The UP Open University Faculty of Management and Development Studies (UPOU-FMDS) congratulates its Doctor in Sustainability (DSus) student, Mr. Ariestelo A. Asilo, for being selected as the 2024 Distinguished Alumnus for Social Entrepreneurship. This prestigious award recognizes Mr. Asilo’s exceptional contributions to community development and sustainable entrepreneurship, particularly his impactful work in farm-to-market roads, community nutrition, coffee production, and entrepreneurship.
Mr. Asilo’s journey in social entrepreneurship began with his academic roots at the University of the Philippines. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition at the University of the Philippines Los Baños in 2007 and later earned his Master of Management from the College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, in 2018. These educational foundations equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to embark on initiatives that bridge the gap between farming communities and markets, ensuring better income and opportunities for local farmers.
His dedication to improving rural livelihoods through sustainable practices and innovative business models has made a substantial difference in the communities he serves. His current pursuit of the Doctor in Sustainability (DSus) Program of the UPOU-FMDS) underscores his commitment to integrating sustainable practices into his entrepreneurial ventures. His doctoral research focuses on creating resilient and sustainable agricultural systems that can withstand environmental and economic challenges. Reflecting on his doctoral studies, Mr. Asilo emphasized how the DSus program enhances his work at Varacco and Thinnkfarm by embedding sustainability at the core of his efforts. Initially focused on business growth, his goals have evolved toward sustaining resilience, goal orientation, and grit.
In an interview, Mr. Asilo shared his longstanding philosophy:
“Sustainability acts as an enabling mechanism in social entrepreneurship, providing essential tools, techniques, and platforms to measure change and impact through sustainable processes. It allows us to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that our solutions are not only theoretically sound but also practically effective.
In social entrepreneurship, developing a solution is grounded in theoretical knowledge, while delivering impact is rooted in field-based experience. By understanding both aspects, sustainability empowers social entrepreneurs to reflect on current resources and data, focusing on what is essential for driving sustainable development. This dual approach ensures that social enterprises and the communities they serve can thrive in a way that balances economic, social, and environmental considerations.”
This year’s roster of 96 distinguished awardees is led by Engr. Isidro Consunji of David M. Consunji, Inc. (DMCI) for his achievements in real estate, construction, and mining industries. Other notable awardees include Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, former Senator now Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara, and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Director General Tereso Panga.
The awarding ceremony will take place on August 17 at 6 p.m. at Ang Bahay ng Alumni in the University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, to be led by the UP Alumni Association. This event will be a celebration of the remarkable achievements of UP alumni who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
The UPOU congratulates Mr. Ariestelo A. Asilo and all the 2024 Distinguished Alumni awardees!
Written by Dona Lyn M. Piamonte ♦ Edited by: Larry N. Cruz ♦ Crossposted from FMDS Website
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