Dr. Marcelo V. Fernandez Sr., the founder of Fernandez College of Arts and Technology (FCAT), continues to receive posthumous awards for his invaluable contributions to society. Doctor F, as he was fondly called by his colleagues and friends, passed away in the early morning of March 17, 2023. He was 79 years old. He was a highly regarded educator, businessman, and philanthropist with various socio-civic engagements. He is survived by his wife (Lourdes), two sons (Marcelo Jr. and Erwin), and his grandchildren- Selina, Sophia, Samantha, Faith, and Sebastian.
First of all, he was honored with the Leadership Service Award from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Central Luzon Regional Office III during the celebration of the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Commission on Higher Education held on the 31st of May 2023 at the Kingsborough International Convention Center in San Fernando, Pampanga. He received this award for his lifetime commitment, pioneering endeavors, and meritorious contributions to the promotion of the ideals of higher education as President of FCAT and former President of the Central Luzon Association of Higher Education Institutions (CLASHEI).
Secondly, the Bulacan Association of Technical Vocational Schools (BATVS) presented him with a posthumous award for being the epitome of dedication and commitment to the ideals of the academe, for his unceasing desire and noblest contributions to improve all education sectors, be it DepEd, TESDA or CHED. This award was given on July 14, 2023, at the RTCCL Gymnasium, TESDA Compound, Tabang, Guiguinto Bulacan, during the Annual Meeting of BATVS for 2023.
Next, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Region III presented him with a posthumous award in memory of his distinguished contribution to Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Central Luzon and his substantial technical assistance as Chairman of the Regional Technical Education and Skills Development Committee (RTESDC) Region III. This award was presented on the 20th day of December 2023 at Royce Hotel, Clark Freeport, during the TESDA Tres Araw ng Pasasalamat 2023.
Further, the FCAT Main Building was dedicated as the Marcelo V. Fernandez Building in gratitude for exemplary service and commitment to the college’s founder. A ribbon cutting and unveiling ceremony was held on December 11, 2023 to celebrate his posthumous 80th birthday.
Lastly, as former Dean of the College of Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) of FCAT he was presented with a plaque of Recognition in eternal appreciation for the indelible mark left by his visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and transformative impact as School President and CBAA Dean. This award was presented during the BALLTA Days Celebration held January 26, 2024 at the MVF Hall, Pinagbarilan Annex, Baliwag City, Bulacan.
The board of trustees of FCAT wishes to thank all the various organizations who recognized the lifelong contributions of Dr. Marcelo V. Fernandez to the community and the nation. They believe that his life is a testament to his passion for excellence and ask each stakeholder of FCAT to continue to fulfill the mission left to them by the FCAT founder: To educate and train the global way.
