Four Ateneo alumni recognized as part of The Outstanding Young Men 2024

Four Ateneo de Manila University alumni have been recognized as part of the 2024 batch of The Outstanding Young Men. The Ateneo TOYM Awardees are, Pia Ranada (AB Communications 2012), Jenica Dizon-Mountford (BFA Information Design 2013), Billie Dumaliang (BS Management Honors 2014), and Gab Mejia (AGS 2010 and AHS 2014).

Pia Ranada, who graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2012 with a Bachor of Arts degree in Communications, was cited by the TOYM Foundation for her critical coverage of the presidency of Rodrigo Duterte – being “the voice of truth in turbulent times” – as well as her current work in building trust between journalists and the public.

Jenica Dizon-Mountford, who graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Major in Information Design and a double Minor in Development and Management, was cited for her humanitarian work as part of Waves for Water, an organization that seeks to provide clean drinking water to communities around the country that lack the infrastructure for it. Ms Dizon-Mountford was also a part-time lecturer at Ateneo from January 2022 to June 2024.

Billia Dumaliang, who graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Management (Honors Program), was cited for her work as a Director and Board Trustee of the Masungi Georeserve Foundation, the award-winning environmental conservation project protecting prehistoric limestone formations and endemic biodiversity of the Masungi Georeserve against many threats.

Gab Mejia, graduated from Ateneo High School in 2014 before finishing his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of the Philippines. Mejia was cited for his work, which also includes art and articles, focuses on raising awareness about the environment, particularly the wetlands, endangered wildlife and indigenous communities. Mejia is also a cofounder of Youth Engaged in Wetlands, a youth network across 30 countries focused on the conservation of wetlands and migratory birds.

Formerly known as  The Outstanding Young Filipinos from 1996 to 1999, The Outstanding Young Men is an annual national recognition organized by the Junior Chamber International Philippines and co-sponsored by the TOYM Foundation, and the Gerry Roxas Foundation. It is awarded to Filipinos between 18 and 40 years of age who have made significant contributions to their field or community.

Ateneo de Manila congratulates Pia, Jenica, Billie, and Gab for being selected as part of TOYM 2024 and hopes that they will be able to continue the good work that earned them this recognition.

Ad majórem Dei glóriam