The past days have been exceptionally difficult for us not only because we had to face the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, but also because we had to deal with the untimely loss of an esteemed alumnus, faculty, and member of the DAP Academic Council – Dr. Rolando “Rolly” L. Metin.

Dr. Metin was among the elite CES cadre selected to join the Career Executive Service Development Program (CESDP) Phase 2, a long-cycle training program conducted by the Development Academy of the Philippines to prepare government executives to high-level positions. The DAP was very proud and honored when Dr. Metin was appointed Undersecretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and lately, as member of the Career Executive Service Board and the Board of Directors of the Development Bank of the Philippines.

Throughout his productive years, Dr. Metin has been part of the DAP community. Dr. Metin was known both for his brilliance as a professor and for his passion as an environmentalist as reflected in his numerous work achievements. Dr. Metin taught the Sustainable Development module under the Special Topics in Economic Development course under the Master in Public Management Program. Being a champion of the environment, he co-designed the MPM in Biodiversity Conservation & Management whose some of the graduates are now the middle managers of the DENR.

When the CESDP program was revived through the Public Management Development Program (PMDP), Dr. Metin continued to impart his knowledge and expertise on the theory and practice of public administration through the PMDP Middle Managers Class. PMDP scholars also got the chance to enjoy Dr. Metin’s discussions on the often-conflicting relations of politicos and bureaucrats and on how career executives navigate the complicated path of promoting public interest through his module on Philippine Governance and Administrative System that he co-designed as its Faculty-in-Charge.

For the people Dr. Metin worked closely with, he will always be remembered both for his being jolly and approachable and for his being strict when it comes to promoting excellence at work. Dr. Metin is very much known for having high standards which he imposed on the crafting of DAP’s academic programs and which he staunchly promoted as a member of the DAP Academic Council from 2010 up to the time of his passing.

We remember and honor Dr. Metin’s life not only for his selfless contribution to nation-building as a public servant, but also for the meaningful friendships and beautiful memories he made with us. As one DAP community, we join Dr. Metin’s family and friends as we pray for the repose of his soul.

From the Chairman and Members of the Board of Trustees, Officers, and Staff of the
Development Academy of the Philippines