Malou Tiquia Biography
Maria Lourdes Navarro Tiquia, often called Malou, stands out as a key figure in Philippine politics, education, and business. She has built a career that spans over 37 years, touching public service, academia, and private consulting. As the founder of PUBLiCUS Asia Inc., she has shaped political campaigns and public opinion through surveys and strategies. Her work as a university president and media commentator has also influenced many. Born in the 1960s, Malou grew up during a time of big changes in the Philippines, like the end of the Marcos era. This background fueled her passion for governance and reform.
Malou’s story shows how education and hard work can lead to impact. She earned degrees from top schools in the Philippines and the United States. Her roles have included advising leaders, teaching students, and analyzing news on TV. Today, in 2025, she continues to write columns and share insights on social media. This biography explores her life to help readers understand her contributions to Philippine society. It covers her early years, education, career steps, key achievements, personal side, and more. By learning about Malou, people can see how one person can bridge government, business, and learning for the better.
Her journey inspires those interested in politics or public service. For example, she was the first Filipino to graduate from George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political Management in 2002. This milestone opened doors for her in lobbying and campaigns. Malou’s non-partisan approach keeps her focused on facts and ethics. In a field often full of debates, she promotes clear thinking and data-driven choices. Readers will find her path educational, showing the value of lifelong learning and service.
Malou Tiquia Early Life and Family Background
Malou Tiquia was born in the 1960s in the Philippines. Her full name is Maria Lourdes Navarro Tiquia, with Navarro as her middle name and Tiquia as her family name. She grew up in Manila during a period of political shifts. The country faced challenges under President Ferdinand Marcos, which lasted until her college years in the mid1980s. This time shaped her views on democracy and public service.
Her family background emphasized resilience and values tied to public good. Though details on her parents or siblings are not widely shared, her upbringing in Manila fostered an interest in social issues. The postEDSA Revolution era in 1986, after the People Power movement, sparked her passion for reform. She joined government work right after college in 1985, showing early commitment to national progress.
Malou’s early experiences included witnessing the transition from dictatorship to democracy under President Corazon Aquino. This environment taught her about the importance of ethics in leadership. Her family likely supported education as a path to opportunity, given her later academic success. By focusing on studies amid national changes, she built a foundation for her future roles in politics and education.
Malou Tiquia Education
Malou Tiquia’s education laid the groundwork for her diverse career. She started at the University of the Philippines Diliman, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1985. This degree introduced her to concepts of governance and policy. During her time at UP, she engaged with campus discussions on national issues, honing her analytical skills.
She continued at UP, completing a Master of Public Administration in 1990. This program focused on managing public sectors and implementing policies. It prepared her for realworld roles in government. Her studies emphasized practical approaches to administration, which she later applied in her jobs.
In 2001, Malou pursued further studies abroad. She earned a Master of Arts in Political Management from George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political Management. Often called the “West Point of Politics,” this school trained her in campaigning, lobbying, and strategy. She became the first Filipino to graduate from this program in 2002. This achievement set her apart in the Philippine political scene.
Currently, Malou is a PhD candidate in Crisis Management at the University of the Philippines. Her ongoing studies show a commitment to learning. Throughout her education, mentors at UP and GWU influenced her. For instance, UP’s National College of Public Administration and Governance provided a strong base in local issues. These degrees equipped her with tools for teaching, consulting, and leading.
Her academic path highlights the blend of local and global knowledge. By studying in the US, she brought back ideas on ethical lobbying and data use in politics. This education not only boosted her career but also allowed her to mentor others in similar fields.
Career
Malou Tiquia’s career began in public service and grew into business and education leadership. In 1985, she joined the Environmental Management Bureau at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. There, she worked on pollution policies during the early Aquino administration. This role introduced her to environmental advocacy and government operations.
In 1987, she served as staff to Senator Rene Saguisag. She contributed to human rights legislation in the postMarcos era. This experience deepened her understanding of lawmaking. By 1990, she moved to the Office of the President under Corazon Aquino, aiding in national transitions.
In 1992, Malou became Chief of Staff to Congressman Roilo Golez. She managed agendas on national security and other issues. These early positions built her network in politics.
From 1989 to 1998, she lectured at De La Salle University and the University of the Philippines. She taught public administration and political science. In 1999, she joined UP’s National College of Public Administration and Governance as fulltime faculty until 2003. Later, in 2003, she was an adjunct professor at Ateneo de Manila University. Her teaching focused on practical skills, like simulations in lobbying.
