SU receives documentary film from the Magdamo Family
Silliman University (SU), represented by various units across campus, formally received a documentary film commissioned by Rolando and Helga Magdamo during a turnover ceremony held at the SU Presbyterian Mission Garden on April 11, 2025.
Set to be officially launched during SU’s 124th Founders Day celebration in August, the film explores the essence of the Silliman Spirit as seen through the eyes of students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mae Magdamo explained that the project was borne out of her uncle’s desire to strengthen the Silliman community’s shared values and identity, what her uncle described as “the bond of love that we share as Sillimanians.”
She recalled that he initially envisioned publishing a book compiling the inspirational, Cinderella-like success stories of Sillimanians, aiming to motivate younger generations to embrace the University’s unique character and core values. However, the scope of that project eventually proved overwhelming, prompting him to shift to a more dynamic medium.
“This is now the Magdamo gift we are about to unwrap this evening: a film on the Silliman Spirit,” she said.
The Magdamos tapped a Manila-based production team led by executive producer Stella Sison, with Silliman alumna and writer Luna Griño-Inocian serving as editorial adviser. Griño-Inocian noted that the decision to engage non-Sillimanians in the project was intentional, as it allowed for a fresh, outsider’s perspective. She shared that after just a few days of filming on campus, one crew member was so moved by the experience that he expressed a desire to relocate to Dumaguete.
Dr. Warlito S. Caturay Jr., chief of the Office of Media and Public Affairs, described the film as “a love letter to Silliman University.”
“It eloquently captures the enduring legacy of this institution and the deep affection its alumni have for their alma mater,” he said.
More than just a tribute, Caturay emphasized, the film serves as both a call and a reminder.
“It extends a heartfelt invitation for alumni to come home and relive the memories that shaped them, while speaking powerfully to our students about the true value of a Silliman education—one rooted in faith, excellence, and service.”
Digital copies of the film were distributed to key SU offices, including the Office of Media and Public Affairs, the Alumni and External Affairs Office, the Strategic Partnerships and Enterprise Development Office, the Office of Student Services, and the Robert B. and Metta J. Silliman Library.
The ceremony was attended by SU administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends of the Magdamo family.
The Magdamo Legacy
Aside from the film, the Magdamo couple have made other significant contributions to Silliman University. They funded the restoration of the historic Acacia Cottage, now named the Guillermo and Mercedes Magdamo Hall in honor of Rolando’s parents. The building is currently home to the Department of Religion and Peace Studies.
Located in front of Katipunan Hall, the Presbyterian Mission Garden, where the film was turned over, was also developed as a tribute to the University’s Presbyterian heritage. It features three rocks to representing the Presbyterian’s mission of “Teach,” “Preach,” and “Heal.”
Another gift is the Silliman Carillon Music System, a campus-wide feature that plays sacred melodies and gentle prayers at designated hours, enriching the spiritual rhythm of university life.
Rolando Magdamo’s ties to SU are deeply rooted. His father, Guillermo Magdamo, was one of the first three Filipino faculty members at Silliman, teaching Biology and conducting Bible classes. His mother, Mercedes Venturanza Magdamo, holds the distinction of being the first Filipino dean of SU’s School of Music.
