Professor Nuqui graduated as valedictorian of UP High School in 1961 and earned his BS in Mathematics, cum laude, from the University of the Philippines Diliman in 1965. He obtained his master’s degree in operations research from Stanford University with support from the Rockefeller Foundation and pursued doctoral studies in the same field at Yale University. Upon returning to UP Diliman, he pioneered the fields of operations research and mathematical programming in the then Mathematics Department, which later became integral components of the Institute’s research agenda.

For generations of students from the 1970s through the 1990s, “Sir Bong” was an unforgettable mentor whose lectures were infused with precision, enthusiasm, and humor. He possessed a rare gift for making complex subjects accessible, inspiring countless students to pursue careers in optimization, actuarial science, and other fields of applied mathematics. Beyond the classroom, colleagues fondly remember his quick wit, practical jokes, booming voice, and warm presence.

Professor Nuqui also rendered distinguished service to the University in various leadership positions. At only 33 years old, he was appointed Chair of the Mathematics Department, serving from 1979 to 1982. He later held key positions, including Assistant to the UP President, Director of both the UP Computer Center and the UP Management Information System, and UP Vice President for Planning and Finance.