On 25 July 2024, the Cordillera Convention Hall of the Baguio Country Club brimmed with joy and gratitude as Saint Louis University (SLU) celebrated the dedication and hard work of its 181 service awardees and 38 retirees during the much-anticipated “Panangdayaw 2024: A Tribute to the SLU Service Awardees and Retirees.”



The event commenced with a Eucharistic celebration presided by Rev. Fr. Emery Mwako, CICM, setting a tone of thanksgiving and reflection. The SLU Glee Club then filled the hall with pride and patriotism as they performed the National Anthem. This was followed by an inspiring opening number, “Tayong mga Pilipino,” by the CCA Performing Group.




Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, SLU President, then delivered a heartfelt message, emphasizing the importance of service and dedication in building a strong academic community. Fr. Sales expressed the University’s gratitude to the employees whom he dubbed as “heroes of Missio et Excellentia.” He quipped, “On behalf of Saint Louis University, know that we are blissful and blessed to have been your partner in living our Heavenly Father’s gift of work, passion, and vocation. Please accept our deepest gratitude as we wish you more opportunities, furthered happiness, and many more things to be thankful for.”


The presentation of service awards began with the 10-year and 15-year honorees, presented by Fr. Sales and assisted by Atty. Shellah Yzanne P. Merced, SLU Vice President for Administration. The air was filled with applause and admiration as each awardee took the stage, marking a decade or more of commitment to the University.



An intermission followed, featuring the SLU Dance Troupe performing the traditional dance “Lanceros de Tayabas,” captivating the audience with their grace and cultural pride.
The presentation of the 20-year and 25-year service awards was next with Rev. Fr. Sales and SLU VP for Academic Affairs, Felina P. Espique, PhD. The hall resonated with appreciation for these individuals who had dedicated a significant portion of their careers to the university.




The SLU Glee Club returned to the stage for another intermission, performing “Vochong,” showcasing their vocal prowess and musicality.
The event continued with the recognition of the 30-year, 35-year, and 40-year service awardees, presented by Rev. Fr. Sales and assisted by SLU VP for Finance, Roberto M. Arguelles, PhD. The room was filled with awe and respect as these long-serving members of the SLU community were honored for their remarkable dedication.
The SLU Orchestra’s intermission performance of “Let You Break My Heart Again” then added a touch of elegance and sentiment to the event, followed by a beautiful string quartet performance that further enthralled the audience.



A special tribute to the retirees was a highlight of the evening, celebrating their years of service and contributions to the university. Atty. Melchor Rabanes, a retiree and service awardee, and a faculty from the School of Law, delivered a moving response, reflecting on his journey and expressing gratitude for the support and camaraderie he experienced in SLU.
The closing number, “Bayanihan,” performed by the CCA Performing Group, was a fitting end to the program, symbolizing the spirit of unity and cooperation that defines the SLU community. The SLU Hymn echoed through the hall, reinforcing the sense of pride and belonging among the attendees.


Thereafter, Atty. Merced led a toast to the retirees, celebrating their legacy and contributions. The event concluded with a prayer by Fr. Emmanuel Enjang Pranatal, CICM.
As the evening transitioned into a dinner celebration, attendees continued to share stories and express their appreciation for the awardees and retirees. Panangdayaw 2024 was not just a ceremony but a testament to the enduring legacy of service and commitment within the Saint Louis University community and its unwavering dedication to the welfare of its employees. (Article by Rita Mae Lopez, UIO Volunteer)
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