Sophie M. Catbagan, fondly known as โDean Pinkyโ, served as the 6th Dean of the UP College Baguio from June 1, 1972, to June 15, 1985. Her tenure, spanning 13 years, coincided with one of the most turbulent periods in the history of both UP Baguio and the country. Martial Law had been declared, and the nation was in a state of unrest.
Former UP Baguio Chancellor Priscilla Supnet-Macansantos, reflected on Dean Pinky’s unique approach during these challenging years, stating, ” To her credit, she allowed the ‘revival’ of the student paper Outcrop and the student government, which had been virtually shut down in ’72, while other school heads took a more ‘careful’ position regarding student activities.” Despite the chaos, Dean Pinkyโs leadership provided a steady hand and an enduring spirit for the institution.
Many of her former colleague and students recall her with deep admiration and affection. Dr. Teodora Balangcod remembers how Dean Pinkyโs presence on campus was unforgettable. She would glide gracefully into UP College Baguio, impeccably dressed, with her signature coiffed hair and a scent reminiscent of a bouquet of roses. Her elegance was not only in her appearance but also in how she handled the complexities of leading the college during a time when students were filled with unrest, grappling with political turmoil, and eager to express their discontent.
Retired Professor Jessica Cariรฑo (former UPCB Dean), who entered UP College Baguio as a freshie in 1972, the year martial law was declared, remembers how Dean Pinky navigated the tense political environment. She allowed students to freely express their opposition, ensuring that UP Baguio remained a space for intellectual and political discourse. When Prof. Cariรฑo became joined the faculty as a lecturer, she also recalls Dean Catbaganโs respect for academic freedom, empowering the faculty to teach with conviction, even during such politically fraught times.
Despite the challenges of leading UP Baguio during the martial law years, Dean Pinky was known for her personal warmth. She was kind and engaging, maintaining a close rapport with students and faculty. Her humility and generosity left a lasting impact on those who worked with her. Retired Prof. Lorelei Mendoza, who attended UPCB from 1972 to 1976 and later joined the faculty of the Division of Social Sciences, expresses her deep appreciation for her purpose-driven leadership.
As a student, Prof. Lorelei Mendoza recalls how approachable Dean Pinky was, fostering a friendly atmosphere that encouraged open communication. Unlike many institutional leaders, she was easily accessible, making students feel valued and connected. She actively promoted student engagement, encouraging participation in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, and allowing student organizations to utilize classrooms for their initiatives under structured guidelines.
A significant milestone in the college’s history occurred in 1977 when Dean Pinky approved a proposal from the faculty to conduct a workshop aimed at discussing a shared vision for UPCB and its organizational framework. This workshop brought together faculty, administrative personnel, and students, leading to the formation of a group tasked with drafting the principles of college governance.
This effort resulted in the creation of the “Organizational Charter of UP College Baguio,” an experience that influenced the faculty member’s sense of responsibility for the institution’s future. Dean Pinkyโs unwavering support played a crucial role in the approval of the revised BA Social Sciences curriculum in 1980, the establishment of the Cordillera Studies Center in June of that year, and the launch of the M.A. in Social and Development Studies, which began accepting students in the academic year 1982-1983.
Her contributions have shaped the landscape of UP College Baguio. Her commitment to academic excellence and advocacy for student and faculty involvement laid the groundwork for a vibrant educational environment. As her legacy is reflected upon, it is clear that the values she instilledโcollaboration, responsibility, and dedication to community and academic growthโcontinue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to learn under her guidance.
According to UPCB Alumnus Ricardo Torres Jr., it was also during the leadership of Dean Sophie when the UP Baguio Beta Sigma fraternity was established in 1977. The more seasoned Beta Sigmans recall her patience, administrative tenacity and at times motherly attention to students of the tumultuous and socially active late 70s. “Boys, good morning … uhmm… behave! Attend classes!โ she would admonish whenever she would see them sitting on the steps of the memorable UP Baguio lobby. Her exhortations would be followed by the passing glance of the late Mr. Rafael Annawi who seemed to always be right at her heels.
Ric Torresโ wife, Professor Anna Christie Torres, looks back at the time when she first met Dean Pinky. She narrates: “I first met Dean Pinky Catbagan fresh out of college in the early 80s, as I applied for a teaching position at the now-defunct UP College Baguio High School. I did my teaching demo on poetry, and I remember she was listening attentively to my brief lecture.โ
โAt the end, she gently reminded me to begin the lesson by reading the poem aloud, so the class could savor it, slowly and fully. Thirty-plus years later, I still heed her advice in my literature classes. Roughly three years after I was hired, my husband and I bumped into Dean Pinky one late afternoon along Session Road, just outside the old Bookmark bookstore. We must have come from the Baguio Convention Center for the Commencement exercise because I recall we were dressed to the nines and my heels were making me uncomfortable. She took a good look at me, held my hands, and said, ‘Candy, you look tired. You must be conceiving.’ She was spot on. Then she turned to Ric and instructed him to take me home.”
Former Guidance Counselor Sally Leung also recalls an unforgettable encounter early in her employment at UP College Baguio. Feeling deeply demoralized and considering resignation due to interpersonal difficulties, she was surprised when Dean Pinky called her in for a meeting. โDo not leave; we value you,โ Dean Pinky said kindly yet firmly. This unexpected expression of support provided her with hope and courage during a challenging time, and those words continued to inspire her throughout her subsequent three and a half decades at UP Baguio.
A few years later, after the loss of her husband, Dean Pinky left UP College Baguio. During her farewell program, Sally hugged her tightly, with tears in her eyes as she expressed gratitude for that pivotal moment in Dean Pinkyโs office. Though her academic accomplishments may fade from memory, the compassion and generosity of Dean Pinky endures through time. Sally reflects on how Dean Pinky reached out with sincere empathy, valuing her efforts. โMy life would significantly be so much less if she had not intentionally asked me to see her that fateful morning and conveyed to me those words that changed my perspective of myself,โ she shared.
The memories and testimonials from those who knew her illustrate her remarkable characterโsomeone who inspired and genuinely cared for everyone around her. Dean Pinkyโs legacy continues to reverberate, reminding all who were fortunate to know her of the influence one leader can have on the lives of many. Her values of collaboration, responsibility, and commitment to growth remain a guiding light for future generations- future scholars of the University of the Philippines Baguio.
Acknowledgements
The Office of Public Affairs of UP Baguio extends its gratitude to the individuals who generously shared their testimonies and memories of Dean Sophie “Pinky” M. Catbagan.
Our sincerest thanks to:
Priscilla S. Macansantos
Teodora Balangcod
Jessica Cariรฑo
Lorelei Mendoza
Ricardo Torres Jr.
Anna Christie Torres
Sally Leung
Linda Grace Cariรฑo
Your contributions have made this tribute article a meaningful reflection of Dean Pinkyโs life, work, and enduring influence. You have not only honored her legacy but also enriched our understanding of the influence she made on the UP Baguio community and beyond.