Under the sterling stewardship of the late Senate President Marcelo B. Fernan, the organization undertook what seemed then like an insurmountable project – the building of a press center.
After almost three years, the Marcelo B. Fernan Press Center, aptly named in honor of Cebu’s advocate of truth and a believer of a democratic press, was formally inaugurated with the country’s lawmakers, such as Senate President Franklin Drilon, Senators John Osmeña and Edgardo Angara and Cebu Rep. Raul del Mar, together with several supportive friends and colleagues and CENEWOF members in attendance.
The logo of the foundation, which features a pen, a hand and a bird to symbolize press freedom, which was crafted by talented Adonis Durado, was unveiled. A bronze sculpture of Fernan by National Artist Napoleon Abueva was likewise uncovered on what would have been his 76th birth anniversary.
The Center, which houses a 242-seater mini-theater, conference and seminar rooms, media library and training laboratory with Internet facilities, will truly live up to its purpose as a multi-functional venue for media practitioners, journalists and the students of the discipline.
Let’s listen to what some of the guests had to say regarding Cebu’s latest pride:
Senate President Franklin Drilon: "Congratulations for once more leading the way and enhancing press freedom and media responsibility. It’s a world-class center."
Senator John Osmeña: "I’m very, very impressed and I would like to congratulate CENEWOF for this."
Senator Edgardo Angara: "Fantastic! It’s so functional and audience-friendly."
National Artist Napoleon Abueva: "The design of the Center is very impressive and elegant. Our congratulations to architect Ed Gallego for a project well done."
Cebu City Vice Mayor Michael Rama: "Superb!"
Educator Fr. Ernesto Javier: "It was really so much more than I expected! I expected nice but this is superb."
Community leader Ramon Osmeña: "Celing’s stature and reputation can benefit Cebu very much."
International concert pianist Ingrid Sala Santamaria: "Very convenient for both small affairs and concerts. Comfortable for audience."
Architect Maxwell Espina: "The building, like the invitation, was very creative and unique. It makes a definite statement."
Philippine STAR columnist Valeriano Avila: "At last, press freedom is concretized."
Writer Jude Bacalso: "Beyond remembering, it is realizing the beauty in our diversity that is worth celebrating."
CENEWOF president Pureza Oñate: "No date would have been more fitting than today to choose the opening of the MBFCPC for today is the 76th birth anniversary of the great Cebuano, Marcelo B. Fernan."
Former Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Marcel Fernan: "It will help uplift the workers’ education in print media."
Enterprising couple Bunny and Allen Pages: "We are honored to have known a great Cebuano in the person of Tito Celing. We are doubly honored by being a part of history – the blessing of the MBFCPC."
Student Marc Fernan III, ll years old: "Congratulations CENEWOF for your new building. It is very nice. The design is almost perfect. It is one of the best buildings I have ever seen. I wish my lolo were alive to see his own building. Thank you for being part of my lolo’s dream."