Celebration of Life

Yesterday was really a red-letter day as it was the Silver Anniversary celebration of The Visayan DAILY STAR which has been shining brightly for the past 25 years. At 10 a.m., Msgr. GG Gaston blessed and officiated at the groundbreaking rites for the new STAR building and the unveiling of its perspective.

Then off to Sugarland Hotel for the program and lunch.

Msgr. GG Gaston led the invocation and Chairman of the Board Primo Esleyer welcomed stockholders, guests, friends and patrons.

Paeng Golez introduced the Father of Gawad Kalinga, the very active Antonio Meloto, who had to fly to Bicol for another Gawad Kalinga project, but did not renege on his word to be the guest speaker at the event.

Editor-in-chief and president Ninfa Leonardia gave a warm response, followed by the lighting of the candles by all directors.

Awards were given to Carla Gomez, Maja Dely and Ronnie Galvan for their undying dedication and support for the paper. Modi Sa-onoy thanked everybody for coming.

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"Bili Sang Gugma" or Cost of Love, a Passion play, was presented by the San Sebastian Parish at the BAYS Center during the Lenten holidays. It was directed by Bobby Benedicto. A road show was held starting from the Lagoon passing Lacson, Libertad, Araneta then to the plaza. It was directed by Bebong Song.

In the cast were Marvin Apoyon as Jesus Christ, Mary Grace Apoyon - Blessed Virgin Mary, Tony Tarug - Judas, Rodjohn Navarro - Caiphas, Mark Sison - Pilate , and hundreds more.

On Easter Sunday, a yellow banner hanging with butterflies spreading their wings signified Christ's Resurrection: Jesus is Alive.

The faithful joined the early procession, mass and children's costume party and program.

Executive producer was Msgr. Victorino Rivas, JCD. A million thanks also to Bacolod Bishop Most Rev. Vicente Navarra D.D., Rev. Fr. Louie Gabines, Fr. Angel Fidel, Fr. Chris Gonzales and Rev. Brethen Reyes Gamola.

Remember:

Answer me when I call, God of my righteousness. Give me relief from my distress. Have mercy on me, and hear my prayer.*