Preserving family and legacy

SEVEN years after the passing of Daniel “Danny” G. Fajardo, founder of Panay News, his legacy endures — not only in the realm of journalism but also in the quiet strength of his family life. For his wife, Maria S. Fajardo, or “Madam Mary” as she is fondly called, the memory of her husband is not just of a publisher who built Western Visayas’ biggest daily, but of a man who deeply valued his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather.

“Maayo gid siya nga bana, maayo gid siya nga tatay, kag sa tanan nga aspects sang kabuhi ginagampanan niya ang nararapat,” Madam Mary said warmly, recalling how her husband carried his responsibilities with discipline and sincerity.

Despite the demands of running a newspaper, she shared that Sir Danny never allowed family to take the backseat.

“He spent most of his time with us, with our children, kag ginampanan niya tanan ng buong puso,” she added.

As a grandfather, Sir Danny’s presence was equally profound. His values and principles became lessons etched in the hearts of his grandchildren, instilling in them the importance of family and integrity. 

“Na-instill niya gid ang pagka-lolo niya sa mga apo, kag ang iya mga prinsipyo nga ginbilin niya amo gid ang ginasunod,” Madam Mary shared.

Even at home, his passion for journalism was unmistakable. Madam Mary recalled moments when Sir Danny’s conviction and discernment would shine through — tempered always by his dedication to his loved ones.

“Tanan ginhatagan niya sang fulfillment, may panindugan siya sa tanan nga bagay, pero gina-una niya gid ang pamilya,” she said.

When asked what she remembers most, Madam Mary paused before sharing what she considers his truest legacy: the preservation of family.

“Amo na ang ginbilin niya sa akon kag sa amon tanan. Nga unahon gid ang pamilya, kag himuon tanan para sa ila, bisan pa nga may commitment siya as a journalist,” she said.

For Madam Mary, her late husband’s success is measured not only by the pages of Panay News but also by the love and guidance he left behind.
“Wala kami sang negative nga comment sa iya. Tanan nga positive, gin-instill niya sa mga anak kag apo niya. Para sa amon, maayo gid siya nga halimbawa,” Madam Mary added.

Seven years on, Daniel “Danny” G. Fajardo’s name remains synonymous with fearless journalism in Western Visayas. Yet, for his family, he is remembered first and foremost as the loving husband and father who built a legacy of faith, love, and family — values that continue to anchor both their lives and the newspaper he founded./PN