New Year

We are all living on borrowed times. This I always try to remember. Through all those years, and even at my ripe age now, I know that God may have called me back sooner. Thus, I believe that the Almighty is keeping me here for a mission yet to be accomplished.

I consider myself blessed to have in my days the loving presence of my constant companion, Senor Santo Niño, the ever protective arms of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the watchful eyes of Mama Mary, and the tender touch of my brother, Servant of God, Archbishop Teofilo Camomot. They are the essential Power that sustains me – always preparing me for whatever lies ahead.

The year 2019 will be a momentous time. It’ll mark the centennial of the school that my father Don Vicente Gullas founded.

Papa Inting’s Visayan Institute, or simply V.I., started in 1919. My father was a lawyer by profession, but an educator by heart. He was a very humble man, yet prophetic and visionary. He put up a school to give the children of poor peasants from the rural provinces a chance at getting an education, so they may take their families out of poverty.

One hundred years hence, Papa Inting’s school – now University of the Visayas – has produced innumerable professionals that have made names for themselves in various areas of human endeavor. My father is right – his school has been a ticket for a better life for many.

I still clearly remember, Papa’s words to us siblings – my brother Mayor Eddie, sister Inday Sering, and me, whom he called Dodong. He said Inday Sering would be a very good teacher, and Eddie would be involved in service to the community. His hope for me was to be the “janitor” (he actually meant nurturer) to his legacy, the school. He also bestowed upon me the responsibility of continuing the religious devotions of the family, especially the church involvements of Mama Pining. Certainly he understood the great burden he wanted me carry, for he told me, “I hope you will find a better half who could be a ‘servant’ to the Lord and Mama Mary,” since I would definitely need support.

On Papa’s birthday on January 12 next year, the University of the Visayas will also be celebrating its 100th founding anniversary. His humble Visayan Institute has grown to become the first university in Cebu. In line with the University’s humble beginnings, the centennial celebration will be simple yet memorable; with year-long activities, culminating on December 22, 2019, Papa’s 49th death anniversary.

Also next year, The Freeman newspaper (founded by my Uncle Paulino and which I revived in 1965) will celebrate its centennial year, with its sister publication, Banat News, turning 25 years old. Mr. Miguel Belmonte of the Star Group (whom I consider my brother) and I have agreed that the celebration will also be simple yet memorable. We want to pay a tribute to the men and women, past and present, who have contributed in making The Freeman the fair and fearless platform for news stories that Cebuano readers need to know. 

The coming year is once again a good vantage point to look over my journey in life, so far. It has been a journey in pursuit of a purpose, my parents’ and my own, in the service of God and fellowmen. I my own little ways, I try to leave some footprints of kindness in the hearts of fellow Cebuanos, especially those who have less in life. If and when I am able to do that, my day is complete.

The wisdom of Papa Inting and Mama Pining and my maternal grandmother, Lola Andrea – may their souls rest in peace – rings true to this day: “Kining pagpanaw sa kalibutan maanindot kun ang tawo magpabiling mapaubsanon, maloloy-on ug matinahuron. Kay ngano man? Dili nato mahibaw-an kun kanus-a manuktok kanato ang Kahitas-an.” (The life journey is beautiful to one who remains humble, kind, and respectful. Why? Because it prepares one for when the Almighty calls, anytime.)  Life is a gift from the Lord, and “What the Lord gives, the Lord may take back.”

To all our workers and readers, of both The Freeman and Banat News, may we all have a happy and prosperous New Year. May our hearts be filled with hope of good things to come. Happy New Year!