La Consolacion College Bacolod marked a significant milestone on March 12, 2025, celebrating its 106th Founding Anniversary with a Thanksgiving Mass and a Service Recognition Ceremony at the LCCB Auditorium. This annual event paid tribute to faculty and staff whose years of dedicated service have contributed to the institution’s mission of transforming lives through Augustinian education. The day began with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass at 8:00 AM, followed by the Service Recognition Ceremony at 10:30 AM, attended by school administrators, faculty, staff, retirees, students, and distinguished guests.
Sr. Flolyn S. Catungal, OSA, School President, delivered an inspiring message, reflecting on the commitment and perseverance of the honorees. She posed an important question to them: “What has kept you going despite the many trials and challenges we have encountered as a community?” She emphasized that true service goes beyond the number of years spent in an institution—it is about making a difference, shaping lives, and finding meaning in one’s work. She further acknowledged the challenges faced by educators and staff, likening their journey to the broader struggles of the nation. Yet, she affirmed that standing firm in one’s vocation, despite difficulties, is what truly matters.
Representing the awardees and retirees, Mrs. Cecilia P. Del Rosario, a Silver Jubilarian, delivered a heartfelt response. She spoke about the essence of service, emphasizing that it is not merely a duty but a calling—one that requires sacrifice, perseverance, and love for the community. “Service is not measured by the number of years we have spent in this institution, but by the light we bring to others and the values we pass on to future generations,” she said. She reflected on the challenges that come with the profession but also highlighted its greatest reward—seeing students grow, succeed, and make a difference in the world. “To my students, past and present, you are the reason I stand here today. Your curiosity, perseverance, and dreams fuel our passion as educators. Seeing you learn, grow, and make a difference in the world is the greatest reward of all.”
A particularly moving speech came from Dr. Romela R. Aujero, one of the retirees, who shared her 43-year journey as an educator, guidance counselor, and human resource development officer. She recounted how she once considered leaving the institution for other opportunities, but her deep emotional connection to LCC Bacolod kept her rooted. “I was drawn to the promise of financial stability and career advancements elsewhere. But I realized that my heart was here. I had built something beyond a career—I had built a home, a family, and a purpose,” she shared. Dr. Aujero reflected on the transformative power of service, describing how helping students navigate their personal and academic challenges shaped her as an educator. “One of the greatest realizations I had in my field is that people are at the heart of every institution. Every encounter—whether with a student, a colleague, or a mentor—is an opportunity to create a positive impact.” She concluded with a message of gratitude to the Augustinian Sisters, the faculty, and her family, expressing her deep appreciation for their support, patience, and guidance throughout her career.
The Service Recognition Ceremony honored faculty and staff members who have dedicated five, ten, fifteen, twenty, thirty, and thirty-five years to LCC Bacolod. The institution also paid special tribute to retirees and special honorees for their unwavering dedication. Among the honorees were Maria Girlie S. Abad, Amelia P. Amahit, Romela R. Aujero, Joselito M. Diaz, and Carmen C. Menes, who were recognized as retirees, while Ramon P. Ponce de Leon and Ligaya R. Villafuerte were named special honorees.
The ceremony ended with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude. As LCC Bacolod continues to transform lives and define dreams, the honorees serve as a reminder that true success is measured not in years, but in the positive impact we leave behind. “It is not the length of service that makes us great—it is the impact we leave behind,” Mrs. Del Rosario said in her closing statement. As the 106th Founding Anniversary came to a close, the entire LCC Bacolod community stood united in the shared mission of faith, service, and education, looking forward to another century of excellence. #RBN