Dr. Perry S. Ong: The Man of CS

coach conductor UPD Institute of Biology Director, 2006 - 2012

UPD College of Science Dean, 2018 - 2019

colleague

Dr. Perry Ong passed away last March 2, 2019, only a year into his term as the dean of the College of Science. This photo is Scientia’s last on file of the late dean, taken during his opening remarks for the Diliman Intercollege

Socials held February 22, 2019, just nine days before his passing. WRITTEN BY RICCI MAE MARGALLO

HE WAS OFTEN DESCRIBED by his taillike hair and usual plain shirt and jeans, his humble vibe exuding every time you see him around the Science Complex, particularly within the Admin Building and the Institute of Biology. He was the “6C’s” of the College of Science (CS) as what he wanted to portray himself — Coach, Conductor, Catalyst, Cheerleader, Critic and Colleague. But what this man had shown was more than how he was known.

Dr. Perry Ong, the late Dean of CS, is one of the most notable professors in the university for his major contributions in the field of biology. His deep love for nature led him to conduct numerous research about urban biodiversity, forest restoration, biodiversity conservation and monitoring of geothermal production fields. Dean Perry also dedicated much of his efforts in the preservation of different endemic plants in the country. His works made him bag prestigious awards such as the Outstanding Youth Scientist Award (2004), the Hugh Greenwood Environmental Science Award (2004) and the Concepcion Dafuldaza Award for Distinguished Achievement (2016).

But aside from his scientific contributions, what made Dean remarkable to the CS community was his admirable service to the college. Despite the short time of his administration, he was able to spearhead many projects that greatly benefited the students.

Under his term was the inception of the CS Study Nook that provided students with a free and convenient space available 24/7 for studying and reviewing. This project has helped students who are struggling with their academics, especially those who cannot afford to go to cafés to spend their late nights to review for their exams or make their requirements.

His concern for the welfare of students was not limited to giving them a place to study. He also made efforts to address their financial needs. One was by ensuring that the monthly stipend of graduate students who are beneficiaries of the DOST Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program (ASTHRDP) are released on time, or at minimum, less delayed.

He was also earnest in creating avenues for CS’s future scientists to enhance their skills, communicate their ideas, and share their knowledge with people from different fields. He initiated the first ever CS Graduate Student Research Conference where students from various institutes presented their research to the wider public, and the CS Alumni Talks where they were inspired by science professionals who are now successful in their respective careers.

He too ensured that students experience quality amenities in the college. He designated a new office known as the Office of the Associate Dean for Facilities and Resource Management (OADFARM) to take care of the facilities to be put up within the complex. He even insured around 10.6 million pesos to fund further developments of the College of Science Resource Center (CSRC), which include the procurement of desktops and the upgrade of internet connection.

These were only some of the undertakings Dr. Perry made in his short while as dean, but his actions spoke a lot of how he valued and responsibly performed his role of giving CS students the best environment for them to realize their aspirations of becoming scientists in service of the nation. He did not settle for anything less but always pushed through the boundaries and exerted all what he can do to fulfill his endeavors for the students, and for the college as a whole.

The entire CS mourned over Dean’s passing but his leadership will always continue to be a challenge for future administrators and an inspiration to both students and faculty. ●