His life journey can be logically presented using the acronym of his name, B.E.N.J.A.M.I.N. Not by coincidence, this acronym reflects the personality we’ve come to know and love.

His BIRTH was God’s Plan

On March 8, 1934, a soul emerged, bringing joy and hope to Spouses Pedro and Salud Felicidad Dugay, both zealous church members. They named their second child Benjamin, perhaps after Jacob’s youngest son—the “son of thy right hand.” Though not initially the favorite child, Benjamin soon showed promising traits and skills. He personified a willingness to be used for God’s purpose within the Christian community.
His birth was a celebration of love and strength, a divine purpose from the start. With faith and conviction, he lived his mission, offering hope through his significant roles in four ministry institutions, which he served with beaming pride.
He was one of twelve siblings, four of whom passed away early in life. Only three reached or completed their tertiary education.

His EDUCATION was Challenging

His pursuit of education was a testament to perseverance and determination. Despite lacking infrastructure, roads, and transportation—and facing financial hardship—he walked long distances on unpaved and muddy roads, even crossing rivers to attend school.
The longing for secondary and tertiary education meant leaving his loved ones for months with only a small amount of money. Yet, his journey inspires others, showing the power of grit and hard work in overcoming adversity.

Educational Background and Seminars Attended:

• Elementary – Ragan Norte Elementary School, Tumauini, Isabela (1948)

• High School – Manuel L. Quezon Academy, Cabagan, Isabela (1951)

• College – University of the East, Manila (1955)

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

  • Major in Banking & Finance, Minor in Accounting

• Post-Study – Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary Agriculture (1977)

• Trainings:

  • Level-IV Training for Head Teachers (DepEd, 1977)

  • Barangay Integrated Development Planning (LGU-Isabela)

  • Local Fiscal Administration Course (LGU-Isabela, 1977)

  • Electric Cooperative Management Course (NEA, 1978)

His NURTURING was Amazing

All parents dream of a better future for their children. His parents’ love and Christian guidance made a lasting impact from childhood to old age. Their kindness and support shaped his character, instilling confidence, compassion, and devotion to Christian service—both in the secular world and within the church.
His nurturing was truly remarkable, the foundation of a life blessed and used by God.

His JOBS were Ordained

God opened doors for him to follow his career path, beginning with his CS-Professional eligibility as a Bookkeeper at FaCoMa and later at the Philippine Tobacco Administration (PTA).
But his calling went beyond a secure job. The PMCC-NL, under Charles and Roberta Selby, chose him to lead the founding of Northern Isabela Academy and Southern Isabela Academy in July 1967. Without hesitation, he resigned from government service and embraced the missionary call in Isabela.

His work inspired others, initiated positive change, and led to significant legacies such as the renaming of Aparri Christian Hospital to Charles W. Selby Memorial Hospital, and the co-founding of CICA in 1986—a vision shared with Eugenio V. Anza, marked by their donation of 2 hectares each to start the school. Today, CICA spans 9 hectares and boasts the highest enrollment among the schools.

Notable Roles:

1. Schools Treasurer & Finance Director (NIA & SIA)

2. Schools Comptroller (NIA, SIA & CICA)

3. President, Northern Isabela Academy

4. President, Charles W. Selby Memorial Hospital

5. Ex-Officio Member, Board of Trustees (NIA & CICA)

6. Secretary, Office of the Mayor & Sangguniang Bayan, Sto. Tomas

7. Member, Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Province of Isabela (1976–1980)

8. Secretary, Board of Directors, ISELCO II (18 years)

9. Barangay Captain, Calinaoan Centro, Sto. Tomas (1968–1986)

10. Founding President, Confederation of Isabela Churches of Christ (1998–2002)

ACHIEVEMENTS were Sublime

His success was a testament to a life lived with vision, perseverance, and a God-given calling. His accomplishments left a permanent mark on both the church and the community.
He was a man of action who expected results. His dream to raise a God-fearing family came true, as all of his children pursued education and service with the same love for God.

His children, from BEN-EST, became professionals:

1. Benjamin Jr. – BSAgricultural Engineering (President, CICA)

2. Emerson – BSBusiness Administration

3. Nanette – BSAgricultural Engineering (Vice President, SIA)

4. Estrelita (Baby) – BSAgriculture (Former Teacher at CICA & NIA)

5. Susan – BSEducation

6. Tess (Marites) – BSCommerce

His wife, the late Estrella Carlos Dugay, stood behind his every success, offering love, understanding, and sacrifices for the family and the mission.

His MINISTRY was Incomparable

His ministry brought great joy and fulfillment. He served with unwavering faith, compassion, and dedication—touching countless lives. His impact remains a beacon of love, hope, and spiritual growth.
He acted decisively in challenges and upheld the mission boldly. His 50 years of service were priceless, offering his time, health, and resources for the Kingdom. The decades-long survival and impact of these ministries testify to his enduring legacy.

His INTEGRITY was Unquestionable

Integrity guided his path. He lived by truth, responsibility, and a clear conscience.
A defining moment came when he was offered money at the Provincial Capitol—perhaps not a bribe, but an incentive. After discussing it with his family and feeling convicted, he left politics entirely, even turning down a more powerful role as Project Director.
He chose to honor God above all else. As Proverbs 20:7 says:

“The just man walketh in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.”

His NATURE was Unique

He was truly one of a kind. His genuine character, quirks, and passions made him unforgettable. His individuality inspired others to embrace their own uniqueness.
Known for his decisiveness, quick action, and firm convictions, he stood for what was right—even when unpopular. Joyful and humorous, yet disciplined and straightforward, he balanced warmth with accountability.
He knew his responsibilities and upheld the mission of PMCC with integrity and strength.
The quote, “No one finds life worth living; he must make it worth living,” is a fitting reflection of his journey.

“IT’S NOT WHO WE ARE UNDERNEATH, BUT WHAT WE DO THAT DEFINES US.” – Batman

As my Daddy closed his mission service with the PMCC in 2016, he reflected on a life filled with blessings and dedication. From the first call to serve to this very moment, every experience and challenge helped shape who we are.
This epilogue celebrates a life of faith, action, and love.

His 50-year journey is not just a number—it is a rich tapestry of growth, spiritual maturity, and commitment. His story teaches us that true service is a legacy, inspiring future generations to answer God’s call.
Now years old (as of March 8), he continues to serve in quiet ways—through kindness, wisdom, and compassion. We are all called to be missionaries in our own unique paths.

“Our fingerprints never fade from the lives we touch. We encounter different individuals in our journey—some make us happy, others sad. Some are easy to get along with; others may hurt us. But what truly matters is not what they did for us, but the good we did for them. Because of them, life has been meaningful.”
— Gordon B. Hinckley