The PHILAJAMES Southern Luzon Chapter held its Induction and Awarding Ceremony last April 29, 2019 at the UPCO Social Hall, University of the Philippines Los Baños. UPLB Chancellor Dr. Fernando C. Sanchez, Jr., a former president of PHILAJAMES-SLC, gave the welcome address to more than 50 members in attendance. Mr. Toshiyuki Taguchi of JICC served as guest speaker and inducting officer. The event’s highlight was the awarding of members who unstintingly led SLC in preserving the distinctive values of Japanese education and promoting better relations and understanding between Filipino and Japanese professionals.
All past twenty (20) Chapter Heads were given a Hashira Leadership Award. The hashira is the column part of the torii that symbolizes honor and pride. Dr. Evalour Aspuria, who has been serving as treasurer since 2004, and Dr. Nimfa Torreta, who served as secretary from 2004 to 2018, were both given the Nuki Outstanding Service Award for their many years of dependable service. The nuki is the horizontal part of the torii that symbolizes stability and coordination. Last but definitely not the least, the Daiishi Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Dr. Priscilla C. Sanchez for her significant contribution to the promotion of goodwill and excellence in the association. The daiishi is the stone base of the torii that symbolizes a strong foundation. Song performances by the internationally renowned UPLB Choral Ensemble made the event feel even more special.
