Xavier University administrators, faculty, formators, and staff shared a group photo with
Maintenance and Security Personnel during the PinasXUhan 2024.
The Christmas season is not only a time for joy and celebration, it is also an opportune moment to express gratitude to those who contribute significantly to the rhythm of our daily lives in the university. At Xavier University, this recognition extends to the dedicated maintenance and security personnel working tirelessly on the downtown and uptown campuses.
Jenwayne Bulahan, speaking on behalf of the security personnel, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful generosity shown by the XU community through the PinasXUhan 2024. Rodelie Tabada, a dedicated maintenance staff member assigned at the MAGIS Building for twelve years, shared her appreciation for the university's generous effort in recognizing the contributions of maintenance personnel. Meanwhile, Fernando Sumalinog, a member of XU's Physical Plant Office, conveyed his gratitude for the opportunity to work at the university for fifteen years. In his own words, “nagpasalamat ko sa kahigayonan nga nahatagan ko ug trabaho dri sulod sa university sa kinse ka tuig, salamat kaayo sa pagdawat kanako dri, ug mapasalamaton ako sa XU Community sa ilang gasa nga gihatag ngadto kanatong tanan” (I am thankful for the chance to work here at the university for the past fifteen years. Thank you very much for welcoming me, and I am grateful to the XU community for the gifts given to all of us.)
Fr Mars Tan SJ, leads the distribution of gift packs alongside Xavier University
administrators, faculty, formators, and staff during the PinasXUhan 2024.
Engr Dexter Lo, Vice President for Social Development, began the program by acknowledging the offices that spearheaded the event: the Social Involvement and Advocacy Program (SIAP) of the Social Development Office, the Office of the Vice President for Administration, and the Human Resource Office. He also expressed his sincere gratitude to the entire XU community who generously contributed to the success of the activity.
Dr Juliet Dalagan, Vice President for Higher Education, highlighted the crucial role of security and maintenance personnel in the success of higher education. “Mapasalamaton ang among kasing-kasing sa inyong tanan” (We are deeply grateful to each and every one of you) she said, “kay dili mahitabo ang kalambuan sa higher education kung wala ang inyong tabang” (because the advancement of higher education would not be possible without your invaluable support.) Dr Dalagan encouraged everyone to remain hopeful and to continue working together towards the continued success of the university.
Dr Pamela Pajente, Vice President for Basic Education, emphasized the crucial "behind-the-scenes" role of the university's trusted personnel in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the institution. She stated, “Kamo ang behind the scenes sa success sa unibersidad us sa uban pang offices ug campuses: security guards have kept the school safe and the maintenance staff has kept our surroundings clean. Daghang salamat sa inyong serbisyo” (You are the unsung heroes behind the success of the university, along with other offices and campuses. Our security guards maintain a safe and secure environment, while our maintenance staff diligently keep our surroundings clean. Thank you for your service) Dr Pajente also expressed her sincere gratitude for their significant contributions. Meanwhile, Mr Rotciv Kho, representing Vice President for Administration Engr Lawrence Sanchez conveyed Christmas greetings and expressed deep gratitude for their dedicated service.
Fr Frank Savadera, SJ, Vice President for Mission and Ministry, acknowledged the indispensable contributions of both maintenance and security personnel to the success of various student activities, including the XU Festival Days and Intramurals. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “Kami sa Mission and Ministry nagpasalamat kami kaninyo sa tanang student activities naa mo, sa XUFD, sa intramurals, sa retreats ug daghan pa, behind the scenes naa kamo pirmi para mu tabang” (On behalf of the Mission and Ministry, we thank you for your unwavering support in all our student activities, such as the XUFD, Intramurals, retreats, and many more. You are always there behind the scenes, ready to lend a helping hand.” Fr Savadera shared his heartfelt Christmas wishes, saying, “ang akong damgo ug panghuinaut sa pasko, unta tanan naay pagkaon sa lamesa, sa simple nga pamaagi unta naka tabang kami kaninyo pinaagi niining pinaskohan alang kaninyo” (My hope and prayer this Christmas is that everyone has food on their tables. In a simple way, I hope this Christmas gift can contribute to your family).
Fr Mars P Tan, SJ, chats with security personnel and maintenance staff as they line up to receive their gift packs.
Fr Mars Tan, SJ, President of Xavier University, expressed his joy at witnessing the sense of community fostered by PinasXUhan 2024. He remarked, “Nalipay ko kay naay atong i-ani nga activity kay dili lang tungod makahatag kami ug regalo sa inyo, apil na usab ang higayon nga maka istorya kami kaninyo aron makapasalamat mi personal sa inyong tanan.” (I am truly delighted by the fruits of this event. It's not just about providing gifts; it's also about creating an opportunity for us to personally thank each and every one of you.) He further emphasized how the act of giving brings joy to both the giver and the receiver, stating, “Nalipay kamo nga nakadawat gikan kanamo, ug malipayon kami nga makahatag usab kaninyo”. (Your happiness in receiving these gifts fills us with joy as well.)
A total of 355 Noche Buena packs were distributed to workers from the following agencies: DMSI, Envisage Security, Right 8 Security, Sagittarius, Helpmate, Padla, and Versatile. Fr Mars P Tan, SJ, University President, led the distribution alongside Fr Frank Savadera, SJ, Vice President for Mission and Ministry; Dr Juliet Dalagan, Vice President for Higher Education; Dr Pamela Pajente, Vice President for Basic Education; and Engr Dexter Lo, Vice President for Social Development. Faculty and formators were also present during the activity.
Dr Juliet Dalagan, VP for Higher Education, assists in the distribution of gift packs during the PinasXUhan 2024.
In the quiet dedication of Xavier University's maintenance and security staff, the true meaning of Christmas shines brightly. Their selfless service, and their tireless commitment to ensuring the well-being of our community, embody the spirit of generosity and solidarity. These unsung heroes illuminate our path with their kindness, reminding us that the magic of Christmas resides in the compassionate hearts that beat throughout the year.
**Xavier University extends its heartfelt gratitude to the entire community for generously sharing in the PinasXUhan 2024: Xavier University Christmas for Others. Special thanks are also extended to the Office of the President, Mission and Ministry Cluster, Social Development Cluster, Administration Cluster, Higher Education Cluster, Basic Education Cluster, Finance and Treasurer’s Office, Alumni Relations Office, Human Resource Office, and the University Church.