Building a Career

Unpingco began his journey at UOG in 1990 when he joined the maintenance department. After a few years, there was an opening at the post office, and Unpingco made the transfer. His decision was influenced by a loved one who also worked in postal services.

“I was drawn to the position because my mom was the manager of the Marbo Post Office at Andy South in Andersen Airforce Base. I helped her with window operations after school and on weekends,” Unpingco explains.

The early days of Unpingco’s own postal career at UOG were a mix of anticipation and learning. He admits he was anxious at first, but after becoming familiar with the daily operations, he settled well into his role. In addition to helping customers, Unpingco was entrusted with other responsibilities, such as completing afternoon deliveries, auditing department postage charges, and training student workers on new procedures and managing their timesheets.

“I loved the atmosphere,” Unpingco says. “I enjoyed meeting new faces and assisting my patrons with guidance on the best cost-saving services available to our community.”

Lasting Connections

Part of Unpingco’s commitment to his work included building rapport with the people that he provided services to. His customers were primarily UOG students, faculty, and staff, many of whom would just stop by the post office to see how he was doing. Over time, these everyday encounters evolved into enduring friendships and relationships that crossed departmental lines and job titles.

LaVonne Guerrero-Meno, an administrative officer at the Micronesian Area Research Center, describes Unpingco as “a silent hero at UOG,” one who is always willing to help others with a smile.

“Ed will assure you that your parcel will go out in a timely manner. He'll go to the main post office facility to drop it or will take time out from his busy window schedule to research where your mail is in the world,” Guerrero-Meno shares. “He is so optimistic about life and work. It is truly a sad time to see Ed retire, but he deserves it.”

She isn’t alone in her appreciation. Guerrero-Meno’s sentiments on Unpingco’s impact are echoed by Roland San Nicolas, associate professor and librarian at the RFK Library.

“I have a great day when I check the mail as I’m always greeted with an enthusiastic smile and an ecstatic ‘Håfa Adai’ from Ed. He never fails to ask about my family before I leave and always provides me with guidance on my mailing needs. The University is going to miss him,” says San Nicolas.  

For Ed, it was never just about postage—it was about people.

A Final Message

For Unpingco, the everyday interactions—helping customers navigate the complexities of shipping options, finding affordable solutions, or simply offering a friendly word—have brought him a lot of fulfillment during his time at UOG. The trust and gratitude he received from customers and the University Community were, to him, the most meaningful rewards.

“I’ll miss my friends, my extended family, and being able to assist customers, whether that meant taping up a letter or reinforcing a parcel. Most of all, I’ll miss the smiles and acknowledgment of satisfied customers,” he says.

Entering his retirement, Unpingco sends one final message to his UOG family: “Thanks for the memories, and Biba UOG!”