Former UP president, political scientist Francisco Nemenzo dies


The University of the Philippines Diliman campus. Photo by INQUIRER / RICHARD A. REYES

MANILA, Philippines — Former University of the Philippines (UP) president and renowned political scientist Francisco “Dodong” Nemenzo passed away on Thursday.

The news was announced by Philippine Breast Cancer Network President and UP alumnus Danny Meneses on Facebook.

“Dr. Francisco ‘Dodong’ Nemenzo, born in Cebu City on February 9, 1935, lived a life rich in thought, action, and impact. He passed away on December 19, 2024, at 89 years old,” Meneses post reads.

In a statement on Thursday, UP remembered Nemenzo as a “political scientist, professor, and radical educator known for his strong nationalist and anti-imperialist views, as well as his lifelong commitment to the University.”

Nemenzo spent his college years at UP, earning both his undergraduate and graduate degrees in Public Administration, before pursuing a PhD in Political Science at the University of Manchester in United Kingdom.

As the 18th president of UP, Nemenzo made significant contributions to the institution. He strengthened academic programs by encouraging faculty members to pursue postgraduate studies.

“He also streamlined the University bureaucracy to improve efficiency and raised funds to support modernization efforts. His administration is credited with renovating facilities across UP campuses, launching new buildings, and improving faculty and staff welfare through salary increases and merit promotions,” UP’s statement reads.

One of Nemenzo’s notable achievements is the expansion of UP College Admission Test centers across the country, ensuring greater access to the institution for aspiring students.

“He modernized the university and spearheaded initiatives that fostered critical thought and academic excellence,” Meneses said.

A prominent intellectual, Nemenzo was incarcerated for his activism during martial law under former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

“He advocated unwaveringly for social justice and reform, and played leadership roles in political organizations and social movements,” Meneses said.

Nemenzo is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ana Maria “Princess” Nemenzo, and their children Fidel, Leonid, and Lian.

A memorial service will be held for his family, friends, and comrades, according to Meneses. The details are yet to be announced.

In December 2015, Nemenzo was hospitalized at the Philippine General Hospital’s intensive care unit after being diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, a rare and life-threatening infection that affects the brain and spinal cord.

READ: Ex-UP president Nemenzo ‘critical’ due to bacterial meningitis