If there is an award for a family that genuinely exemplifies the values, virtues, and core principles of outstanding Filipinos, I would be very honored to nominate the combined families of Atty. Eduardo R. Gullas, Dr. Jose R. Gullas, and Mrs. Gliceria R. Gullas vda. de Lucero.
While other clans are squabbling over wealth, inheritance, and ownership of family corporations, the Gullases have remained united, cohesive, and loyal to one another. They have remained faithful to the values instilled in them by the great visionary, Don Vicente Arandia Gullas and Lady Josefina Rivera Gullas.
Today, the third generation of Gullases lead and manage the great University of the Visayas, under the close and combined tutelage and guidance of Sir Eddie Gul, Sir Dodong, and Inday Sering. Why is the Gullas clan an outstanding model for us all?
The answers are summarized in eight core principles that bind the Gullas Family into one strong, united, and cohesive family. First and foremost is their abiding faith in God, their unadorned and unpretentious religiosity, their respect for the fundamental teachings of the scriptures, and their love for people as the best evidence of their love for the Almighty. Second, the Gullases have built UV as a strong foundation for nation-building.
The values instilled in the university are geared to make Visayanians not just God-fearing but also nation-loving citizens, being committed to contribute to the common dream of building a just and humane Philippines. UV prepares its students to become excellent community and political leaders as exemplified by Atty. Eduardo R. Gullas, who has served Cebu and the whole nation with competence, integrity, and commitment.
Third, the Gullases live on the credo that honor takes precedence over profits. UV is not a business enterprise but a lifetime advocacy that educating the young is the highest form of public service. Don Vicente, Sir Eddie, and Sir Dodong could have become business magnates and amassed tremendous wealth, power, and influence, but they preferred education as their lasting legacy to future generations.
Fourth, the Gullases adhere to the tenet that integrity is their most valuable asset. Because of this UV is perhaps the only institution that can borrow millions from any bank without any collateral; the name Gullas is worth more than a billion-peso bond.
Fifth, the Gullases are bound by their core belief that family harmony is the strongest foundation of happiness and peace. No intrigue, petty rivalry, credit-grabbing, and struggling for position and prestige. Don Vicente and Lady Josefina would be very proud of the Gullases today.
Sixth, the trademark of the Gullases is humility in words, behavior, actions, and interactions. Seventh is compassion for the poor and the powerless. Only the Gullases allow children of poor farmers, fishermen, and laborers to study, graduate, and pay much, much later, if at all.
Only this family offers scholarships to poor employees to study on scholarship and graduate without paying a cent at all. I should know whereof I speak. I was one of the lucky beneficiaries.
Eighth, the Gullases are the most grateful people. They always call to say “thank you” and write a note to express their gratitude. In a world of too much materialism, greed, and avarice, this family stands out as one shining exception. It is one of my life's blessings that I have known and had been known by the Gullases.