On the Feast of St. Benedict, July 11, 2025, San Beda College Alabang gathered in solemnity and celebration to recognize members of its community whose dedication and excellence have made a lasting impact on the institution. Held after the Eucharistic celebration, the Academic Convocation and Service Awards Ceremony 2025 honored educators, administrators, staff, and retirees for their enduring service, personal milestones, and contributions to the Bedan mission. The ceremony was led by Rev. Fr. Gerardo Ma. De Villa, OSB, Rector, together with Fr. Remember Tumbali, OSB (Director of Finance), Fr. Leander Mary Angngad, OSB (Director of Services), and school administrators.
In his message, Fr. Rector inspired the community with a powerful message centered on faith, excellence, and transformation:
“San Beda is a living, breathing community committed to education grounded in faith and dedicated to the service of others. Excellence is a journey from glory to glory,” he said, reminding everyone that the pursuit of excellence is not a destination but a daily act of commitment.
The program recognized faculty and staff from the Basic Education Department, who have achieved remarkable academic and professional milestones. Twenty-three (23) members of the Integrated Basic Education Department (IBED) were conferred the St. Benedict Medal and a certificate of recognition for accomplishments such as completing graduate degrees, passing licensure examinations, and earning academic citations.
In her remarks, Dr. Jeana A. Ariola, newly appointed Director of Basic Education, emphasized the value of educators and staff who go beyond the call of duty.
“Here at SBCA, we believe that quality education begins with our dedicated and inspiring teachers,” she shared.
“Every degree earned, research completed, and recognition received tells a story of relentless dedication in shaping the lives of our learners.”
From the Tertiary and Graduate Education, 26 faculty and staff were also honored for their achievements in their respective fields, research, and leadership. In his address, Atty. Juan Ruffo D. Chong, newly appointed Director for Tertiary and Graduate Education, echoed the Rector’s theme of continual growth.
“We strive to be better today than yesterday,” he said.
“Our individual achievements ripple outward—to our students, to our families, to the entire community. But above all, we pause and give thanks to God. Apart from Him, we are nothing.”
A central part of the convocation was the Bedan Service Awards, which honored individuals who have devoted a significant portion of their lives to the institution. In a heartfelt address, Dr. Ryan M. Sicat, newly appointed Human Resource Manager, acknowledged the vital role of SBCA’s lay collaborators.
“The steadfast commitment, quiet sacrifices, and enduring loyalty of our employees are the foundation of our institutional identity,” he shared.
A total of 50 awardees were recognized including those who have reached 10 to 40 years in service, as well as our beloved Bedan retirees who were celebrated for their decades of faithful service.
The ceremony was not merely a presentation of awards, but a powerful reaffirmation of San Beda Alabang’s mission: to be a “school of the Lord’s service”, where every contribution—whether in teaching, administration, or silent daily labor—is offered for the greater glory of God.
With a sense of gratitude and renewed purpose, the Bedan community closed the celebration ready to continue its journey of faith, knowledge, and virtue—united in the spirit of Ora et Labora.
Ut in omnibus glorificetur Deus.
(That in all things, God may be glorified)
(This article was adapted in part from a feature by Luis Gabriel R. Santiago, originally published in The Bedan Herlad)
