In recognition of their significant contributions and unwavering loyalty to the university, Tarlac State University paid tribute to faculty members and staff in the annual "Service Awards" ceremony on October 19, 2023, at the TSU Gymnasium.
The awardees who have dedicated 10 to 40 years of service received certificates and tokens of appreciation, which were presented by TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Agnes M. Macaraeg, Vice President for Research Development and Extension Dr. Murphy P. Mohammed, and Vice President for Administration Dr. Grace N. Rosete.
In his message, Pres. Velasco thanked and recognized the awardees' efforts in contributing to the university's milestones.
"Throughout the years, you have been significant employees of the university and a role model to the community. Your efforts and dedication have not gone unnoticed, and we are equally grateful for your contributions... May you inspire the younger generation to practice professionalism and exemplify that striving for excellence and commitment to work every day is essential to stay longer here at Tarlac State University," he said.
Pres. Velasco also shared a story emphasizing the need to unite and involve others to further the university's success.
“The essence of winning is not winning the game, but how you run the race. Sama-sama po tayo. Ang inyo pong presidente ay mangunguna upang lahat tayo ay sabay-sabay na uunlad upang isulong ang vision, mission, at dreams ng Tarlac State University,” he added.
This year's service awardee with the longest tenure is Prof. Marcelino P. Balanquit, who has been with TSU for 40 years.
Prof. Balanquit, director of the Office of Culture, Arts, and Languages, has been handling the university's culture and arts affairs for 40 years. He is also an attached faculty under the College of Education.
Furthermore, TSU acknowledged retired faculty and personnel and presented posthumous awards to university employees who recently passed away.
Ms. Dianne R. Padilla, the daughter of security personnel Mr. Diosdado E. Padilla Jr., tearfully accepted the certificate and token of appreciation on behalf of her father, who served the university for 20 years.
On the other hand, his son received the posthumous award on behalf of their family.
Mr. Padilla passed away on September 25, 2023, just ten days before his scheduled retirement.
Meanwhile, committee members responsible for crafting the new university charter and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) were also awarded plaques of commendation, including former CHED Region III Director Dr. Leonida S. Calagui, NEDA Region III Assistant Regional Director Hon. Evelyn N. Casto, NHCP Commissioner Dr. Lino L. Dizon, former student regent Mr. Harold D. Hilario, and TSU Board of Regents member Hon. Dennis Norman T. Go.
To conclude the program, the awardees performed a special dance to entertain the audience.
The Office of Human Resource Development and Management organizes the annual Service Awards. (jlmm-OPA)
