Dr. Onofre Corpuz, National Scientist and 13th UP president, passes away

National Scientist Onofre Corpuz passed away on Saturday, the University of the Philippines, where he once served as president, announced on its website Tuesday. He was 86. "It is with sadness that we announce the passing away of Dr. Onofre D. Corpuz, 13th UP President, last Saturday, 23 March 2013," wrote Lilian De Las Llagas, Secretary of the University and of the Board of Regents. Aside from being UP president from 1975 to 1979, Corpuz also served as Education Secretary from 1968 to 1971, according to the website of the UP School of Economics, where he was Professor Emeritus since 1993. Corpuz was also chairman of the Population Commission from 1968 to 1971. Corpuz wrote several books, including "An Economic History of the Philippines," "Saga and Triumph : The Filipino Revolution Against Spain," and "The Roots of the Filipino Nation." UP will hold a necrological service on April 1 at the Parish of the Holy Sacrifice, UP Diliman. A memorial Mass will be held at 6 p.m., followed by a tribute at 7 p.m. "In this connection, President Alfredo E. Pascual has ordered that the Philippine Flag in all Constituent Universities be flown at half-mast starting today until his interment which will be announced later," the memorandum said. Corpuz's cremated remains lie in state at Our Lady of Consolacion Chapel, Mira Nila Homes, Tandang Sora, Quezon City. — Carmela G. Lapeña/KBK, GMA News