Good evening, especially to all our awardees, the BUGAAI Board of Directors, Deans and Directors, Alumni Coordinators, distinguished guests, friends, and family.
Good evening, everyone.
Let me share with you a simple yet deeply meaningful story about love, gratitude, and the things that truly matter in life.
There were three siblings whose parents gave everything to ensure they had a good education. They each found success in their own fields—one became a lawyer, another a businessman, and the third a theologian.
Their mother, now elderly and living in the United States, was about to celebrate her birthday. The siblings wanted to show their love and appreciation for everything she had done for them, so they decided to give her the best gifts they could think of.
The lawyer said, “I’ll give her a luxury car—something prestigious, like a BMW or Mercedes-Benz. It will show how far we’ve come.”
The businessman said, “I’ll give her a grand mansion. It’s the least I can do to thank her for all her sacrifices.”
The theologian said, “I’ll give her something meaningful—a parrot trained to recite Bible verses. It will keep her company and remind her of her faith.”
When the lawyer’s gift—a brand-new luxury car—arrived, the mother said:
“My child, thank you so much for your generous gift. But I’m too old to drive now. Still, I appreciate your thoughtfulness.”
When the businessman’s grand mansion was completed, the mother said:
“My child, thank you for this beautiful house. But I’m too old to climb up and down its stairs. Still, I’m grateful for your kindness.”
Finally, the theologian’s gift—a parrot trained to recite Bible verses—arrived. Later, the mother called him and said:
“My child, this is the most thoughtful gift I’ve ever received. Thank you so much! And guess what? I cooked it into fried chicken—it was delicious!”
The parrot became fried chicken.
The lesson here is clear:
Our parents don’t need luxury cars, grand mansions, or extravagant gifts. What they treasure most is our love, our time, and our gratitude. They don’t ask for much—just that we remember them, appreciate them, and show them how much we care.
In the same way, let us ask ourselves: Have we remembered to show gratitude to our alma mater, Bicol University? Have we taken the time to give back to the institution that nurtured us and prepared us for the successes we enjoy today?
Message from the President
As President of the Bicol University General Alumni Association, Inc., it is my distinct honor and privilege to welcome you all to this momentous occasion—the Exemplar Award. Today, we gather not only to celebrate excellence but also to honor the profound impact our alumni have made in shaping a brighter and better world.
Our theme, BU Alumni Luminaries Night, beautifully encapsulates the essence of this event. The awardees we honor today are more than just achievers; they are beacons of hope and inspiration. Through their actions, they have illuminated lives, uplifted communities, and contributed significantly to society’s progress.
As a proud part of the Bicol University community, we celebrate not only individual accomplishments but the collective efforts of all our alumni. Let us also remember that our commitment to excellence extends far beyond the university. Whether through education, public service, or community development, we aim to touch the lives of every Filipino, especially those most in need.
To our awardees, congratulations! You embody the very best of what it means to be a graduate of Bicol University. Your achievements are more than personal triumphs; they are legacies that inspire and empower future generations to dream bigger and do more.
Let this occasion serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility to continue serving, excelling, and making a positive difference in the lives of others. Together, let us illuminate the path ahead with purpose, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
Thank you, and mabuhay ang Bicol University! Mabuhay ang ating mga Exemplar Awardees!
