ILOILO — In a heartwarming celebration of generosity and community spirit, Panay News and the Daniel G. Fajardo Foundation, Inc. (DGFFI) successfully held their annual gift-giving event on December 4 to 5.
The initiative, part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, brought joy to nearly 600 children across ten Child Development Centers (CDCs) in Pavia, spreading festive warmth throughout the town this holiday season. The event also marked the 45th anniversary of Panay News, a milestone reflecting the publication’s decades-long commitment to accurate journalism and community engagement in Western Visayas.
A festive atmosphere of giving
The first day of the gift-giving on December 4 saw children from CDCs in barangays Purok 1, Purok 2, Purok 3, Purok 4, Mali-ao, Aganan, Ungka II, and Jibao-an eagerly receiving red gift bags filled with treats. Laughter, excitement, and bright smiles filled the centers, as the act of giving embodied the season’s spirit of compassion.
On December 5, the initiative continued in barangays Anilao and Cabugao Sur. Families gathered with hearts full of gratitude, enjoying the joyous atmosphere created by the thoughtful distribution of gifts.
A mission of unity and kindness
Leading the initiative was Pavia’s Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Member Daniel “Dan” Fajardo II, who, together with his wife, Leah Lyn Fajardo, marketing manager of Panay News, and the dedicated Panay News team, coordinated the event to highlight the true essence of the holiday season — a time of sharing, love, and togetherness.
“Christmas is not just about the presents; it’s about bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging,” said SB Member Fajardo. “We aim to remind everyone that the spirit of giving can illuminate our lives, especially in challenging times.”
Daycare and child development worker Nove C. Surial from Poblacion Purok 1 expressed her appreciation: “We are truly grateful for the annual gift-giving of Panay News and SB Dan Fajardo. May this program continue and be blessed to reach more children every year. Thank you very much.”
Arvin J. Mirador, a barangay council member from Jibao-an, echoed the sentiment: “On behalf of the barangay council, we sincerely thank Panay News and SB Dan Fajardo, along with his wife, Ma’am Leah. This event made the children happy and was a big help to our community.”
Parent Mariel Buhayan of Ungka II added, “We are very thankful to Panay News. The children were overwhelmed with gifts and so happy. We hope this continues next year. God bless Panay News.”
Community partnerships and support
The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors and partners, including MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), Sunpride, Liwayway Marketing, Zest O Corporation, Universal Robina Corp., IBC, Jollibee, SM City, Biscocho Haus, Ledi Supermart, Sweettech, Philusa Corporation, Yakult, Coca-Cola, Syl Hermanos Group, Gardenia, The No. 1 Supplier, F. Gurrea, JD Bakeshop, Goldilocks, Dunkin’ Donuts, Lovefeeds, Izeem, Dakasi, Nature Spring, Jhelord Transport Corp., and Petron. Their contributions helped ensure that the children and their families experienced a memorable holiday celebration.
The annual holiday gift-giving initiative by Panay News and DGFFI serves as a luminous reminder that the true magic of Christmas lies in giving and fostering connections through shared experiences, leaving a lasting legacy of goodwill and compassion./PN
