Dr. Cleope is a professor of History and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. He was appointed to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Institutional Sustainability Assessment team.
- What is the most unique place you have ever been to in the Philippines?
Actually there are a lot, but now, I can say it’s the island of Simara. Actually it’s an island municipality called Corcuera it’s in the middle of the Romblon Sea. It’s very isolated that’s why it’s very unique. A very small island but it’s a municipality.
- Growing up as only son, what lessons have you learned from your sisters?
If you are an only son surrounded by all sisters, it’s better not to stay at home all the time or else you become one of them. That’s why I always go out and be with my cousins (HAHA). Respect for women and filial piety is also something I have learned from them.
- How do you balance your time?
Basically it’s just prioritizing and you should know how to delegate. Then of course, you should have the courage to say ‘no’ to certain things.
- Being in Silliman almost all your life, what significant changes have you noticed in terms of the environment, students, and quality of education?
For the environment, practically there’s nothing much that has changed but maybe there’s just more cars than before. Students probably became better looking, taller, bigger and mature than ever. In terms of education, I think Silliman has maintained the quality education.
- What has being a Sillimanian taught you?
Competence, Character and Faith.
- Did you have to give up anything for success?
None that I know of.
- How do you maintain a strong and well-established relationship with others?
Respect as persons. Don’t put the accolades and achievements on the top of your head.
- What is it in history that fascinates you most?
Human Vanity.
- If you could go back in time, what significant historical event you would want to witness?
The creation, the event when the snake tempted Adam and Eve because I don’t think if Adam or Eve were Filipinos they wouldn’t eat the apple. I think they would eat the snake (HAHA).
- If you are to change something that happened in the past, what would it be?
The Creation. Filipinos should be in the Bible (HAHA)
- If you were talking to a student, how would you encourage him/her to love History?
Well it’s really not more of words but it’s more of how you act out. How you explain to them the relevance, because history is practically about dead people but it’s not the dead people it’s really more of the relevance. Relevance is very important.
- If you can be a character in the history, who would you be and why?
It would probably be me (HAHA)
