Saint Philomene of Alcala Alumni Success Stories: Dr. Jane Castillo – A Life of Dedication and Impact
- Jose Ponce
- Feb 28
- 4 min read
A Journey Rooted in Education and Community
Born in Alcala, Cagayan, Dr. Jane Canicula Castillo grew up in a large family of nine children, where she was the second eldest. Her mother was an elementary teacher, and her father worked for the Bureau of Telecommunication, instilling in her a deep appreciation for education and discipline. Jane’s formative years were shaped at Alcala Central School for her elementary education and later at Saint Philomene of Alcala for high school.
The Saint Philomene of Alcala Experience: Challenges and Growth
Studying at Saint Philomene of Alcala was both challenging and fulfilling. As a Catholic school, it provided her with not only academic excellence but also a strong foundation in faith and values. The dedication of teachers and mentors, including Tatang Rogelio Ponce and the De Leon, Calvo, Antonio, and Paz families, played a significant role in shaping her future. Their commitment to education inspired her to pursue higher studies despite financial challenges.
One of Jane’s biggest struggles as a student was paying for school fees, which often distracted her during exams. However, Saint Philomene of Alcala’s compassionate approach allowed her to continue her education through promissory notes, reinforcing her belief in giving back to those in need when she became successful.
The Path Beyond Saint Philomene of Alcala: A Lifelong Commitment to Teaching
After graduating with honors from Saint Philomene of Alcala in 1962, Jane decided to pursue teaching, inspired by the educators in her family. She took the entrance exam for the Philippine Normal College, known for its excellence in training future teachers. With determination and hard work, she passed with flying colors and earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education.
Her passion for learning did not stop there. She later pursued a Master’s in Education, which led her to teach at the college level, and eventually, she obtained her Ph.D. in Educational Management, making her Dr. Jane Castillo. For her, diligence, persistence, and faith were the pillars that drove her success.
A Distinguished Career in Education and Leadership
Dr. Castillo dedicated 32 years of her career to teaching at the university level, specializing in Educational Philosophies, Humanities, and Teaching Fundamentals. She took on leadership roles as:
Dean of Student Affairs
Associate Dean of the Graduate School
Director of Public Affairs for Internal Relations
Beyond the university, she expanded her influence by working with non-government organizations (NGOs), serving as:
Regional Trainer for POPCom (Population Commission Office)
President of Zonta International for Women in Tuguegarao
Dance Consultant & Director of CTC Dance Troupe
Her career also led her to international business forums, where she represented her university president at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), excelling in a business management program that ranked her Top 3 in her class.
Family, Entrepreneurship, and Community Impact
Dr. Castillo’s dedication extended beyond education into business and family life. She married Rommel Castillo, a real estate entrepreneur, and together they raised three accomplished children—Athena, Rajah, and JaRomme, who excelled academically with scholarships at UP Diliman and Philippine Science High School. They have since built their own families, and she now treasures her five grandchildren.
Despite her many accomplishments, Dr. Castillo remains deeply committed to helping others. Through the RAJ Student Aid Program, a joint initiative with her husband, she supports students in need, enabling them to pursue college education as working scholars.
A Tribute to Saint Philomene of Alcala, Classmates, and Mentors
To her classmates who are still alive and thriving, Dr. Castillo expresses gratitude for the journey they have shared and the blessings of reaching this stage in life. To those who have passed, she prays for their eternal peace and fondly remembers the memories they shared during their high school years at Saint Philomene of Alcala.
She extends her heartfelt appreciation to Saint Philomene of Alcala, the institution that shaped her values and fueled her dreams. Her message to current students is clear:
"Set your goals in life after high school. Strengthen your determination to succeed, and even when challenges arise, don’t stop—turn them into opportunities."
To the school administrators and faculty, Dr. Castillo congratulates them on Saint Philomene of Alcala’s 75th anniversary, acknowledging the remarkable growth of the institution and its continued relevance in today’s world.
"I salute you all with pride. God bless my beloved Alma Mater."
A Legacy of Gratitude and Service – Join the Movement
Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Castillo expresses gratitude to Saint Philomene of Alcala for shaping her values, resilience, and commitment to service. To her former teachers and mentors, she offers prayers of gratitude, acknowledging their lasting impact on her personal and professional growth.
Her story serves as a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and giving back, inspiring future generations of Saint Philomene of Alcala alumni to pursue excellence and make a difference in their communities.
Get Involved!
Are you an alumnus of Saint Philomene of Alcala with an inspiring story to share? Do you want to contribute to the legacy of excellence and service? Join our alumni community, give back, and inspire the next generation!
📌 Share your story, mentor students, or support scholarships – because together, we build a stronger legacy.
👉 Connect with us today and be part of the Saint Philomene of Alcala Alumni Network! https://www.spa.edu.ph/contact
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