it built in me resilience, drive, and the quiet kind of ambition, the courage to keep going," she emphasized in her speech. 
 
Today, she continues to flourish as a visual artist, actively participating in local and international exhibitions, leveraging lessons learned to build a sustainable and impactful online presence for her passion. 

 

Impact Makers 

These dedicated individuals are driving significant social change. With a deep commitment to service, they work in healthcare, education, and community development. They address critical societal needs, inspire others, and help build a fairer, more sustainable world for everyone. 

Learn about our Impact Makers and the significant contributions they are making to uplift lives and inspire positive transformation. 

 

Aquino began his professional journey as a volunteer during his nursing studies, progressing to a community health nurse role in Bukidnon. His time as an Admissions Officer at STI further developed his communication skills and confidence. 

This foundation prepared him for significant work in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), where he specialized in community-based rehabilitation for marginalized substance users. His expertise gained international recognition, leading him to become a Global Master Trainer for the Colombo Plan. In this capacity, he trained addiction professionals across Asia and the Pacific, disseminating best practices and strengthening human capital in drug demand reduction. He also served as a national consultant for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), contributing to national strategies and capacity-building efforts in addressing drug use disorders and related issues. 

 

Arquiza, a differently abled educator, has built a remarkable teaching career marked by excellence and strong leadership. She serves as Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) Department Coordinator and Gulayan sa Paaralan Program Coordinator, demonstrating her exceptional capabilities in educational administration. 

Her outstanding contributions to education have earned her recognition as the 2023 Most Outstanding Teacher and recipient of the 2023 Dangal ng Taong May Kapansanan – Public Sector Category award. Her achievements exemplify how determination, talent, and quality education empower graduates to excel and make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields. 

 

A Cum Laude graduate and 2-time awardee, Gamboa embodies how STI College's early opportunities and forward-thinking education shaped her into a remarkable leader. Her dual recognition stands as a testament to how she doesn't rest on her laurels and keep moving up. As a student assistant, she gained crucial frontline experience, mastering communication and professionalism.  

The practical lessons in database management, project management, and other essential skills became the bedrock of her career, tools she actively utilizes in her work even now. Her STI experience was pivotal in building the solid foundation upon which her successful career was built. 

 

Villena epitomizes the power of persistence in achieving one's goals."Pursuing college once felt impossible due to financial constraints," he shares, yet STI's scholarship gave him a life-changing chance. 

“STI equipped me with the technical foundation that would later become essential in the maritime sector,” preparing him for a global platform long before he stepped onto it. 

His unwavering dedication and perseverance have since propelled him to success; he is now a key part of the management team overseeing elite maritime operations in the Middle East, including the prestigious superyachts of the Abu Dhabi Royal Family.  

Reflecting on his journey, he stated, "I’m proud to say that STI became the cornerstone of my professional journey abroad." 

 

The 2025 STI Distinguished Alumni Awards celebrated individual achievements while underscoring the collective impact of STI graduates worldwide. Their journeys, marked by innovation, creativity, and unwavering service, stand as powerful testaments to the comprehensive education and values instilled by STI College. 

The STI community eagerly looks forward to their continued successes and the ways they will guide and uplift the STIers who follow in their footsteps.