UST: University not involved in award for Mocha Uson
The Communications assistant secretary earned a bachelor's degree in Science in Medical Technology in 1998. She also took up Medicine at the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery but later chose to focus on a career in entertainment. Senate PRIB
MANILA, Philippines — The University of Santo Tomas administration on Monday has denied that it dipped its hand in the decision to recognize Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary Esther Margaux “Mocha” Uson for her service in the government.
In a statement, UST clarified that the award given to Uson came from the UST Alumni Association Inc. and not from the institution.
“The UAAI is a corporation distinct and separate from UST. It has its own board of trustees and operates independently. The University does not interfere with the affairs of UAAI or any of its alumni organizations,” it said.
UST noted that it only bestows The Outstanding Thomasian Alumni Awards—the highest citation it gives to exceptional alumni after undergoing stringent screening process.
READ: UST alumni: Award challenges Mocha, other grads to uphold Thomasian values
UAAI earlier issued a statement, noting its decision to recognize alumni in government service was meant to challenge recipients to uphold UST’s core values of compassion, competence and commitment.
It said criteria are for the recipients to be:
- A graduate of the University of Santo Tomas
- Working for the House of Representatives, Senate, judiciary or executive
The Communications assistant secretary earned bachelor's degree in Science in Medical Technology in 1998.
She also took up Medicine at the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery but later chose to focus on a career in entertainment.
READ: UST gives award to Mocha Uson for gov’t service
Uson’s inclusion in the list created buzz on social media Sunday night, with many individuals, including Thomasians, saying she is undeserving of the award.
UST Central Student Council issued a statement saying Uson, whom it described as "widely known as the main purveyor of politically-motivated propaganda against known members of the government's opposition, and an avid spreader of fake news" did not deserve the citation.
But for Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, the award validates that Uson’s appointment was for good reasons.
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