48th University Service Awards special features: Jay Catalan

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Since 1978, Ateneo de Manila University has been honoring its employees with the University Service Awards, recognizing their dedication and commitment to the University’s mission.

Now in its 48th year, the University Service Awards continue to celebrate employees from all units whose service contributes to the growth and strength of the Ateneo community.

We’re excited to introduce some of this year’s awardees, who will share their stories, favorite places on campus, and reasons for staying at Ateneo. 

This is Jay Catalan, a fifteen-year service awardee from the Central Accounting Office.

Why Ateneo?
I choose Ateneo because for me, Ateneo is more than just a workplace. It is a community built on strong values, excellence and service.

Na inspire ako sa commitment ng University to form individuals not only intellectually but also morally and spiritually. Dito ko lang naranasan kung paano isinasabuhay ang Magis and Cura Personalis in everyday dealings and interactions with my colleagues. Being part of the institution that promotes competence and compassion has shaped me not just professionally but personally as well.

What keeps you going?
What keeps me going is the sense of purpose sa work ko and the people I work with every day. My role is very important kasi isa ako sa gumagawa o pagproseso ng sweldo, excited palagi kapag malapit na ang payday. Alam mo yung pakiramdam na, katatapos lang ng payday, pero after how many days may sweldo na naman. It motivates me to do my responsibilities with care and dedication. Kahit minsan challenging, minsan nawawala ang work life balance, but I always remind myself na my work contributes to the bigger mission of education and service.

Malaking factor din ang support nang aking supervisor and colleagues, over the years hindi lang professional relationship ang nabuo kundi parang Family na. The culture of teamwork and mutual respect pushes me to keep improving. Most importantly, the opportunity to grow, to become more mature, learning new skills, adapting to changes and facing new challenges keeps me motivated.

Favorite memory at work?
I remember moments during the tight deadlines and extended working hours every night. There is always unity and shared responsibility within the payroll team. I remember na parang overwhelming na sa sobrang dami ng payroll materials, pero because of teamwork and encouragement, nagiging successful pa rin ang outcome. Seeing the results of our hard work and knowing that we contributed something meaningful gives me a deep sense of fulfilment.

Favorite spot on campus?
Well, I have a lot of favorite spots on campus, nandyan ang Church of the GESU, College Chapel, but my most favorite spot is the 'Gubat Area" kung saan meron na ngayon red bricks or express lane ng E-Jeep. A quiet area surrounded by greenery and trees where I can pause and reflect tuwing Sunday pupunta ako sa Ateneo together with my wife para mag jogging, walking, I find comfort in these peaceful areas and simply breathe the fresh air, it gives me time to think and pray. Over the years, the campus has become a place full of meaningful memories and inspiration.

Most important lesson you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I learned in my 15 years at Ateneo is the value of integrity and service. Working in an institution rooted in strong moral principles taught me that excellence is not just about performance, but also about honesty, accountability and respect for others. Maliit man o malaki ang task na ibibigay sayo it matters because it contributes to a bigger mission. Being open to learning and maintaining a positive attitude helped me grow both professionally and personally. Most of all, I learned the importance of community because success is not achieved alone, it's built through teamwork, trust, and shared goals. Having said that, I'm truly grateful that Ateneo has been a place of continuous growth for me.