And they call him Stephen

Every name has its own story to tell. It is a semblance of one's personality. When one utters one's name, a story begins.

Mr. Stephen Sy Gaisano - the lone survivor of the Gaisano Brothers - is the man behind the Doña Modesta Singson Gaisano Foundation. Stephen named the foundation in his mother's honor to perpetuate the memory of the beloved Gaisano matriarch.

Organized in the mid-50's, the Doña Modesta Singson Gaisano Foundation marked the end of the stupidity of leaving one's education to chance. It has become synonymous for hope to hundreds of talented Cebuano students who have been experiencing the agony of having to resist problems in education. It has likewise changed the equivocal concept of education that a great number of the poor believe in.

Who said that poverty is a hindrance to success? Hundreds of poor but deserving Gaisano scholars have succeeded in their chosen fields. Through the Foundation's scholarship program many poor recipients of the grant have proven that poverty offers a challenge - that complacency is never a virtue.

The Foundation that has helped and continues to help in realizing one's dream encouraged the scholars to sincerely work hard. Doña Modesta Singson Gaisano Foundation is as a candle constantly lighting up one's life, and Stephen personified this philanthropic symbol.

Stephen's concern for Cebuano youths does not only limit to granting scholarship programs but also extends to fathering an annual painting competition dedicated to Martin Abellana whom he considers as one of the finest Cebuano painters. Stephen has an eye for art. His desire to see the youth who are both successful and useful citizens of the country has inspired him to give talented artists a chance to grow and gain recognition in the community.

The Foundation also financially supported the Sta. Maria Gorreti Free School run by the YLAC Foundation in Cebu City. It was the school's biggest financial supporter, and had been for many years a benefactor of the former Lubas Dagang Bisaya (LUDABI) - a Visayas-Mindanao cultural association.

It is also a tradition of the foundation to help victims of calamities all over the country, to financially support civil projects designed for the improvement of life of the poor Cebuanos, and to assist projects that lead the people towards a religious and moral life.

Moreover, the Foundation readily responded by financing the construction of Cebu Eastern College's cultural auditorium.

Everyone knows the popularity of the Gaisano stores nationwide, yet not everyone knows that it was Stephen who first came up with the name. He was the one who opened the first Gaisano superstore in Cebu - the Gaisano, Inc. - that rekindled the drowsy life of the seemingly dying Colon Street.

On November 8, the University of San Carlos will recognize the humanitarian endeavors of Mr. Stephen Sy Gaisano. Stephen has made many accomplishments in many fields of human endeavor, yet he remains humble and prefers to maintain a low profile. He simply helps out of true sincerity. This venerable man's conferment of the citation and diploma - Doctor of Humanities, Honoris Causa - is one way of recognizing his benevolent acts.

Stephen is a person who has devoted much of his time and energy for the love of community and for the benefit of his fellowmen. His commitment to help the less fortunate Cebuanos has been forwarded down to his children and grandchildren. He is truly blessed with heirs who have likewise the heart for sharing the blessings they have received from the Almighty God.

Stephen believed that "when we perform a good deed, it is best not to attach to what we have done. If we practice in this way, then all of our good deeds will reach fulfillment and success". His firm principle has made him worthy of recognition.

He is Stephen Sy Gaisano, the one who has touched the lives of many. And this is his story - a great faithful dedication, sincerity to help, and respect for others that would certainly pass on to many generations.