Gene Michael M. Atanacio was born and lives in Quezon City. He graduated with a Master of Philippine Studies from the University of the Philippines and a Bachelor of Arts, Major in History from De la Salle University. Atanancio also took a Certificate for Teaching Program at Philippine Normal University and is a Licensed Professional Teacher. He is a Knight of the Knights of the Order of Rizal.

Description and symbolism:

The torch and engrailed central band reflects the Armiger’s occupation as a researcher, historian and professor. The arrangement looks as if the torch is lighting the band, as seen in the engrailed borders. The torch is also a common symbol for education; the Armiger took up his Certificate in Teaching from the Philippine Normal University, which depicts a torch in its logo.

The colored stars reflect the educational background and affiliations of the Armiger under various institutions: green from the Lasallian Brothers, and red from the Claretians; both are also colors from the University of the Philippines. The stars also recall the Armiger’s motto.

The scroll also evokes the Armiger’s occupations, particularly as a historian. This is also an attribute of St. Athanasius, who wrote several works in defense of the faith against the Arian heresy; the surname of the Armiger, Atanacio, was possibly derived after the saint.

Blue is the favored color of the Armiger, and is also the color of two institutions related to the him: Philippine Normal University and the Claret School of Quezon City.

The gold sword alludes to the bearer’s given name: gold for Eugene, which means “noble”, and the sword for Michael, named after St. Michael the Archangel.

In this emblazonment, the medallion of the Knights of Rizal represents the Armiger’s rank as a knight of the first degree.

Blazon: Shield: Azure a pale engrailed Argent semy of stars Vert and Gules, overall in pale a torch enflamed between a scroll and a sword, all Or.

Motto: Per aspera ad astra (“Through hardships to the stars”).

Assumed/granting authority: Assumed, June 10, 2023. Registered, Philippine Armorial, September 21, 2024.

Image and information submitted by the Armiger.