KAHAYAG UG PAGLAUM | Duros Group Lights Christmas Tree with Prayer and Purpose
LILOAN, CEBU — In a solemn yet hopeful gathering at One Tectona Hotel on November 26, the Duros Group held its annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony with a renewed sense of purpose, transforming the traditional celebration into a collective prayer for light and hope for the nation.
Under the theme “Kahayag ng Paglaum” (Light and Hope), the event brought together employees from across the Duros Group’s diverse business institutions, reflecting on a year marked by both challenges and compassion.
“Ang One Tectona Hotel karon, usa ka panimalay sa kahayag,” began Mr. Adie Gallares, Managing Director of Duros Hotels, in his welcome message. The hotel, he noted, has become more than a business establishment—it has served as sanctuary for foreign volunteers assisting earthquake victims in Northern Cebu and temporary shelter for families displaced by devastating typhoons.
Duros Group President Fe M. Barino emphasized the dual significance of this year’s theme. “Kahayag — kay bisan sa kangitngit sa mga panghitabo sa atong nasud, kita nagsalig nga adunay kahayag nga modan-ag,” she said, acknowledging the darkness of recent crises while affirming faith in illumination ahead. “Paglaum — kay bisan sa kalisod,” she continued, reminding those gathered that despite the earthquakes and storms that have tested Cebu, hope remains unshaken.
Barino underscored that the Duros Group’s mission extends beyond constructing roads and buildings. “Tukoron nato ang paglaum sa pamilya, ang paglambo sa komunidad, ug ang pagbarog sa usa ka nasud nga nagkinahanglan sa kahayag,” she declared.
The ceremony’s most poignant moment came during the intercessory prayers, where representatives from ten different Duros Group companies—from Duros Hotel to Divine Life Institute—lit candles and offered prayers for the nation. Employees including Janine Matig-a, Chenne Ermac, Joseph Meca, and others stood united in their petitions, each representing a different branch of the corporate family but joined in common purpose.
Following scripture readings, a moment of silence, and the lighting of the Christmas tree accompanied by carols sung by the Board of Directors, the program concluded with fellowship over dinner—a simple yet meaningful celebration.
The Duros Group deliberately made the event with greater simplicity, deeper compassion, and more intentional solidarity with the poor. In doing so, they embodied their own message: that true light comes not from spectacle, but from service.
As the Christmas tree glowed against the evening sky at The Woodlands in Yati, it stood as more than decoration—it was a beacon of corporate responsibility, community solidarity, and steady hope for better days ahead.
Maayong Pasko, Duros Group!