University of Santo Tomas-Legazpi
The Premier Dominican University of Bicol
The Premier Dominican University of Bicol
On August 29, 2025, the UST-Legazpi community came together in prayer, music, and gratitude as they celebrated the 40th Sacerdotal Anniversary of Rev. Fr. Edwin A. Lao, OP, MM, DBA, Rector and President of the University. The milestone became not only a commemoration of his priestly journey but also a testimony to God’s enduring faithfulness in his life and ministry.
The day began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel, concelebrated by Dominican priests of the St. Raymond de Peñafort Convent. In his homily, Fr. Lao reflected on the biblical significance of the number forty, drawing parallels between the scriptural narratives and his own priestly vocation. “Forty years of journey in the priestly life deserve a pause, a reflection, and a time to give thanks,” he shared. “This anniversary is a proper setting for thinking backward, inward, and forward in my life as a priest.”
Fr. Lao spoke candidly of the challenges and graces of his priestly ministry, framing his journey through three resonant words: truth, love, and gratitude. He emphasized the Dominican call to preach the truth of Christ, which has guided him through the pulpit, school leadership, and countless pastoral encounters. “Truth without love is a cold, empty thing,” he admitted, acknowledging the balance his vocation demands.
His reflection also revealed the heart beneath the Rector’s often-serious demeanor. “You may only know Father Edwin as a strict and serious person. But believe me, deep in my heart, there is a soft spot filled with care and love for all of you. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be here,” he said.
As he looked back on four decades of ministry, gratitude emerged as the core of his message. “I am so grateful for the gift of this vocation… for the love and support of my own biological family and my religious family… and for all of you, the people of God, whom I have the honor of serving.”
The celebration continued at the Daragang Magayon Hall, where members of the Thomasian community expressed their love and admiration for their Rector and President. Selected students and employees delivered heartfelt messages of thanks, including Engr. Garrick B. Dado, the youngest university administrator and Director of the Physical Plant and Facilities Management Office. Music filled the hall as Ms. Karen M. Rosin, RL, MLIS, Director of Library and Information Services Office, and Ms. Noielle Rodriguez, a BA Communication student, serenaded the honoree.
For Fr. Lao, the anniversary was not so much a personal achievement but a celebration of God’s fidelity. “This afternoon’s gathering is a celebration, not so much mine, but of God’s fidelity to this priest,” he reminded the community. As the red-clad audience symbolized love and prayer, he humbly asked for their continued support: “Pray that I may continue to be a faithful servant, a bearer of truth, a channel of His love, and a witness to His immense goodness.”
As the University family looked back with him, the celebration became more than a marker of years; it was a collective thanksgiving for the life of a priest who has remained faithfully present — in moments of joy and sorrow, challenges and triumphs — answering again and again, “Here I am, Lord.”