Eugene Torre, Asia’s first Grandmaster, was conferred the Doctor of Science degree honoris causa from the Mapua University during its 17th Commencement Exercises held at the Philippine International Convention Center.
Torre was the guest of honor and commencement speaker of the event, which recognized his exceptional contributions to the field of chess and sports.
Torre, who left Mapua as a third-year Business Administration student to focus on chess, became the first Asian Grandmaster in 1974 and was recently inducted into the World Chess Hall of Fame in October 2022. The Doctor of Science honoris causa recognizes GM Torre’s extraordinary achievements and impact on society, as well as his character, leadership, and sportsmanship.
Mapua University President, Dr. Reynaldo B. Vea, said, “We are proud and honored to confer GM Eugene Torre with the Doctor of Science honoris causa. He embodies the Mapuan spirit of excellence and service and represents the best of Filipino values and heritage.”
The 17th Commencement Exercises also recognized the hard work and dedication of the families, friends, mentors, and teachers who supported the graduates throughout their journey. Mapua University has a rich history in chess, producing legends such as First International Master Rodolfo Tan Cardoso, Asian Zonal and Philippine Champion IM Renato Naranja, and was the First Chess Team Champion in 1976 when chess was included in the National Collegiate Atholetic Association (NCAA) and leading universities Ateneo and De La Salle were still NCAA members. -Marlon Bernardino-