Sen. Manny Villar, Amb. Nikolay Kudashev and Gregory Pototsky with the Knights of Rizal led by Rhegis Romero.

MANILA, Philippines -- Despite the inclement weather last week, Villar Foundation went on with its scheduled launch of “University Town,” its latest pet project born out of the foundation’s vision to build a center for the youth’s education, development and training. Since its inception in 1995, the Villar Foundation has implemented numerous projects for the youth and the “University Town” is a welcome addition.

It was a “rain or shine” affair and happily the invited guests obliged. Unveiled early that day (June 25) was a bronze statue of our national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, created by no less than renowned Russian sculptor and artist Gregory Pototsky, who together with Russian Amb. Nikolay Kudashev, was there to grace the unveiling of his creation “Rizal: Empowering the Youth.” The timing was perfect as the country is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Dr. Rizal.

The program was held at the Fernbrook Gardens. The national anthem was sung by the famed UP Concert Chorus, while the invocation was interpreted in dance by the multi-awarded Halili-Cruz School of Ballet. The two groups also rendered other well-applauded numbers.

Senator Manny Villar, chairman of the Villar Foundation, said: “The vision of the foundation for the youth’s development, the concept of a ‘university town,’ and of course the inspiration from the educational philosophies of Jose Rizal are all coming together perfectly in this project.”

The statue of Jose Rizal, he said, will serve as a beacon or inspirations to the ideals and dreams of the students at the “University Town,” especially since the highly educated Rizal placed great importance towards learning and education. And as lawyer Ramonsita Reyes, descendant of Jose Rizal, said in her message, “education gives us freedom from the schackles of ignorance and poverty...”

According to former Rep. Cynthia A. Villar, managing director of the Villar Foundation, the proposed University Town will no doubt appeal to parents who want their children to study in a safe, organized and conducive environment that is conveniently located near their homes.

“Access to education in a conductive environment is important in developing the youth into becoming responsible, responsive, pro-active, and morally upright members of the society – a key mission of the foundation.”

The Villar Foundation, which recently gained international recognition when it bagged the United Nation’s Best Practices Award for its rehabilitation of the Las Piñas-Zapote river, also has numerous advocacies for the youth and students such as Sagip Bukas (Save the Future), a school-based anti-drug abuse campaign; the Villar Excellence Award for academic excellence, and sports events such as billiard tournament “Villars Cup” and “Sports sa Barangay.”

Situated in Daang Reyna in the Las Piñas-Cavite area, the sprawling “University Town” will boast of top caliber schools that will cater to South Manila-based families looking for accessible and affordable education in the area.

Sound Fusion at Yupangco Electronics

Sound technicians, audio enthusiasts and practitioners are expected to attend the product clinic “Sound Fusion” to be conducted by Yupangco Electronics Corporation. The event is scheduled on July 7 at YEC’s Main Showroom (339 Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City).

The clinic is in cooperation with the top three brands in professional audio equipment, namely Audio-Technica Microphones, Coneq Acoustic Power Equalizer and Klotz a-i-s Cables. Participants will have the chance to win novelty items and special prizes.

Alexander Lepges, Product and Technical Support Manager of Audio-Technica, Europe will give all potential customers and audio engineers a chance to learn and discover the various “mic-ing techniques” for instruments, vocals and choir. He will present various installations made by Audio-Technica like those during the last Olympics Game as well as the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Visit www.yupangco.com for further details.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings for Tuesday, July 5, go to Janet Basco, US-based Cielito del Mundo, Djhoanna Garcia, Dr. Grace Tersero, Perpetuo Silan and Jaime Hidalgo, Monica Aveo, Toni Serrano Parsons, Norma Francia, Nomer Pabilona, JC Nigado, Rita Canchela, Marie Acosta, Donna Louise Poltan, Marcial S. Alix Jr., Lino Aromin, Loreto Uson delos Santos, Eagle Riggs, Eric Soriano, Amelia Pineda, and immigration lawyer Michael Gurfinkel... Happy wedding anniversary to Eddie and Josie Seson of Hawaii...