QUEZON City Councilor Alfred Vargas graduated as valedictorian of the University of the Philippines School of Urban and Regional Planning (UP SURP) Class of 2025, dedicating his academic success to his longtime manager, the late Lolit Solis.
Vargas topped the Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning (DURP) program at UP Diliman with a General Weighted Average of 1.0288, earning him the prestigious Dean’s Medallion. He delivered the valedictory address during the graduation rites held Saturday at the UP Film Center, just days after the passing of Solis.
“Nay Lolit, para sa ’yo ang tagumpay na ito,” an emotional Vargas said in his speech, honoring their 21-year professional relationship.
The 5th District councilor also expressed gratitude to his wife Yasmine and their four children—Alexandra, Aryana, Cristiano, and Aurora—for their understanding and constant support throughout his academic journey.
In his address, Vargas underscored the need for compassion in the field of urban planning. “Hindi sapat ang teknikal na kaalaman o malalim na expertise para maging urban planner, kailangan natin ng puso at malasakit,” he said.
He stressed that genuine kindness is essential in promoting good governance and social justice, and in confronting pressing urban issues. “Walang halaga ang ating pagtatapos kung hindi natin isasabuhay ang kabutihan at kagandahang-loob,” he said. “Hindi sapat ang ating mga kamay. Kailangan natin ng puso.”
Drawing from his experience in public service, Vargas cited the establishment of the Quezon City Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) and the passage of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act as examples of participatory and compassionate governance.
“Let this graduation be a natural ending to our course and the beginning of a new breed of Filipino urban planners who can lead with kindness, expertise, and character,” Vargas said.