THE exciting night of color and pride of Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai International School dubbed as “Gabi ng Pasasalamat” took place at the Grand Agila Ballroom of Waterfront Insular Hotel last October 11, 2017 which marks the 25 years of educational success of the institution. The event which epitomize the hard work and scholastic merit of PNJK-IS was attended by around 200 guests from Japan and Davao, school officials, service awardees and employees.
The gorgeous school president and directress, Mrs. Ines P. Mallari, opens the program by delivering a welcome speech to all the guests. She took the opportunity to thank the selfless support from everyone for the transformation of Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai Educational Center to Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai School of Davao to Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai International School. She also took the chance of extending her sincere gratitude to the three members of the school Board of Trustees who were the proponents in the establishments of the school, Mrs. Adelaida Panaguiton, Judge Antonina Escovilla and Mrs. Carmen Apigo. Mrs. Mallari, in her welcome speech urged everyone to remember with a grateful heart the lessons brought about by the past that will help improve the present work and lead to the future successes.
Following Mrs. Mallari’s speech, Rev. Masataka Ajiro, Mindanao Kokusai Daigaku’s Honorary Chancellor and one of school’s benefactors, gave the congratulatory message to the 25th birthday of PNJK-IS. He also reminded everyone to never forget the origins of PNJK-IS and to build stronger relationship between Philippines and Japan through the teaching of the Japanese language.
The congratulatory message of Dr. Maria Ines Asuncion, CESO VI, School’s Division Superintendent, was delivered by Dr.Jonas Priore. In her message, Dr. Asuncion commended the PNJK-IS community for the hard work and for living up to the school’s vision and mission.
Mrs. Ruelyn Cubio-Bobiles, the 24-year service awardee gave the acceptance message, on behalf of the awardees. Mrs. Bobiles reiterated the humble beginnings of the school and shared why she stayed that long in PNJK-IS.
The other side of the PNJK-IS employees was also showcased that night as the ladies and the gentlemen dolled up in dazzling long gowns and voguish suit. It was a fun filled night full of fervor as the faculty and staff rendered a cotillion dance and song numbers. A special musical extravaganza was also rendered by Mr. Shuji Honda, Mr. Takakazu Machida, Mr. Wilfredo Terante and Mr. Hector Ortega. Everybody also witnessed a one of a kind performance from Master Senju Einojo, a highly respected keeper of tradition and instructor of Nihon Buyo, the oldest and most traditional form of Japanese theatrical dance. Added to the enthusiasm of everyone was the raffle of door prizes where 25 lucky individuals received the giveaways. The handsome Mr. Clark John Coronado and beautiful Ms. Wella Rei Lasta were also adjudged as the Mr. and Ms. Stars of the Night. All attendees also received the 25th Year token from PNJK-IS. Plaques of appreciation were also given to the benefactors and supporters of PNJK-IS.
The Gabi ng Pasasalamat was also the venue where the employees who have served an appreciated period of time in the institution were honored for their unwavering commitment to PNJK-IS. Service awardees, from 10 years to 24 years, received plaques of recognition and cash incentives from the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai International School. (Lhai S. Jubilado)