Cagayan State University - Sanchez Mira concluded the Women's Month celebration with its first-ever "GALAD" (Ginintuang Alagad ng Lipunan tungo sa Adhikaing Dalisay) Awards on March 31, recognizing outstanding women leaders who have made significant contributions to both the campus and the community.
The ceremony, held at the Campus Conference Hall, honored nine distinguished women from both the academic institution and local community who serve as role models and embody excellence in their respective fields.
The inaugural GALAD Awards recognized Ms. Ruth G. Villaluz, Executive Judge Gemma P. Bucayu-Madrid, Dr. Vivienne Suzette G. Cachapero, Ms. Gina Juliet C. Acosta, Ms. Charito B. Tabuena, Ms. Uranis A. Aguda, Ms. Laureen F. Sandoval, Ms. Myrna I. Gamentore, and Prof. Dr. Janelyn I. Agbayani.
In his inspirational message, Prof. Dr. Rodel Francisco T. Alegado, campus executive officer, likened women to stars, describing them as radiant, unwavering, and full of light.
"No matter how vast the darkness, they shine with brilliance and illuminate light for others… Their resilience withstands the storms of time, their wisdom guides generations, and their compassion nurtures the world. Undeniably, women are stars of radiance,” he said.
In response on behalf of the honorees, Ms. Ruth G. Villaluz, a retired Master Teacher II of Sanchez Mira Central Elementary School and former School Directress of the Sanchez Mira Institute for Lifelong Education (SMILE), shared her nostalgic feelings about her journey and profound gratitude for the recognition.
"If I am anything or anybody as a teacher now, it is because of the quality education this institution has molded in me," she said.
Ms. Villaluz also emphasized the Olympic motto ‘Citius, Altius, Fortius’, encouraging everyone, to continually strive for excellence and do things faster, higher, stronger, and together.
The GALAD Awards was attended by the college deans, heads of offices, female campus officials and CSC officers. In addition, the event was expected to become an annual tradition at CSU-SM, continuing to recognize the achievements of women who exemplify excellence and service in their fields while inspiring the next generation of professionals.