A decade of service, growth, and transformation was joyfully celebrated by LIGHT Microfinance, Inc. as it marked its 10th anniversary on November 7, 2025. The event brought together staff, valued partners, and esteemed guests from across the Philippines for a day of reflection, gratitude, and celebration of God’s sustaining grace.
The program began with the National Anthem, followed by a warm welcome address from Hon. Wilma B. Caluag, Mayor of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, who acknowledged the remarkable journey of LIGHT and the impact it continues to have on communities.
“In any decisions we make, merong magagalit, at merong matutuwa. Doon ka sa alam mong tama.”
— Hon. Wilma B. Caluag, CSFP Mayor
The spirit of praise and gratitude set the tone with worship led by Perry P. Paz, NFSG Director, inspiring attendees to reflect on the blessings and milestones of the past ten years. Ptr. Josephus Ed “Jebo” Banzuelo, our Resource Speaker, delivered an uplifting message reflecting on the theme “God’s Sustaining Grace.” He reminded everyone of the Lord’s faithfulness and guidance throughout LIGHT’s decade-long journey. Attendees from different LIGHT branches also shared their personal reflections on how God’s sustaining grace touched their lives.
“When we serve God, He is not only concerned about what He can accomplish through us, but also about what He can transform within us.”
— Ptr. Josephus Ed “Jebo” Banzuelo
The celebration continued with the acknowledgment of attendees representing branches nationwide — a symbol of unity and the collaborative spirit that have fueled LIGHT’s growth. Ptra. Edith Pineda, Corporate Treasurer, delivered the Opening Remarks, expressing deep gratitude to God for His goodness and faithfulness throughout the years.
A commemorative audio-visual presentation beautifully captured LIGHT’s decade-long milestones, taking everyone on a visual journey of faith, perseverance, and impact.
Lunchtime provided an opportunity for fellowship and meaningful connection, followed by congratulatory messages from esteemed partners, affirming LIGHT’s continued commitment to serving communities and partner-clients. Fr. Eddie “Among Ed” T. Panlilio, Chairman, further emphasized the organization’s mission of service and faith-driven leadership in his heartfelt message to those who stood firm in LIGHT’s early challenges.
“Kayong mga tumindig at tumayo noong first at second disputes; kung hindi kayo tumayo, nanindigan, at nagkaisa, walang 10th Anniversary ang LIGHT. Dito natin makikita what kind of moral fiber our people have. They didn’t take these challenges sitting down.”
— Fr. Eddie T. Panlilio, Chairman
The celebration also recognized the dedication of LIGHT’s people through service awards for 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years, honoring their faithfulness and contribution to LIGHT’s enduring legacy. Selected staff, partner-clients, and LIGHT scholars (Isko) also shared inspiring testimonies of perseverance, faith, and transformation.
A highlight of the day was the Branch Performance Presentation featuring nine competing branches: Lipa, Baliwag, Cebu South, Quezon City, Cauayan, Lapu-Lapu, Tagum Branch and Nabunturan Unit, Antipolo, and Daet. The Main Office’s special performance captured hearts, while the winners were announced: Third Place – Cauayan, Second Place – Tagum Branch and Nabunturan Unit; and Champion – Antipolo Branch, showcasing creativity, teamwork, and passion.
The recognition of leadership and excellence continued with the awarding of the Board of Trustees and the crowning of the Lakan and Lakambini of LIGHT 2025, honoring individuals who exemplify LIGHT’s values. The event was further enriched by the audio-visual presentation of LIGHT’s 10th-Year Theme, followed by the introduction of 2026 theme by Concepcion P. Diana, Executive Director, signaling continued growth and vision for the years ahead.
“Let us commit ourselves to God and His work, for we serve an audience of One. We must acknowledge that God has handpicked us, and we are called to give the best in our service — going beyond the transactional to foster transformational relationships, so that we may truly be a LIGHT.”
— Concepcion P. Diana, Executive Director
The program concluded with closing remarks by Atty. Antonio “Butch” P. Jamon Jr., leaving everyone inspired and grateful for a decade of God’s faithfulness, service, and transformational impact in communities across the Philippines.
“Alam ninyo kung gaano kahirap ang tinatahak nating landas. Kung hindi lang dahil sa mahigpit na pananampalataya natin sa Panginoon, hindi natin ito kakayanin.”
— Atty. Antonio P. Jamon Jr., Corporate Secretary
As LIGHT Microfinance Inc. looks toward the future, this milestone anniversary stands as a powerful reminder that ten years of unwavering faith and commitment have only laid the foundation for even greater things ahead — all for God’s glory and the continued transformation of lives.