Huling Pagpupugay for Vgd. Zoilo M. Lapus ’67
24 September 2023 – UP Vanguard Inc. held its Huling Pagpupugay to pay tribute to Vgd. Zoilo M. Lapus ’67 (LB) at St. Peters Quezon Avenue.
Two of Vgd. Zoilo’s classmates from Vanguard Class Defiant 1967 shared memories and stories during the tribute.
Vgd. Gary Garcia ’67 shared their experiences from being batchmates in COCC to their 1st class days where Vgd. Zoilo was adjutant. He also shared stories of how they pursued their careers, and how Vgd. Zoilo has as been proud of his training in ROTC and how it helped him be successful in his field.
Vgd. Ed Rimando’67 also talked about his memories with Vgd. Zoilo as cadet officers and some turning points in the life of Vanguard Zoilo from the New York apartment incident (rental had died) and how he heroically saved the life of a passenger in plane (even if he was a veterinarian) and other “swine stories”. He emphasized the role of spiritual health and how it also impacted Sir Zoilo.
Vgd. Zoilo’s son, Robin, as part of the response of the family, shared their fond memories of their dad and how they witnessed his victories and challenges in the field of veterinary medicine including key moments when this dad was instrumental to the Philippine Veterinary Medicine being recognized globally. He also shared his father’s fondess for the UP and anything related to it including Chocolate Kiss, Mang Jimmy’s and Mang Larry’s. He also shared that his dad’s love for Vanguard was so much that he valued his UPVI Oblation Award more than the national and international awards he got in his field of Veterinary Medicine.
Photos courtesy of: Vgd. Kenneth Tirado ’99 and Vgd. Reg Sevilla-Sibal ’00
Duty.Honor Country.
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