Dr Alfredo RA ‘Alran’ Bengzon (20 October 1935 – 3 March 2026 ) (Memo U2526-076)

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With deep sadness, we inform the University community of the passing of Dr Alfredo RA ‘Alran’ Bengzon on 3 March 2026. 

Dr Alran started his Ateneo de Manila journey as a grade one student in 1941, but soon faced an unexpected interruption when war broke. After the school’s reopening, Dr Alran returned to Ateneo, where he completed both his primary and secondary education. In 1956, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Magna Cum Laude. He then pursued medical studies at the University of the Philippines. Dr Alran also earned his MBA degree at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business in 1972. 

Committed to lifelong learning and excellence, Dr Alran underwent advanced medical training in Germany, Canada, and the United States. Despite the allure of a flourishing career overseas, Dr Alran felt a strong calling to serve his homeland. He served as Executive Vice President and Assistant Medical Director at The Medical City. In 1986, he was appointed as Secretary of Health. Motivated by a deep desire to make a lasting and positive impact on the country’s healthcare landscape, Dr Alran championed and helped implement the Philippine National Drug Policy and the Generics Law. After serving government, he became the President of The Medical City, where he elevated standards of patient care and medical excellence with the core philosophy of ‘patients as partners.’

In 1993, Dr Alran returned to his alma mater, serving as dean of AGSB and eventually as Vice President for the Professional Schools and Social Development. His visionary goal of nurturing the next generation of physician leaders —exceptionally skilled clinicians who will transform the health system—culminated in the founding of the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health in 2007. 

In 1989, Ateneo de Manila conferred an honorary degree on Dr Alran. Two years later, he received the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for government service. In 2010, the University presented him with the Lux in Domino award.

Dr Alran will be remembered for his myriad accomplishments, but it is his innovative spirit, boundless kindness, and steadfast generosity—giving his mind and heart to serve others —that will leave an indelible mark on the Ateneo de Manila community. He truly was a light in the Lord. 

We request the Ateneo community to keep Dr Alran and his family in your prayers.