LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — As we mourn the death of Governor Emilio ‘Dodo’ Macias II and celebrate the brilliant life he lived, I would like to add to the many messages that have been sent in his honor and memory, on behalf of myself, my family and the Silliman University Alumni Council of North America (SUACONA). {{more}}
Dodo Macias was born to a prominent family, surrounded from birth with the luxuries of life. While many others in his situation would have been pampered with such privileged upbringing, he chose a path which had been close to his heart and would define his life’s mission – service to the people, especially those who have less in life.
Perhaps it was the influence of his congressman-father which outlined the journey he would eventually lead. Perhaps it was his faith and piety borne out of and inculcated in his active membership in the Silliman University Church. Perhaps it was the education and training he obtained from Silliman University, which not only prepared him for professional competence but also ingrained in him an earnest belief and discipleship of Him who is the Via, Veritas, Vita – the Way, the Truth and the Life.
As a public servant, Dodo Macias was outstanding in his zeal to work for the betterment of the citizenry. He possessed a clear understanding of the plight of the underserved and has developed a brilliant vision on how to employ innovative programs, efficiently harnessing the province’s meager resources.
In any situation, he always proudly proclaimed his Silliman heritage. He always carried the distinction, with pride and honor, that he was nurtured and made whole by his Silliman experience.
Dodo was a true leader, in the sense that he was faithful to the admonition of Jesus Christ, who said that “he who wishes to be first shall be the last of all, and servant of all.” I have no doubt where Dodo is now. And I’m sure that when he first met his Maker on his ascension to the Great Beyond, there was a big smile on God’s face as He proclaimed, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
(Ms. Duran-Bennett is the Chairperson of SUACONA)
