Silliman University (SU) will confer the Outstanding Sillimanian Awards (OSA) on four of its alumni who have embodied the University’s motto, Via, Veritas, Vita, in a formal ceremony on August 28, 2024, 10:00 a.m., at the Claire Isabel McGill Luce Auditorium.
DR. GLENDA S. ARQUIZA
Professional Regulation Licensing with Specialization in Curriculum Development for for Nursing Nursing Schools
Dr. Glenda S. Arquiza has had a distinguished career in nursing education. A Silliman University alumna with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (1972), she furthered her education with a Master of Arts in Nursing from Philippine Women’s University and a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from the University of the Philippines-Diliman. As an academic leader, she championed evidence-based nursing and the integration of technology into education. Serving on the Professional Regulatory Board of Nursing, she upheld the integrity of the Nurses Licensure Examination, ensuring its rigor and fairness. She contributed to the development of the Philippine Nursing Practice Standards and aligned the Career Progression and Specialization Program with the Philippine Qualification Framework. As chairperson of the Continuing Professional Development Council for Nursing, she played a key role in enhancing professional development opportunities for nurses, empowering them across various specialties.
GEN. FERNYL G. BUCA, PAF
Military Service and Leadership
Lt. Gen. Fernyl G. Buca, a 1985 graduate of Silliman University High School and a member of the Philippine Military Academy Bigkis Lahi Class of 1990, has distinguished himself in the Philippine Air Force through his leadership and extensive military experience. He pursued advanced education, earning two master’s degrees in Public Management and Defense Studies. Throughout his career, he has held key positions, notably revolutionizing budget and planning processes in the Air Staff Operations and playing a crucial role in digitizing the air Force Inventory management system. As Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, he implemented the SMART Logistics approach, enhancing procurement for AFP’s modernization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he led the distribution of vaccines nationwide. Currently, as a three-star officer, he commands the Northern Luzon Command, focusing on protecting the Philippines’ sovereignty amidst regional challenges.
GLORIA A. DE GUZMAN
Obstetrics and Gynecology *(Women’s Health Care, Community, and Social Services)
Dr. Gloria A. De Guzman’s passion for medicine began in childhood, leading her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in General Science at Silliman University, which she completed in 1975, followed by medical education at the Cebu Institute of Medicine. Her career path was solidified during her Post Graduate Internship at Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital, where she discovered her love for obstetrics while delivering babies. This passion led to specialize in OB-GYN, completing her residency at Rizal Medical Center, where she became chief resident and dedicated herself to serving indigent patients. Dr. De Guzman excelled in her field, ranking second in the OBGYN Medical Specialist Qualifying Examination and passing the Diplomate Qualifying Examination. She became a fellow of the Philippine Obstetrics and Gynecological Society and served as a consultant at several prominent hospitals. Her expertise earner her invitations to represent the Philippines at international conferences, including the FIGO World Congress and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists World Congress.
ESTRELLA C. MERCURIO
Nursing Practice and Community Leadership with Specializatinos in Gerontology, Wound, Ostomy, and Continence
Ms. Estrella C. Mercurio’s nursing career began after earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Silliman University in 1971. She initially worked in academic, serving as dean at Our Lady of Mercy School of Nursing in Bacolod and Santa Mission Schools, Inc. in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. To enhance her leadership, she obtained a Master of Arts in Educational Management from Xavier University. Upon moving to Canada, she returned to hands-on nursing, earning certificates in Enterostomal Therapy and Gerontology. Ms. Mercurio’s dedication to healthcare is evident in her research, publications, and commitment to sharing best practices in wound and ostomy care. She contributed to developing the Greater Toronto Area Enterostomal Therapy Group’s Referral and Assessment Form, collaborated with the College of Nurses of Ontario to maintain patient care standards, and was a founding member of the Community Ethics Network. She also advocated for equitable elderly care services across Canada.
