AWORD Advertising Design Solutions was founded by the late Salvador “Buddy” Pagaduan, Sr. under tHEart Corporation on January 10, 2020 as a business entity whose Vision and Mission are rooted upon the Scriptures. Born from humble beginnings, Buddy desired to become a priest. Youngest of 13 siblings, he manifested artistic abilities early in childhood when he would draw sketches of himself from his image in the mirror. At a young age, he would draw his mother as she sew clothes. Though he had special interest on the spiritual side, he envisioned himself to be a well-known painter someday.

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Compelled however by academic necessity, his inclination towards the Spiritual was relegated. He had to undergo schooling and so, after graduation from High School at St. Peter's Academy in Polangui, and following his artistic passion, he ventured to Manila to pursue college studies in the field of Arts. He went to FEATI University where he enrolled in Fine Arts Major in Advertising. He supported his studies as a working student, finding job in an advertising agency. With determination and perseverance, he graduated as Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1971. His profession led him to follow a promising career, working in advertising agencies and manufacturing companies where he learned the ropes of the trade while at the same time honing his competence as an advertising practitioner. He developed practical knowledge and skills the tedious way, through manual methods and sheer talent (this was before the advent of computer graphics which revolutionized the industry). In 1976, he worked freelance and put up a photo studio. This venture enabled him to learn business and entrepreneurship.

 

The years 1978 to 1995 were the “darkest years” of his life. And yet, the personal turmoil he encountered not only made him a stronger and better person but rekindled his spiritual consciousness which had lain dormant since his childhood.  He went back home to Albay where he started his successful advertising business. His experiences led him to seek the spiritual path which he had missed in his youth. In 2001, after deep prayer and fasting, he started to realize his mission: to assist the flock find life's meaning by spreading the Word of the Almighty, through Arts.

 

And so thus, Buddy's artworks convey profound spiritual meaning for the beholder to ponder upon. He used art as an instrument to bring the Gospel to people, especially to the younger generation. Though he did not become a priest, his chosen field (the Arts) has in more significant ways, fulfilled his vocation to serve God.

 

Providential as it was, Buddy organized and established AWORD company as a means to realize his spiritual calling and further his avowed mission to serve the Lord. January 15, 2021, he returned to his Creator peacefully.  AWORD is now managed by his son who continues his legacy and standard of service to the satisfaction of clients and customers.