ILOILO City — In a hall filled with celebration and nostalgia, the 45th anniversary of Panay News on April 18, 2026 at the Iloilo Convention Center turned into a heartfelt remembrance of the man who built it from the ground up: Daniel “Danny” G. Fajardo.
For those who knew him beyond the newsroom, Fajardo was not just a publisher or a media figure. He was a constant presence — steady, unassuming, and deeply dedicated. His legacy lives not only in the pages of the publication he founded but also in the personal stories shared by those who called him a friend.
Among them was businessman Alfonso Tan, who recalled a ritual that defined their friendship — simple mornings over coffee at Hotel del Rio.
“Si Danny migo ko gid na sia for so many years. Every morning kitaay kami diri sa Hotel del Rio coffee shop. Isa ‘ni sia ka maayo nga tawo,” said Tan.
He added: “In bad times ara sia, pero in good times waay na sia. Intindiha niyo what I mean. He is my true friend, migo ko gid na sia katama.”
Tan’s words carried both warmth and quiet nostalgia. The simplicity he described seemed to define Fajardo’s character — present when it mattered, never seeking the spotlight, but always leaving a mark.
For former Senate President Franklin Drilon, his connection to Panay News was inseparable from his long-standing respect for its founder. In a video message, Drilon reflected on decades of observing Fajardo’s work and principles.
“I have always known Danny to be of firm principles and always in pursuit of the truth, very professional in public service and a very honorable member of the press,” he said.
Drilon emphasized that the credibility Panay News enjoys today is rooted in Fajardo’s values that cannot be manufactured.
“Panay News is known to be telling the truth and that is very critical because for you to survive you must have a confidence of the public, and confidence can only be earned. Like respect, it can only be earned, never imposed. Panay News has always projected that trust because it tells the truth,” he added.
Drilon described Panay News as a watchdog — an institution that has helped shape governance in Western Visayas by holding leaders accountable.
“We hope that Panay News will continue its tradition in the traditional media as one who seeks the truth, who’s not afraid to tell government officials where they are wrong, and encourage those who are doing well to continue to have this service to the people,” Drilon added.
The story of Fajardo and Panay News is one of grit. In its earliest days, there was no printing press, no large newsroom, and barely enough resources to sustain operations.
Fajardo knocked on the doors of printing presses across Iloilo, negotiating for the lowest costs and longest payment terms. At times, he even flew manuscripts to Manila just to save on printing expenses — returning with bundles of freshly printed newspapers carried on his shoulders.
It was, in every sense, a labor of faith.
“Continue the good work,” said Drilon. “To the editorial staff of Panay News, the country needs you. In Western Visayas we all look up to you to tell us what exactly is happening in the field of public service.”/PN
