Prexy urges gratitude, care as University honors employees in 41st Araw ng Parangal
Date Posted: February 19, 2025 at 10:39 AM
Adamson University recently celebrated the 41st Araw ng Parangal, a prestigious event dedicated to recognizing the unwavering commitment and service of its faculty and staff, this February 18 at the University Theatre.
The gathering was filled with gratitude and inspiration, as University President Fr. Daniel Franklin Pilario, CM, delivered a heartfelt message honoring the awardees and retirees who have dedicated years of service to the institution.
In his speech, Fr. Pilario expressed deep appreciation for the employees' dedication, emphasizing that their hard work and sacrifices extend beyond certificates or gold rings
“Daghang salamat sa inyong pamamalagi sa Adamson University. Daghang salamat sa pagturing dito bilang inyong ikalawang tahanan. Daghang salamat sa inyong pagmamahal at paglilingkod sa ating mga estudyante at mga kawani,” he said, underscoring the significance of their contributions.
He reflected on the profound meaning of gratitude, tracing the word salamat to its deeper linguistic and cultural roots.
“When you tell someone salamat, you do not only thank her or him for the favor that you received; you wish him or her peace, good health, and well-being,” he explained.
Fr. Pilario also introduced the Cebuano word padayon, meaning to continue, as a message of encouragement for the Adamson community.
"When the Visayans tell each other “padayon”, they mean “keep on with life”, “do not get discouraged”, “do not surrender”, “continue with the work that you are doing because you are doing well”.
The highlight of the event was the awarding of long-tenured employees and recognition of retirees, who were assured that Adamson University would always remain their home.
“You are always welcome to this house which has been your home for the precious years of your life,” Fr. Pilario said, encouraging the retirees relive their memories, rekindle friendships, and return to their “sweet home” whenever they wished.
Beyond celebrating dedication and service, Fr. Pilario also took the opportunity to address pressing social issues. He announced the suspension of classes on February 25, anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, after the government declared it a "special working holiday", as a statement of resistance against historical revisionism and social injustice.
He also called on the Adamson community to take part in a symbolic gathering on February 24, encouraging collective action for justice and truth.
The former Saint Vincent School of Theology Dean and St. John’s University New York Vincentian Chair for Social Justice then asked the community to “care for one another.”
“When someone finds that life is burdensome, hug him or her and say, I am with you. Padayon sa imong kinabuhi (Keep your life despite the trials and difficulties that life may bring). Keep on, you can make it. Wish each other goodness and safety, wellness and peace. This is the way of hope,” he said.
To conclude, Fr. Pilario left the audience with a powerful reminder of Adamson’s Vincentian mission that would serve as both an inspiration and a challenge for Adamsonians to continue:
"As we take care of the wounded in the field, as we fight for justice in the streets, as we proclaim the Good News to the poor, let us also bathe each others’ legs, bind our wounds together."
