Dr. Pangilinan finished his primary and secondary education at San Beda College Manila.  He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics, cum laude, from the Ateneo de Manila University and  an MBA degree from the Wharton School of Finance and Commerce at the University of Pennsylvania.  He has been awarded four Honorary Doctorate in Humanities (Honoris Causa) by San Beda College in 2002, the Xavier University in 2007, Holy Angel University in Angeles, Pampanga in 2009, and the Far Eastern University in 2010.

The world of Philippine business has never seen a phenomenon like Dr. Pangilinan. His pioneering ventures in telecommunications by starting Smart Communications have totally revolutionized the lives of millions of Filipinos and democratized access to information by a majority.

For many of you whose parents work overseas, Smart Pinoy made it possible and affordable for your parents to stay in touch and be updated with how you’re doing in school.  PLDT-myDSL and SmartBro have made life easier for both students and teachers as these gave us the chance to connect to global websites for news, research, and learning about the world 24/7.  

Just a few days ago, the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company of which Dr. Pangilinan is Chairman expanded its wings by acquiring Digital Telecommunications Philippines. Given the track record of Smart Communications in coming up with creative and affordable products, we can only imagine and anticipate the wild opportunities for small businesses, budding entrepreneurs, researchers, teachers and students.

Information is power.  Dr. Pangilinan’s efforts in opening the doors for millions of Filipinos to communicate with each other and the world can only be liberating.  Although others may contend that it is not complete, it is liberation nonetheless.

Beyond telecommunications, Dr. Pangilinan brings his intellect, boldness, distinct style of leadership and managerial talents to other enterprises that will have significant impact on Filipinos’ access to healthcare, education, clean water, energy, transportation, and mass media.

There are different ways to construct Dr. Pangilinan’s narrative. Others may wish to focus on his compelling rags-to-riches story.  But in essence, it is a story of a Filipino who goes beyond the usual, shatters stereotypes, breaks limitations, seeks frontiers, stretches his limits, and retains his strong sense of self and respect amidst failures.  Yet in all of these, he remains grounded and continues his popular conversations with everyone through the film Rosario, and television shows like Talentadong Pinoy, Babaeng Hampaslupa, Face-to-Face, among others.

Dr. Pangilinan, we welcome you back to the soul and embrace of Montserrat —the seat of your incredible life narrative, outstanding accomplishments, and memories that have shaped your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for Our Lady of Montserrat. 

On the threshold of celebrating its 110th year in the service of God and country, San Beda College Manila is delighted to have you here this afternoon.  For all the places that you have been to, it is humbling for us to know, indeed, that this small, charming campus in an abbey remains a precious jewel in your heart. 

The only way for us to return the favour is just as you have always wanted it to be—to make you feel at home and bask in the warm affection of your friends, Fr. Benabare, and the saints in the abbey. My dear graduates, ladies and gentlemen, kindly join me in welcoming a true follower of St. Ignatius of Loyola, and a beloved son of Montserrat, Dr. Manuel V. Pangilinan