Actor-politician Alfred Vargas graduated valedictorian of the University of the Philippines Diliman’s School of Urban and Regional Planning (SURP), dedicating his academic success to his longtime manager Lolit Solis, who passed away just days before the ceremony.
A Quezon City councilor, Alfred topped the Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning (DURP) program for the Class of 2025, earning a General Weighted Average of 1.0288, the highest in his batch. He was awarded the Dean’s Medallion during the commencement exercises held at the UP Film Center last Saturday.
Alfred was emotional as he delivered his valedictory. He honored Lolit Solis, who had been his manager and mentor for 21 years.
“Nay Lolit, para sa ‘yo ang tagumpay na ito,” he said through tears.
He also expressed deep gratitude to his wife Yasmine and their four children for their unwavering support throughout his academic journey.
In his speech, he emphasized the importance of compassionate and inclusive urban planning, urging his fellow graduates to go beyond technical expertise and lead with empathy and integrity.
“This graduation is meaningless if we choose indifference over kindness,” he said. “It’s not enough to have technical skills — we need heart.”
Alfred called on future urban planners to center their work on social justice and community participation, especially when addressing challenges like housing shortages, environmental degradation, traffic, and inequality.
Drawing from his experience in public service, he cited the creation of the Quezon City Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO) in 2011 and the passage of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act as examples of effective people-centered planning.
“Listen to the people, especially those on the margins. Go beyond token public consultations. Real empowerment happens when diverse voices shape decisions,” he said.
Vargas closed his address with a message of hope for the next generation of planners.
“Let this graduation mark the beginning of a new breed of Filipino urban planners who lead with kindness, expertise and character.”
Already holding degrees in Management Economics from Ateneo de Manila University and a Master’s in Public Administration from UP NCPAG, Alfred is currently pursuing a PhD in Urban and Regional Planning at UP School of Urban and Regional Planning.
