Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU) is proud to announce the establishment of the prestigious Dr. Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar Leadership Award. This esteemed recognition is bestowed upon a remarkable graduate who exemplifies exceptional leadership qualities and has made a significant contribution to the MLQU community, while upholding and advancing the core values and vision of the university.
The Academic Council of MLQU takes immense pride in naming this leadership award after an individual whose life story serves as an inspiration to all, whose accomplishments and dedication have touched numerous domains, including student life, entrepreneurship, real estate development, tourism, cultural heritage, and public service.
Born on June 19, 1955, in Balanga, Bataan, Dr. Acuzar completed his elementary education at Balanga Elementary School in 1967 and his secondary education at Arellano Memorial High School (now known as Bataan National High School). While working as a cutter-welder in his older brother’s ironworks shop, he pursued a vocational course in drafting at the Bataan National School of Arts and Trades (now the Bataan Peninsula State University).
Dr. Acuzar began his career in housing development as a draftsman for the Tondo Foreshore Redevelopment Project in 1975 while still studying in college. He was a working student at the Technological Institute of the Philippines taking up Bachelor of Arts in Architecture.
Undoubtedly, Dr. Acuzar is one of the most successful individuals from Balanga who has made a name in the construction industry. As a self-made billionaire, he is the proud owner of the Galeria Victoria Mall in Balanga, the world class heritage resort “Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar” in Bagac, Bataan, several condominiums, and housing projects, New San Jose Builders, Inc., and our beloved Manuel L. Quezon University. His success in the real estate sector has enabled him to expand his investments in diverse fields, such as education, health and wellness, restaurants, and the arts. In 2014, he acquired MLQU.
Dr. Acuzar’s achievements in real estate development have garnered numerous awards and distinctions, including the 2021 Best Historic Hotel in Asia and the Pacific Award for the renowned “Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. Furthermore, in 2014, he was granted an honorary doctorate degree in fine arts from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).
Notably, Dr. Acuzar, was appointed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos as the Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) on July 30, 2022. Additionally, he serves as the Chairperson of the Board of the key shelter agencies, including the Pag-Ibig Fund, National Housing Authority, Social Housing Finance Corporation, and National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation.
It is with great pleasure that MLQU announces the recipient of the Dr. Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar Leadership Award for this inaugural year. Mr. Don Dave T. Bondoc, a member of the Class of 2023, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BS in Legal Management degree from the School of Business. Mr. Bondoc’s outstanding academic performance is complemented by his active involvement as a student leader in MLQU, having served as the President of the MLQU Student Body and the School of Business student organization, among other notable roles.
MLQU congratulates Mr. Bondoc for his remarkable achievements and exemplary leadership qualities. He embodies the core values of MLQU, including moral righteousness, love of country, quality learning, and unity. His dedication and commitment to the MLQU community have made a lasting impact, and he serves as an inspiration to current and future students.
The establishment of the Dr. Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar Leadership Award signifies MLQU’s commitment to nurturing and recognizing exceptional leaders within its community. The university believes that through acknowledging outstanding individuals like Mr. Bondoc, it encourages and motivates the student body to strive for excellence and contribute positively to society.
MLQU remains steadfast in its mission to provide quality education while instilling the values and principles that embody the legacy of President Manuel L. Quezon. The university takes pride in the achievements of its graduates and remains dedicated to cultivating leaders who will shape the future with moral integrity, patriotism, and a commitment to continuous learning.
As MLQU continues to evolve and thrive under the guidance of Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, it remains committed to empowering its students to become leaders who will make a difference in their respective fields and society at large.
