Dr. Lourdes R. Montinola Excellence awardee is Ronieth Dayao

At Far Eastern University (FEU), excellence is not limited to the classroom. It is expressed in every stage, studio, and community—where talent meets heart, and learning meets purpose. The university recognizes Ronieth Dayao as the 4th recipient of the Dr. Lourdes R. Montinola Excellence in Art and Culture Award, a recognition given to a graduating student who has excelled in both academics and the arts. 

Ronieth graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Science and is also recognized as one of FEU’s Outstanding Senior Students of 2025. Since joining the FEU Dance Company (FDC) in senior high school, she has grown to become not only a skilled performer but a leader who embodies FEU’s core values—Fortitude, Excellence, and Uprightness. 

A Home for Talents to Grow 

Ronieth’s journey is a testament to how FEU nurtures holistic student development. Through the support of the FEU Center for the Arts (FCA) and organizations like the FDC, students like her are empowered to balance their academic journey with their artistic passions. The FCA fosters an environment where ambition in the sciences can go hand-in-hand with expression in the arts. 

Her list of accomplishments is proof: from helping FDC win 2nd place in the 2025 World of Dance Philippines, to receiving the Best Performance Award at WiFiBody PH 2024, and being part of the championship-winning team in the 2024 Dance Supremacy Queens’ Division. Just this year, she represented FEU and the Philippines in SEA Choreolab Malaysia 2025, where she was selected as one of 14 finalists from 41 entries across Southeast Asia. 

More Than a Dancer 

But Ronieth’s excellence extends far beyond the dance floor. She is also a passionate educator and advocate for youth and faith. She volunteers to teach dance to children in her neighborhood, serves in Radio Veritas 846 through its Gabay sa Bibliya program, and is the voice behind “Grow with God,” a spiritually driven podcast now with 17 episodes. 

A natural storyteller, Ronieth has also authored and published two inspirational books, further proving her ability to connect with others through words and wisdom. Her creative pursuits are rooted not just in performance, but in purpose—and it is this rare blend of talent, discipline, and service that makes her stand out. 

Through her many platforms, Ronieth uses her voice, art, and writing to uplift, inspire, and lead—a perfect reflection of the legacy left by Dr. Lourdes R. Montinola, FEU’s Chairperson Emeritus and a lifelong advocate of the arts. 

Celebrating the FEU Spirit 

The Dr. Lourdes R. Montinola Excellence in Art and Culture Award is more than a medal—it is a symbol of FEU’s commitment to shaping graduates who are not only intelligent but inspired, not only skilled but socially responsible. With her achievements, character, and contribution to the university’s cultural legacy, Ronieth Dayao stands as a shining example of that mission fulfilled. 

As FEU continues to champion a culture of academic and artistic excellence, Ronieth’s story serves as both a celebration and a challenge: to keep striving, to keep creating, and to keep growing—not just for oneself, but for the greater good.