YEARLONG achievements, dedication and excellence displayed by members of the Bedan Community, including administrators, faculty and staff, were lauded during the 2025 Academic Convocation and Bedan Service Awards held at the St. Benedict Chapel last July 11.

Rev. Fr. Gerardo Ma. De Villa, OSB, SBCA Rector-President, shared in his inspirational speech how SBCA, as a Catholic and Benedictine Institution, is a living community grounded in faith and dedicated to the service of others. He calls on the attendees to be relevant, resilient and responsive to the needs of the wider society.

He urged the community to do more, be better and uplift those entrusted to their care. “Every lesson we teach, every program we develop and every interaction we have contributes to shaping the future of our students, and by extension, to the future of our nation,” he said.

Despite emphasizing the importance of quality education, Rev. Fr. De Villa reminds them that their faith serves as a guiding light and that they should not neglect their spiritual life. He stresses that the school’s strength lies in the connections and authentic relationships between professors, students, families, alumni and the like — reminding them that education and excellence is a shared journey. 

Dr. Jeana A. Ariola, Director for the Integrated Basic Education Department, prefaced her welcoming message by saying that teachers are the heart of academic success. “Here at SBCA, we believe that quality education begins with our dedicated and inspiring teachers.”

Dr. Ariola shed light on the educators and non-teaching personnel who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. “Whether through pursuit of higher studies, groundbreaking research endeavors, earning additional degrees or receiving special recognition, each accomplishment tells a story of relentless dedication in transforming and shaping the lives of our learners.”

After her message, 23 awardees from the Integrated Basic Education Department faculty who have completed a degree, completed a certification program, passed a board or licensure exam, given academic citations, elected or appointed to significant positions, contributed significantly to the educational field or have impacted SBCA, were conferred the St. Benedict Medal and a certificate of recognition given by Rev. Fr. De Villa and Dr. Ariola.

“The degrees that we earn, the research papers that we publish, the labor that get recognition and the positions we are entrusted with, not only benefit us as individuals but positively ripple out to our friends, family, our school community and even beyond,” Atty. Juan Ruffo D. Chong, Director of Tertiary and Graduate Education, said in his welcoming speech. 

Echoing the words of the Rector-President, he says that the pursuit of excellence is a lifelong journey, “we strive to be better today than yesterday.” He mentions that despite all the awards given today, they must remember to pause and give thanks to God, for he believes that apart from Him, they are nothing.

Afterwards, 26 professors and staff of the Tertiary Schools were recognized for their excellence and contributions in their respective fields and were awarded the St. Benedict Medal and a certificate of recognition.

The 2025 Bedan Service Awards Ceremony then followed, paying tribute to staff and employees who have given a significant portion of their lives to the Bedan community. 

Dr. Ryan M. Sicat, Human Resource Manager, shared a few words before proceeding with the awarding. “We honor the remarkable achievements of our employees and celebrate the dedication of our service awardees along with all our Bedan lay collaborators.”

He puts forward that the steadfast commitment, the quiet sacrifices and the enduring loyalty of our employees are the foundation of the identity of SBCA. 

The Bedan Service Awards acknowledge the milestones of individuals who have dedicated their time to SBCA, honoring staff members who have stayed with the Bedan community. 

Awards were given to 24 staff for 10 and 15 years of service, including the School of Law, six for 20 years, three for 25 years, five for 30 years, three for 35 years, two for 40 years and 7 Bedan retirees.

To conclude the event, Mr. Ireneo P. Mayote, a retiree from Administrative Services, gave his message of thanks. “Ako po ay nagpapasalamat sa inyong lahat, sa mga kasamahan ko sa trabaho, sa mga teacher, lalong lalo na sa mga kaparian natin.”