Media Release
Mangaluru, May 10: MCC Bank Ltd celebrated its 113th Founders’ Day at the administrative office campus on May 10 with a solemn and spirited gathering that highlighted the institution’s unwavering commitment to society since its inception. The celebration paid tribute to the legacy of the founder P F X Saldanha and recognized the bank’s continued progress and resilience in the cooperative sector.
The programme began with a prayer conducted by Deale D'Souza and team. A documentary on the history and progress of the bank was also presented.
The event was presided over by Sahakara Ratna Anil Lobo, chairman of the bank. Distinguished guests on the dais included Fr Denis D’Sa, PRO of Udupi diocese; Sr Clara Menezes, UFC, provincial superior of Mangalore province; Lionel Aranha, chartered accountant; Prof Hilda Rayappan, director of Prajna Counselling Centre; Stephen Menezes, president of Mangalore Konkans, Dubai; and Sunil Menezes, general manager of the bank.
In his welcome address, Anil Lobo warmly greeted the dignitaries, board members, staff, and guests. He highlighted MCC Bank’s transformation and its parity with nationalized banks in service and performance. He expressed deep admiration for Fr Denis D’Sa, lauding him as a source of inspiration and a symbol of professionalism. Lobo humbly refrained from detailing the bank’s accomplishments, acknowledging that they had already been well communicated.
The programme included a touching tribute to the bank’s founder, as dignitaries and members of P F X Saldanha’s family offered floral respects to his portrait.
In his keynote address, Fr Denis D’Sa congratulated the bank and delivered an inspiring message rooted in three core principles:
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Looking back with gratitude – celebrating the legacy and foundational values of the institution
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Looking within for self-evaluation – encouraging introspection through SWOT analysis and the courage to take risks
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Looking forward with trust in God – emphasizing faith and perseverance, drawing parallels with astronaut Sunitha Williams’ journey
He urged staff members to remain diligent, serve with empathy, and approach customers with a smile.
Charity contributions were distributed by the chairman to De Mercede Orphanage, Panir, and Shalom Trust, Kankanady, underlining the bank’s commitment to social responsibility.
Sr Clara Menezes released the annual bulletin, joined by editor Dr Gerald Pinto and sub-editor Shery Ashna. In her address, she praised the bank’s legacy and emphasized the importance of opportunity, patience, professionalism, and hard work in achieving sustainable growth.
Newly qualified chartered accountants, children of esteemed customers, were felicitated.
Prof Dr Edmund J B Frank of St Aloysius College and former chairman of MCC Bank; Marcel M D'Souza, former director of MCC Bank and Konkani writer; and Stephen Menezes, newly elected president of Mangalore Konkans, Dubai, were felicitated for their commendable service to the community.
CA Lionel Aranha presented a brief history of the bank, reminding attendees that success is not merely about results, but about the integrity and principles upheld in achieving them.
Customers who celebrated their birthdays in May were honoured.
Prof Hilda Rayappan, director of Prajna Counselling Centre, who has served society for the last 50 years, was also felicitated. In her response, she thanked the bank and emphasized the importance of empathy in service.
Directors Andrew D'Souza, Herold Monteiro, Anil Patrao, Roshan D'Souza, Melwyn Vas, Freeda D'Souza, Irene Rebello, Alwyn P Monteiro, Sharmila Menezes, Felix D'Cruz, Dr Gerald Pinto, and C G Pinto were present.
General manager Sunil Menezes proposed the vote of thanks and Grishma Melisha Saldanha from Neermarga compered the event.