DLSU forges monumental partnership with the Tiu Family

De La Salle University and Akari Lighting and Technology Corporation sealed an agreement for the establishment of an endowment for the School of Economics on May 3 at the Jose T. Pardo AFSC Hall. 

The ceremony featured the signing of multiple Deeds of Donation and a Memorandum of Agreement, including the establishment of the Tiu Family Endowment Fund, donation of the 3D video wall equipment, sponsorship of lighting fixtures for DLSU campuses, and the management of the DLSU Women’s Football Team. The highlight of the ceremony was the announcement by the Brother President of the naming of the School of Economics to the Carlos L. Tiu School of Economics.

The honorees were led by the family patriarch, Mr. Carlos L. Tiu with his wife Rosario; along with their accomplished Lasallian children – Christopher “Chris” Tiu (Legal Management, 1990), CEO of Akari Lighting and Technology Corporation; Catherine Tiu-Tan (MBA, 1989), Executive Vice President; Christine Tiu-Gaw (BS ECE, 1994), Vice President for Finance and Administration; Irene G. Tiu (Economics, 1995), Vice President for Procurement; Grace Tiu-So (Manufacturing Engineering and Management, 1999), Vice President for Warehouse and Logistics; Caroline Tiu-Esteban (Accountancy, 1991), Company Auditor; Charlene Tiu, wife of the late Carter Carlos Tiu (BSME, 2001); and Russel Balbacal, Akari Sports Director. 

In his welcome message, DLSU Provost Dr. Robert Roleda expressed his appreciation for the profound impact of the partnership and for the entrepreneurial vigor of the Tiu Family.  School of Economics Dean Dr. Arlene Inocencio, on the other hand, shared that the established professorial chairs, named after the honorees, would enable their faculty to produce groundbreaking research, develop macroeconomic models, and conduct evidence-based policy proposals for the government. 

Advancement and Alumni Relations Executive Director Edwin Theodoro Reyes recounted CEO Chris Tiu’s commitment to giving back to his alma mater, resulting in numerous contributions spanning community, charity, environmental programs, and sports development.

CEO Chris Tiu expressed his family’s gratitude to their alma mater, not only as donors, but more importantly as partners.  “Through these halls, we honed our skills, cultivated our passion, and nurtured our dreams … it is time to pay it forward,” he shared.  

The event also featured a tribute to the late Mr. Carter Carlos Tiu, commemorated by his son, Caleb Zachary Tiu, who spoke of continuing his father’s legacy through education and scholarships. 

DLSU President Br. Bernard Oca FSC, expressed gratitude and shared DLSU’s vision for the future, emphasizing the enduring impact of the partnership. “The Tiu Family Legacy will serve as one of our pillars–it is a celebration of the accomplishments of the university but more so, it is a testament to the quality of our graduates and the successes of their families as well.” He pointed out that the Carlos L. Tiu School of Economics symbolizes vision, excellence, and philanthropy.

The event, which highlighted collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to educational and athletic excellence, was attended by the members of the DLSU Board of Trustees, top administrators, the Women’s Football Team, representatives from DLSAA, the University Student Government, as well as officers and managers from Akari.