In 2003, Malou founded PUBLiCUS Asia Inc. with Lilibeth Amatong. As CEO for 22 years, she led the firm in lobbying, competitive intelligence, and campaigns. The company handles government relations and nonpartisan surveys like PAHAYAG, polling over 1,500 people on voter trends. Since 1995, she has designed campaigns at international, national, and local levels. Now, as Founder and Chairperson, she oversees strategies that influence policy.
Malou’s media career includes hosting “Agenda” on CNN Philippines. She analyzed electoral dynamics and policy debates. She also appears on shows like “Brunch” on One News. As a columnist for The Manila Times, she writes on topics like election tensions and voter behavior.
From 2019 to 2021, she served as the 15th President of Universidad de Manila. She introduced courses in cyber security, data science, and supply chain management. In 2021, she handed over to Dr. Felma CarlosTria, who was reelected in 2025. This role focused on reforming education for public service.
Her career shows versatility, from government aide to business leader. Malou’s work in competitive intelligence has revolutionized Philippine campaigns with datadriven methods. She advocates for ethical practices in a competitive field. By 2025, her influence extends to mentoring and public commentary, making her a trusted voice in politics.
Malou Tiquia Achievements
Malou Tiquia has many accomplishments that highlight her impact. One key milestone is being the first Filipino to graduate from George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political Management in 2002. This opened paths in political strategy.
She founded PUBLiCUS Asia in 2003, growing it into a leading firm for lobbying and surveys. The PAHAYAG surveys provide independent insights on elections, like the 2021 poll with 1,500 respondents.
As President of Universidad de Manila from 2019 to 2021, she added programs in cyber security and data science, boosting the school’s focus on modern skills. Her leadership improved community outreach during tough times like COVID19.
Malou has mentored generations through teaching at UP, DLSU, and Ateneo. Many alumni now hold public roles. She has managed campaigns since 1995, influencing outcomes ethically.
Her media work, including hosting CNN’s “Agenda,” brought clear analysis to viewers. As a columnist, she addresses current issues in The Manila Times.
Malou spoke at events like the Asia Climate Partners Conference in 2022, sharing on policy. Her 37 years of experience span sectors, earning respect. She promotes women’s roles in politics and independent polling.
Though specific awards are not listed widely, her legacy includes empowering voices in governance. By 2025, her work continues to shape Philippine democracy.
Malou Tiquia Personal Life
Malou Tiquia keeps her personal life private, focusing on professional work. She was born in the 1960s and grew up in Manila. Public records show no details on a spouse or children, reflecting her lowprofile approach.
She identifies as proPhilippines and not a diehard supporter of any group, like DDS. Her principles guide her nonpartisan stance. On social media, like X at @maltiq, she shares insights but rarely personal stories.
Malou balances career with values of resilience and ethics, drawn from her upbringing. Her focus remains on service, mentoring, and analysis rather than personal spotlight.
Conclusion
Malou Tiquia’s life offers lessons in dedication and impact. From her education at UP and GWU to founding PUBLiCUS and leading UdM, she has bridged politics, education, and business. Her 37 years of work promote ethical strategies and informed choices in the Philippines.
By staying nonpartisan, Malou inspires future leaders to prioritize facts over bias. In 2025, her columns and surveys continue to educate the public. Her story encourages civic participation and lifelong learning.
FAQs
What is Malou Tiquia’s full name?
Her full name is Maria Lourdes Navarro Tiquia.
When was Malou Tiquia born?
She was born in the 1960s.
What degrees does Malou Tiquia hold?
She has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from UP (1985), Master of Public Administration from UP (1990), Master of Arts in Political Management from GWU (2002), and is a PhD candidate in Crisis Management at UP.
What is PUBLiCUS Asia?
It is a firm she founded in 2003 for lobbying, campaigns, and surveys like PAHAYAG.
What was her role at Universidad de Manila?
She served as president from 2019 to 2021, introducing new courses.
What media roles has she had?
She hosted “Agenda” on CNN Philippines and writes for The Manila Times.
What are her key achievements?
Being the first Filipino GWU GSPM graduate, founding PUBLiCUS, and reforming UdM education.
Is Malou Tiquia involved in politics today?
Yes, through consulting, writing, and analysis on current events.