PHOTOS BY AJ PALCULLO
IN A PROFESSION defined by quiet strength, compassion, and dignity, the Panay Association of Registered Embalmers and Mortuary Owners (PAREMO) marked a historic milestone as it formally inducted its first set of officers and executive team on the afternoon of January 21, 2026.
Held at the MO2 Westown Hotel in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, the inaugural induction ceremony gathered funeral home owners, registered embalmers, and industry professionals from across Panay Island. More than a ceremonial transition of leadership, the event symbolized unity—bringing together practitioners long separated by geography but bound by a shared calling to serve families during life’s most difficult moments.
The formation of PAREMO stands as a collective affirmation of the profession’s commitment to ethical practice, professional growth, and the preservation of dignity in death care services. For many in attendance, the gathering represented a long-awaited opportunity to strengthen solidarity within an often-overlooked yet essential sector.
Leading the ceremony was newly elected PAREMO President Fely Gegato-Abecia, whose vision centers on unity, ethical standards, and professional development. In her opening address, she expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her and the newly inducted officers, emphasizing collaboration as the foundation of the association’s mission.
“This moment is historic. For the first time, embalmers from across Panay Island have come together under one organized body—bound not only by profession, but by a shared commitment to integrity, competence, and service,” Gegato-Abecia said. “I accept this position not as a privilege, but as a solemn duty.”
She further stressed that through PAREMO, embalmers and mortuary owners are no longer isolated practitioners but a unified body capable of advocating for professionalism and ethical standards in the industry.
The oathtaking ceremony was officiated by Iloilo City’s Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu, whose presence underscored the support of the local government for the association’s objectives. In her message, Mayor Treñas-Chu lauded the members’ dedication and collective leadership, noting their vital role in uplifting industry standards while extending compassion to grieving families.
“Your dedication, experience, and collective leadership strengthen our efforts to promote ethical practice and compassionate service across Panay Island,” the mayor said, encouraging the officers to continue serving with integrity and pride.
Adding depth and significance to the occasion were distinguished guests from various government agencies and institutions. Among them were Iloilo Provincial Board Member Rolex T. Suplico; Engr. Joemer F. Fayo, Officer-in-Charge for Environmental and Occupational Health of the Department of Health (DOH) Region VI; Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region VI OIC Regional Director Joselito G. Estember; DENR-6 Environmental Management Bureau Regional Director Atty. Ramar Neil V. Pascua, represented by Head Executive Assistant Cliff Jefferson Escobar; and Dr. May Ann Soliva-Sta. Lucia, MD, chief of the DOH-6 Local Health Support Division.
As the ceremony drew to a close, a palpable sense of optimism filled the room. More than the beginning of a new term, the induction marked a renewed commitment to elevate the embalming and mortuary profession and safeguard its credibility.
Defined by unity and service, PAREMO’s inaugural gathering signaled not just the birth of an organization, but a shared promise—to serve the people of Panay Island with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering integrity./PN
