Archt. John Paul M. Aloy, a graduate of the Ateneo de Davao University School of Engineering and Architecture (AdDU-SEA), has notched 8^th place at the 2018 Architect Licensure Exams held last June with a score of 82.50%. Including Archt. Aloy, thirty-two out of forty graduates from the University passed the exams, whose collective scores resulted in an 80% passing rate for AdDU compared to the nationwide passing rate of 55%. The AdDU-SEA also registered a passing rate of 88.24% for its first-time takers, with thirty graduates passing from a pool of thirty-four.

In an interview to discuss his present success, Archt. Aloy celebrated his Lumad roots, as a proud Obu-Manuvu, as well as the fulfillment of his lifelong dream to become an architect. “I was really fascinated by the remarkable forms and styles of the buildings,” he said. “In college I was then hesitant to take Architecture, and it was my parents who first gave their intimate support.” He also acknowledged the effort and dedication necessary to pursue one’s dreams and, eventually, to fulfill them.

Archt. Aloy also paid gratitude to the education he received from the Ateneo, including the value of persistent work towards excellence which the University instills as a vital principle in its students. “Ateneo helped me…know myself more, to have a self-identity and recognize my potentials,” he said. “The University produces not just globally competitive graduates but also servant leaders.”

According to Archt. Aloy, his plans for the immediate future include working for an architectural firm with the ultimate goal of starting his own firm someday. “To gain experience and to start to earn and save money,” he said. Also included in these plans is a return to the academe, this time preferably as a teacher at the Ateneo de Davao, with the hope of giving back to future architects the first-rate education he had received.

“I would like to contribute to the preservation, propagation, education, and appreciation of our culture,” Archt. Aloy said, citing his Lumad heritage. He also reaffirmed his commitment to aid in the upkeep of the environment by working with green designs; incidentally, he also gave an assurance of his work towards pursuing social justice and the common good through following ethical practices in his profession. “I can contribute to the preservation and the education of the Filipino on Mindanawon culture and heritage through incorporating [indigenous cultural elements] into my architectural designs,” he said when asked how best he can serve his community as an Atenean architect.

His advice to future architects consists of persevering through the hardships life throws their way and of continuing to pursue excellence despite all obstacles. “Let us not be gratified with mediocrity,” he said.

The Ateneo de Davao University prides itself with the sterling education it provides all who enter its halls, which brilliant teaching is delivered by the top-notch faculty members it employs. In this case, the University also recognizes the School of Engineering and Architecture (SEA) faculty, including Dean Randell Espina, Archt. Willy Policarpio, and the rest of the Architecture family.

(Photos taken from Archt. Aloy’s Facebook page)

The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) held a live simulcast of the 2018 State of the Nation Address (SONA) by President Rodrigo Duterte, delivered from the Batasang Pambansa, at the 3^rd Floor Pakighinabi Room; 8^th Floor Training Room; and at the Main Library, American Corner, and the Miguel Pro Learning Commons at the Jacinto campus last Monday, 23 July 2018. A panel of analysts composed of faculty and students from the different departments and student organizations of the Ateneo de Davao sat in the Pakighinabi Room and gave live analysis of the SONA through Pre- and Post-SONA Conversations.

At the Pre-SONA Conversation, the analysts shared their expectations and predictions about the possible subjects which the President might discuss in his speech. Prof. Ramon Beleno III of the AdDU Political Science Department listed the possible subjects he expected Pres. Duterte to discuss, which were “charter change and federalism, the state of the Marawi rehabilitation, and the connection of the TRAIN Law and the admin’s infrastructure program.” In addition, President of the AdDU SAMAHAN Mr. Jerry Huerbana said that he expected “updates about peace and order especially in the context of extra-judicial killings,” and “updates on the development of the Lumad communities in light of human rights abuses and exploitation.” There were also opinions given related to the possible ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), formerly the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). “How will the President reconcile the editing of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, considering his promise not to allow any editing in his previous SONA?” Mr. Jorjani Sinsuat, President of the Campus Clubs Organization (CCO) asked. “Why wasn’t he able to push both Houses of Congress? We heard nothing from him.”

The analysts also reacted to the breaking news of ex-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ousting Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez as Speaker of the House—becoming the first woman speaker—just hours before the SONA, delaying the event by an hour and a half. Fr. Ulysses Cabayao, S.J., from the AdDU Anthropology Department, diagnosed this event as an “indication of how weak our systems really are,” and added that he was not surprised that CGMA has regained power, saying, “We cannot discount how vengeance is a powerful motivation for politicians to return to power.” Also chiming in was Dr. Anderson Villa of the AdDU International Studies Department, who said “We all know historically that our own politicians keep coming back even after numerous controversies.” Professor of Economics Ms. Mildred Estanda also said that “this kind of politics is reflective of the people who voted for them [the politicians].” “CGMA still has people loyal to her in Congress,” Prof. Beleno said. “Allying with her will solidify majority support for the administration in the House.”

After the SONA, Director of the AdDU Center of Politics and International Affairs (CPIA) Prof. Neil Ryan Pancho expressed satisfaction that Pres. Duterte discussed rising prices of goods, particularly rice. “That’s what the people want to hear,” he said. “I expect a crackdown soon on rice smugglers and rice cartels.” Jamrell Buynay of the school organ Atenews, however, was dismayed that the President stressed the continuation of his notorious War on Drugs, that it will be as “relentless and chilling” as when it began. “These are real people and not just numbers,” she said.

