The Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) has posthumously conferred the 2024 CMMA Serviam Award on the late Juan P. “Johnny” Dayang, veteran journalist, publisher, and lifelong advocate for ethical and faith-inspired media.
The Serviam Award—established in memory of CMMA founder Jaime L. Cardinal Sin—is given to media professionals whose lives exemplify Christian service, integrity, and communication anchored in faith. Dayang, who passed away on April 29, 2025, dedicated decades to uplifting Philippine media and strengthening institutions that champion responsible journalism.
A respected leader in the industry, Dayang served as CMMA Board Secretary, president of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), president of the Manila Overseas Press Club, and founding president of the Federation of Provincial Press Clubs of the Philippines. His public service included roles as UNESCO commissioner, Red Cross governor, and former mayor of Kalibo.
Dayang played a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of the CMMA, helping link Cardinal Sin with Ambassador Antonio Cabangon Chua in the organization’s formative years—a contribution he continued to nurture throughout his life.
“Our father was a staunch advocate of the Catholic Mass Media Awards,” said Juan E. Dayang, Jr., senior diplomat at the Philippine Embassy in Ankara, Turkiye. “It was his dream to see the CMMA thrive. Although I cannot be there in person, I am proud that his daughters will receive this award on behalf of our family, honoring a legacy that touched countless lives.”
Dayang was tragically killed at his home in Kalibo, Aklan, on April 29, 2025. His passing drew condemnation from national and international organizations.
“I condemn the killing of Juan Dayang and call for a transparent and thorough investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. Impunity for such crimes must not be tolerated as it only emboldens those who seek to silence journalists and prevent them from fulfilling their crucial role of informing the public,” UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said.
The 47th Catholic Mass Media Awards presented the Serviam Award posthumously to Juan “Johnny” Dayang in a ceremony held at the Citystate Tower Hotel, Ermita, Manila, on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 5:00 PM.
His daughters, Bernadette Dayang and Geraldine E. Dayang-Fernando, received the award on behalf of the Dayang family.
“This award honors our father’s life and work,” they said. “He lived by the principles of service, faith, and truth. We are proud to continue his legacy.”
