Adventist Academy Bacolod, formerly known as Negros Mission Academy, celebrated its 57th Foundation Day and Alumni Homecoming from Aug. 7 to 10, 2025.
The 57th Foundation Day event took place at the Negros Occidental Conference Evangelism Center on August 7, 2025, under the theme “Rooted in Grace: Celebrating 57 Years of God’s Blessings.” The event brought together students, former teachers, staff, and alumni.
Flosie Abibuag, the principal of AAB, expressed her gratitude to the alumni, stating, “To the alumni, you are the fruit of this school. To the parents, your labor is not in vain.” She emphasized the importance of the support given for the school’s Christian education, adding, “Expect great things from God,” while highlighting the milestones and blessings the school experienced over the past decade.
As part of the celebration, the alumni homecoming, titled “Handuraw 3.0,” commenced on the evening of August 8, 2025, led by the Pyxis batch of 2000 during a vespers service to mark their 25th anniversary as alumni.
Noreen Mae Caldito-Sumalpong, a member of the batch of 2000 and the current education director of the Samar Mission, emphasized the value of Adventist education during her message.
She remarked, “In an Adventist education, faith and learning are entwined,” while reminiscing about her high school experiences and the motivation she received from her parents and teachers. “We are not preserving history; we are creating a legacy,” she added.
Adventist Academy Bacolod served as a home for alumni to reconnect and reminisce about their school memories. The foundation of academic and spiritual growth was celebrated through gatherings and potlucks following church services.
Pastor Samuel Gaurino, one of the guest speakers, reflected on his experience, saying, “I am so glad to be here. It’s so overwhelming.”
To “Handuraw” or reminisce, a cultural presentation showcasing the talents of alumni from different batches took place on Saturday night. Dr. Hazel Chua-Pagunsan, the Alumni President, expressed her gratitude, stating, “Thank you to all who have generously given their time, effort, and love to the alumni association. Words are not enough to express my gratitude.”
The narrative of the school, both past and present, demonstrated that what alumni have become is rooted in the faith and learning instilled in their alma mater—not merely to be successful individuals, but to be leaders committed to a life dedicated to God’s service.
By Stephanie Loriezo ⎸ Head Writer ⎸ Negros Occidental Conference
This article is also published on the official Facebook page of Negros Occidental Conference.