March 31, 2025 – ASCOT proudly celebrated Noel “Ka Noel” Gusilatar as he marked both his 65th birthday and retirement at the Bulwagang Senator Edgardo J. Angara Upper Deck, ASCOT Zabali Campus.

For 26 years, Ka Noel served as ASCOT’s devoted driver, ensuring the safe travel of faculty, staff, and students. Starting with no fixed salary under the leadership of ASCOT’s first president, Dr. Benny A. Palma, he earned only ₱165 per trip, yet his commitment remained unwavering. More than just a driver, he became a father figure, an older brother, and a friend to the entire ASCOT community.

Engr. Oscar C. Barawid Jr., PhD, ASCOT’s Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Finance, delivered the welcome remarks, acknowledging the dedication and sacrifices of Ka Noel. He stated, “Napakahirap palakihin ang mga anak nang mag-isa—isang pagmamahal na walang kapantay. At nakita natin ang ganoong malasakit at pagmamahal kay Kuya Noel.”

ASCOT Supervising Administrative Officer, Ma’am Cynthia D. Macose, shared touching memories of Ka Noel’s dedication and attention to detail. She recalled, “Si Papa Noel, kapag may biyahe, sinisigurado niyang malinis at mabango ang sasakyan. Lagi siyang presentable sa bawat biyahe. Napakabubuting tao ng mga driver ng ASCOT, at isa na riyan si Papa Noel.”

ASCOT College Librarian, Ma’am Mardelyn Barrogo, his close friend, expressed her fondness, saying, “Si Noel ang pinakapaboritong ibigay na driver sa amin ng mga sisters ko. Isa siyang mabuting katrabaho, kaibigan, at kapatid—hindi lang sa ASCOT kundi pati sa labas ng paaralan. Makikita ninyo kung gaano kabuting tao si Noel sa paraan ng pagpapalaki niya sa kanyang pamilya—nakikita namin ito sa kung paano nila kami itinuring na bahagi rin ng kanilang pamilya.”

ASCOT’s First President, Dr. Benny A. Palma, also shared a heartfelt message through a video recording, wishing him a happy birthday and playfully welcoming him to his “new citizenship”—senior citizenship.

Ka Noel then expressed his gratitude, saying, “Maraming salamat sa lahat ng inyong pagmamahal at suporta. Hindi ko po makakalimutan ang bawat sandali ng pagtulong at pag-aalaga ninyo sa akin. Ang ASCOT ang naging paraan upang mapagtapos ko ang mga anak ko at matustusan sila sa lahat ng pangangailangan namin. Maraming maraming salamat ASCOT.”

As he entered retirement, colleagues and friends wished him joy, relaxation, and new adventures, knowing his legacy of kindness and dedication would live on at ASCOT.

Thank you, Ka Noel! Your legacy will always be remembered.