Public service that comes from the heart sums up Panay News’ core of operation. Forty years on, the paper has not only inspired action through its noble business of journalism but also touched and changed lives through its corporate arm, Daniel G. Fajardo Foundation Inc. (DGFFI).
Maria Santillan-Fajardo, known to many as “Madam Mary”, wife of the late Panay News founder Danny “Boss DF” Fajardo, vowed to continue the company’s endeavor to help and reach out to more people.
“Damu na aton ginpa-eskwela through scholarship kag nabuligan nga mga families through gift-giving activities as well as dental and medical missions,” said Madam Mary.
According to the Panay News’ first lady, the foundation was named after Sir Danny as a tribute to his dedication to public service being also the newspaper’s editor-in-chief.
She recalled how Sir Danny shelled out from his own pocket just to extend help to others during the early years of Panay News.
Madam Mary expressed her elation to those who appreciate and support the creation of the foundation that until now continues to serve its purpose.
“Madamu gid nga salamat ginsakdag naton ang pagpaninguha ni Danny nga makahatag sang benepisyo sa tanan ilabi na gid sa mga kubos. We will focus on our staff and their families…dapat mauna ni sila naton mabenepisyuhan,” Madam Mary said.
The rebirth of Panay News on its 40th anniversary today, according to Madam Mary, is a fresh mandate to continue what it had started in the field of public service.
It could also mean a different focus by moving out from traditional journalism and pursue as a real member of the “fourth state” who can stand with a challenge especially in the digital age.
For her, the men and women of Panay News are the main reasons why the leading regional newspaper in the country continues to fly high.
“Thank you sa tanan nga naga-support sang sini nga pagpaninguha para mabenepisyuhan gid ang tanan,” Madam Mary said.
Her appreciation likewise goes to all the subscribers/readers who, through the years, made Panay News a part of their daily lives./PN
