TODAY, September 10, marks the sixth death anniversary of Daniel “Danny” Gumban Fajardo, the visionary founder of the over four-decade-old Panay News, the No. 1 Regional Newspaper.
A man whose life’s work transcended the boundaries of journalism, his legacy continues to inspire and serve the Ilonggo community through the foundation that bears his name.
Fondly known as “Boss DF”, Sir Danny was not just a figurehead of the region’s leading newspaper; he was a pillar of generosity, commitment, and dedication to public service.
For nearly half a century, Panay News has been at the forefront of delivering news with integrity, influencing public opinion, and inspiring change. Yet, beyond the printed pages, the newspaper — through the Daniel G. Fajardo Foundation, Inc. (DGFFI) — has touched the lives of countless individuals, especially the underprivileged. The foundation’s mission, rooted in Fajardo’s selfless devotion to service, focuses on initiatives that uplift communities, such as medical and dental missions, scholarships, and gift-giving activities.
“The foundation was created to give back to the community that has supported us through the years,” says Atty. Abdiel Dan Elijah “Ade” Fajardo, Panay News’ Chairman of the Board and son of Daniel and Maria Santillan Fajardo.
Atty. Fajardo emphasizes that his parents’ dedication to community service is a legacy he and his siblings are committed to upholding.
Annually, the DGFFI spearheads numerous projects, extending its reach not only in Iloilo but also in neighboring provinces.
The foundation’s initiatives include, among others, gift-giving to public preschool and elementary school learners underprivileged members of the community. For example it sponsored a new school gate for Agmanaphao Elementary School in Mina, Iloilo last March 2021 for the safety of learners and teachers and the school’s properties; and distributed gift packs to 700 senior citizens in two barangays in San Jose, Antique last March 2022. These and other projects encapsulate the spirit of giving back that Boss DF embodied throughout his life.
“Public service from the heart,” as Atty. Fajardo describes, is at the core of both the newspaper and the DGFFI’s operations. This sentiment is echoed by Boss DF’s ever supportive better-half, Maria, affectionately known as “Madam Mary”, who recalls Sir Danny’s unwavering commitment to helping others, often funding charitable activities out of his own pocket.
“Damu na aton ginpa-eskwela through scholarships kag nabuligan nga mga families through gift-giving activities as well as dental and medical missions,” shares Madam Mary, expressing her gratitude to those who continue to support the foundation’s endeavors.
She remains determined to honor her husband’s legacy by reaching even more people in need.
The DGFFI and Panay News have made it their mission to spread the spirit of compassion and caring through annual gift-giving events. These activities, filled with gifts, games, and fun, have become a tradition of joy and generosity for countless families.
“We are more than happy to give back to the community through DGFFI. We want to touch more lives and give inspiration especially to the young ones and we will make sure to continue this in the many years to come. As long as Panay News is here, we will not stop,” says Daniel S. Fajardo II, Chairman of DGFFI.
“And of course, we are very grateful to our partners and sponsors who trust and support us through the years. Their help and contributions is what make our community outreach successful. I would like to thank our employees who volunteer and embody our core values of service from the heart in all aspect,” he adds.
The work of the Daniel G. Fajardo Foundation, Inc. is a testament to the values that Boss DF held dear—journalism rooted in truth, public service motivated by compassion, and a relentless drive to improve the lives of others. His legacy remains alive in every project, every life touched, and every community strengthened by his vision.
As the Ilonggo community commemorates his life and contributions, it’s clear that Daniel G. Fajardo’s legacy continues to ripple through the generations. His dedication to both the written word and the welfare of others ensures that his spirit will never fade. He leaves behind not just a newspaper, but a movement — one that serves from the heart, one that endures./PN
