By Mikee Natinga Norico

Congratulations Dr. Jasper Ruby V. Vijar for being named to Forbes Asia’s prestigious 30 Under 30 list for 2025 under the Social Impact category, recognizing your outstanding work in youth health advocacy—CPU is so proud of you!

Central Philippine University (CPU) proudly celebrates the recognition of its alumnus, Dr. Jasper Ruby V. Vijar, RMT, who has been named to Forbes Asia’s 30 Under 30 list for 2025 under the Social Impact category.

Selected from among thousands of nominees across the continent, Dr. Vijar is one of 300 outstanding young leaders and innovators making their mark in various fields throughout Asia.

A licensed medical technologist and practicing physician, Dr. Vijar is the co-founder of Team Dugong Bughaw, an Iloilo City-based, youth-led nonprofit organization focused on reproductive health and HIV/AIDS education. Since its founding in 2015, the organization has provided free HIV testing, condom distribution, and reproductive health education to underserved communities in Aklan, Capiz, and Iloilo—with support from organizations such as USAID and Gilead Sciences.

Dr. Jasper Ruby V. Vijar shares his expertise with community members, inspiring collective efforts toward healthier and more informed youth.

At only 28 years old, Vijar’s work was recognized in the “Social Impact” category, highlighting the power of youth-led, community-centered healthcare. “This wasn’t just a personal achievement—it was a victory for the Filipino youth,” he shared in an interview. “Being recognized for our Iloilo City-based organization proves that good practices from local communities can resonate across the continent.”

A Centralian through and through, Dr. Vijar’s journey with CPU began in kindergarten and continued through his graduation from the CPU College of Medicine in 2022. During his student years, he served as Governor of the Medicine Student Council, where he spearheaded the drafting of the council’s Constitution and Bylaws. Under his leadership, the council earned a Gold Seal of Good Governance from the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges Student Network for its exemplary efforts during the pandemic.

For Vijar, his time at CPU shaped both his values and aspirations. “When I was a medical student at CPU, I didn’t subscribe to the idea that becoming a mabuti at magaling na doktor meant confining myself to the classroom. I wanted to put heart into what I do,” he recalled. “So on weekends, I would spend Saturdays doing community work and Sundays studying for the week ahead. I also had the chance to serve as the governor of our student council during the pandemic. While I initially thought it would be a limiting experience, our dedicated team was still able to make an impact on both fellow students and the communities we served.”

He emphasized that creating sustainable impact begins with empathy and community partnership. “Health programs like what we do at Team Dugong Bughaw become truly sustainable when local government units adopt and institutionalize them through policy,” he said, referring to their ongoing efforts to embed youth health initiatives into LGU health strategies.

When asked what message he would share with current CPU students, Vijar offered words of inspiration: “Creating social impact starts with observing—by opening our eyes to reality and our ears to the struggles of the community. CPU is a great place to be exposed to opportunities to serve. You just have to take the first step.”

He also emphasized the university’s role in shaping his mission: “Central molded me into who I am today, thanks to a community grounded in values and always willing to lend a hand. I hope we continue this culture of support, because who knows—the next Forbes 30 Under 30 awardee might be another Centralian.”

Dr. Vijar extends his gratitude to the mentors and friends who stood by him: “To the young people who dream of shaping the world: our time is now—we are the future. Don’t be afraid to take up space. Your voice matters in the rooms where decisions are made.”

As CPU continues to mold future professionals grounded in service and compassion, Dr. Jasper Ruby V. Vijar stands as a shining example of what Centralians can accomplish—with heart, vision, and dedication.

To view the full list of the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia Class of 2025, visit: https://www.forbes.com/30-under-30/2025/asia/