Prof. Tomasito Talledo finished his teaching career, which spanned over 40 years, on a high note through a retirement lecture held at the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) Little Theatre, Iloilo City campus, last December.
Organized by the Division of Social Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Talledo’s retirement lecture on Dec. 6 dubbed “The Parable that is General Education in the University” was attended by colleagues, former students, and friends who were eager to listen to Talledo one last time as a professor in the University.
Aside from teaching Political Science and Sociology, Talledo, or "Sir Tom" as he was fondly called, was known for teaching General Education (GE) classes. GE is a transformative education, enabling students to change themselves, their worldview, and their world.
The history of the UP System’s GE framework is the cornerstone of the University’s liberal education, which has been implemented for decades and undergone revisions, to which Talledo was vocal on his thoughts.
Some of Talledo’s former students from various batches said his classes were fun and interactive, but they always had to come prepared when entering the classroom because he was particular with oral recitations.
Before the lecture, Asst. Prof. Early Sol Gadong of the Division of Professional Education, a colleague and fellow unionist, introduced the GE professor and described him as somebody whose “passion for justice and equality has left an indelible mark on the academic landscape, inspiring others to stand up for what they believe in.”
Talledo’s “unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge has not only enriched our academic community but has resonated far beyond the confines of our institution,” Gadong said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Johnrev Guilaran, Division of Social Sciences Chair, said he hopes that retirement lectures for faculty members will continue in the future to honor the service rendered to the University.
“We really thank you, Sir Tom, for your passion, for your commitment, and for your drive to teach... not just the lives of people in the University, but the lives of the Filipinos – of the community in general,” Guilaran said.
Talledo started his teaching career in 1981, a year after he earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science at UPV. He also has a master’s degree in Sociology from UP Diliman, graduating in 1993. (with sources from Asst. Prof. Early Sol Gadong. Photos by Alven Polido, IPO)
