EXEMPLARY PUBLIC SERVANT. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman serves as guest speaker at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines' (PUP) commencement exercises at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Wednesday (Oct. 2, 2024). During the ceremony, PUP conferred an honorary doctorate on Pangandaman for her contributions to the nation's economic landscape, as well as her unwavering dedication to fostering transparent governance, peace, and health care initiatives. (Photo courtesy of DBM/Usapang Budget Natin Facebook)
MANILA – Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman received an honorary Doctorate in Public Administration from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in recognition of her service to the public.
Pangandaman was conferred the honorary degree during the university’s commencement exercises at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Wednesday, where she served as guest speaker.
PUP recognized her contributions to the nation's economic landscape, as well as her unwavering dedication to fostering transparent governance, peace, and health care initiatives.
The country’s largest state university also acknowledged Pangandaman’s advocacy work in sectors crucial to national development and her proactive efforts to support higher education.
“She has consistently worked to ensure that government resources reach the most vulnerable sectors of society, embodying the principles of equity and justice in governance. The Polytechnic University of the Philippines conferring this honorary doctorate on Secretary Pangandaman is a celebration of shared values,” PUP president Dr. Manuel Muhi stated during the conferment rites.
“Her commitment to education, equality, and inclusive development mirrors PUP's mission to provide accessible and quality education to Filipinos from all walks of life."
Addressing the graduating class from the College of Business Administration, Pangandaman encouraged them to “be the catalysts for progress" by using their gifts to help those in need.
“Whether you join the private or public sector, you have the knowledge, skills, and ability to shape the business landscape of our nation. And it’s an incredible opportunity for you – the next generation of business leaders – to be the catalysts for progress that our society so desperately needs,” she said.
“Use your gifts to uplift those who are marginalized, to advocate for those who are voiceless, and to create a more just, equitable, and compassionate society for all."
The budget chief has a degree in economics from the Far Eastern University and a diploma and master’s degree in development economics from the University of the Philippines.
She is on leave from her Executive Master of Public Administration Program at the London School of Economics to serve as budget secretary. (PNA)
