I would like to bid everyone a pleasant evening. I would like to share a quote that made an American television host, actress, producer, and philanthropist, best known for her self-titled, multi-award winning talk show, which has become the highest-rated program of its kind in history. She has been ranked the richest African American of the 20th century and beyond, the greatest black philanthropist in American history and was once the world’s only black billionaire. She is also, according to some assessments, the most influential woman in the world.
The key to realizing a dream is to focus not on success but significance – and then even the small steps and little victories along your path will take on greater meaning.
–Oprah Winfrey, O Magazine, September 2002
This quote was made by no other than Oprah Winfrey. And this quote, I believe, encapsulates the essence Rex Book Store Inc.’s beingwhich began with my mother Jovita and my fatherJuanito Fontelera. In 1950, this company was established with one thing in mind, to further the progress of Philippine education. Manong and Manangwerealso firm believersin the brilliance of the Filipinomind that led them to champion Filipino authors. Starting from one title, Rex Book Store Inc.’slibrary of books grew from one law book to thousands of titles across all levels and courses.But this growth was not realized by them alone, the blood, sweat,and tears of every dedicated individual who became part of this institution helped pave the way to success.The people who imbibed the same set of values that burned in the hearts of our founders.
-why Rex?-
60 years may seem a very long time, but for us who were there when it all began. It just seems like yesterday. I can still see how my father ran the company with the toughness of a top executive but gifted with the heart of a caring father.
There are a lot of things that I would like to emulate from my him. (way of working, dealing with people?)
Rex Book Store Inc. is still flourishing after 60 years because of our belief in the Filipino youth. His intelligence that can match anyone in this world, his passion that can move mountains, his love for country that continues to push boundaries of development, and his faith that gives him the strength and will to accomplish what no one thinks can be done.
Tonight we celebrate our partnership with you and the respective institutions that you represent. A partnership that mutually aims to bring the Filipino youth to his destiny.To be the best version of himself.To contribute to the positive development of not only our beloved country, the Philippines, but of the whole world. We would like to honor you, our beloved educators, who have molded our youth spanning several generations. It is a privilege to be of service to the people who put others before themselves. And tonight’s dinner is Rex Book Store Inc.’s own way of thanking you.
Tonight we will be a night full of entertainment, nostalgic smiles and thankfulness as we have prepared a special program for all of you.
It has already been 60 years yet everything still feels like new.Rex Book Store Inc. continues to be driven and invigorated by the unwavering supportand trust of our partners, you. Rest assured that from here onwards, we will carry on with providing you excellent educational materials, excellent service and genuine friendship.
Thank you very much and enjoy the rest of the evening.