Ilog Seventh-day Adventist Elementary School (ISDAES) in Negros Occidental held its first homecoming event on March 24, 2025, celebrating its 45th anniversary.
The event, themed “Forever Connected, Forever ISDAES: One Soul, One Heart, One Home,” welcomed nearly 200 alumni back home.
ISDAES, which also stands for Inspired Souls Driven for Eternal Salvation, was established in 1980. The school was planned and approved by church members under the leadership of Mr. Antonio de Asis, who served as the board chairman and donated the land where the church is located.
It was constructed using materials from the old church and began with only one classroom, offering multi-grade classes for students in grades 1 through 4. The first teachers were Miss Betty Toledo and Mrs. Aurora Rivera.
After a few years, an additional classroom was constructed, and the first graduation ceremony took place in 1983, where five students graduated.
The homecoming celebration started with a motorcade that traveled throughout the entire municipality.
“Homecoming is a moment to reminisce and celebrate the past and the goodness of God,” said Pastor Jessie Aragon, vice president for advancement at Central Philippine Adventist College, who served as the keynote speaker for the event. “The celebration reflected on the legacy of former teachers and brought alumni together to reconnect and celebrate the school’s progress,”
Moreover, Mrs. Jerelyn Orquesta, education director of the Negros Occidental Conference and one of the inspirational speakers, said, “Ilog Elementary School remains a place of excellence. Homecoming is not just about looking back but also about moving forward. Let us use our blessings to uplift others.”
Joining her on the list of speakers were John Paolo Alvarez, the son of Honorable Mayor John Paul Alvarez, and Pastor Jophone Galanza, the president of NOC.
Pastor Galanza encouraged the alumni to envision a brighter future and support the school’s new project, ensuring that upcoming generations benefit from a comfortable learning environment.
During moments of nostalgia, former teachers reflected on their years as school advisers. They urged everyone to support alumni in upholding the values they learned and to continue their commitment as light bearers of ISDAES.
Stephanie Loriezo, Head Writer, Negros Occidental Conference.
The article’s original version was posted on the official Facebook page of the Negros Occidental Conference.