The Philippines bid farewell to a titan of media, public service, and education, Atty. Gilberto M. Duavit Sr., who passed away on December 14, 2018, at the age of 84. His life was marked by transformative contributions, from shaping the nation’s broadcast industry to realizing the dream of accessible state university education in his home province of Rizal.
Atty. Duavit Sr. was a seminal figure in Philippine broadcasting, widely recognized as the Founding Chairman of GMA Network (GMA-7). His early leadership and strategic vision were crucial in establishing and growing GMA into the influential media powerhouse it is today. His work helped lay the groundwork for a network that would become a vital source of news, public affairs, and entertainment for millions of Filipinos, permanently impacting the country’s communication landscape.
Beyond his media achievements, Atty. Duavit Sr.’s deep commitment to his constituents in Rizal Province defined his political career as a former Congressman. His most enduring legislative legacy is his instrumental role as one of the “brains” behind the establishment of the University of Rizal System (URS) as a state university.
Recognizing the essential need to consolidate and elevate public higher education in Rizal, he championed the integration of several existing institutions. This vision culminated when Republic Act 9157 lapsed into law on August 11, 2001. The act effectively unified the following institutions to form the URS: Rizal State College and its extension campuses (in Angono, Binangonan, Pililla, Rodriguez, and Tanay); Rizal Polytechnic College and its extension campus (in Cainta); and Rizal Technological University-Antipolo Annex.
The URS stands as a lasting monument to Atty. Duavit Sr.’s belief that quality, public higher education should be readily available to the youth of Rizal, providing them with the tools for a brighter future.
Atty. Gilberto M. Duavit Sr.’s passing leaves a void in the fields he helped build. He will be remembered as a dedicated public servant and a man of vision whose work will continue to benefit generations to come.