“In presenting himself as a worker of government, he reinforces a populist ideology—the people against the ‘corrupt elite,’” Fr. Cabayao, S.J. said, remarking on the President’s effects on political discourse in the country, and the irony in his self-presentation as a humble worker of government. “In reinforcing this populist ideology, you are not recognizing what is happening on the ground: the ones caught up in your operations are the common people.”

Overall, the analysts assessed this year’s SONA as generally successful, grading it from B to B+. They cited the “more sanitized manner” with which Pres. Duterte delivered his speech—it contained no curse words or profanities, a considerable change for the president who has built his political reputation on his colorful language. Of the speech, Mr. Sinsuat said, “My grade for the SONA is 85%. That’s the percent of the original BBL remaining in the BOL, so that’s my grade.” Also helping to cap off the conversation was Dr. Villa’s statement and call to every Filipino to respond to the SONA. “He [Duterte] wants to change the system but the bureaucracy has been there since colonial times,” Dr. Villa said. “The Filipinos should not wait to effect change—they should be its agents.”

Other members of the panel include Mr. Joshua Tañola, representing the AdDU Political Science Cluster; Mr. Alexander Quilaton of the AdDU Economics Society; Internal Vice President of the AdDU Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Agham Pulitika (SAMAPULA) Mr. Kyre Fernandez; and Mr. Roawie Quimba of the AdDU Committee Against Illegal Drugs (CAID). Chair of the AdDU Theology Department Mr. Lunar Tan Fayloga moderated the discussion.

The discussion on the SONA is done annually so that the University community might be engaged with national politics and discover the ways it affects them, whether directly or indirectly, positively or negatively, as well as to gather insights and commentary on the general direction of the country for the next twelve months which is plotted in the SONA.

Ms. Ayessa Marie Velasquez, Coordinator of the Ateneo de Davao Academy of Lifelong Learning (ADD-ALL), attended the international conference titled “Meeting the Emerging Needs of Adult Learning Professionals” at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), University of Toronto, Canada, last 9-20 July 2018. Including Ms. Velasquez, only thirty applicants were accepted into the conference out of around eighty applicants from different schools in the Philippines. Globally, Canada leads in the field of lifelong learning and adult education.

Conducted through partnership between the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the conference also discussed the collaborative “Adult Education Training Program: Inclusive and Responsive Programs Empowering Adult and Lifelong Learners.” The program means to gather “measurable improvements in adult learning” by giving its participants “contextual background, theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and best practices” that would help them conceptualize and implement “effective instructional strategies and curriculum.” Through this program, the thirty selected faculty from the Philippines will be able to “identify the niche and specific clientele of their adult education program,” and “develop/improve syllabi and curriculum for the specific adult education program.”

Part of the conference was a professional tour around the many different schools and colleges in the area, including George Brown College and Seneca College, where the participants performed benchmarking and learned these schools and colleges’ best practices for use in their own schools. There were also extensive talks and panel discussions with leading figures in adult education, discussing the current trends in the field as well as the commercial aspect of lifelong learning. The participants also joined in group activities designed to help them develop instructional designs and curriculum frameworks for their own adult learning courses back home.

“Lifelong learning enriches life for all,” Ms. Velasquez said, after her return to the Philippines, remarking on the purpose and goals of the ADD-ALL program. “[ADD-ALL] inspires, engages, and enables our adult learners to achieve their goals, and we want them to have the skills to enhance their personal development, we want to get them to become active citizens, and we want them to improve their employability.”

The ADD-ALL program is the new, affordable, and exciting academy offered by the Ateneo de Davao University for learners aged twenty-five and above.  ADD-ALL offers both professional and personal development tracks comprising non-degree short courses for adult learners. These short courses feature fun classes that will help people learn new skills, develop new hobbies, and meet new friends. The program also integrates technopreneurship into selected courses to help learners earn from their passions through creating start-up business models for new ventures. Classes had begun on 9 June 2018.

ADD-ALL courses on offer this July for the second batch of adult learners include Floristry, Basic Polymer Molding, Terrarium and Aerarium 101, Web Design, Swimming for Adults, Pencil Portraiture, Basic AutoCAD, Basic Portrait Photography, Building Electrical Wiring, Accounting for Non-accountants, and High Impact Business Communication.   The first batch of courses offered in June included Swimming, Floristry, Basic Makeup, Acrylic Painting, and Creative Writing.

Interested applicants may reach ADD-ALL through their Facebook (www.facebook.com/lifelonglearningaddu), Twitter (www.twitter.com/addu_all), email (lifelonglearning@addu.edu.ph), or landline (082-221-2411 local 8296). Applicants may also visit the ADD-ALL office located at the Office of the President, G/F Canisius Hall, Ateneo de Davao University, Jacinto Campus.

Last week, on 24 July, the city of Jolo became the victim of a horrific conflagration that lasted for 10 hours and ultimately razed 2,801 houses (these houses mostly stilt-houses built along the shoreline of Bus-Bus and Lambayong). The human toll of this catastrophe included 17,519 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). They are now being sheltered in five evacuation centers around the city, including the Notre Dame of Jolo College Gym. The Notre Dame of Jolo also reports that 300 of its students and 15 of its personnel have lost houses and property to the fire. Some of the victims of the inferno are from the poorest sectors of the city: tribespeople of the Sama and the Badjau.

The Ateneo de Davao University appeals to the kindness and mercy of its University community, whose values were forged by its proud Ignatian tradition of being “men and women for others,” and by the University mission of service to society in the pursuit of social justice and the common good. The University implores everybody in the community—from its faculty, staff, and students—to contribute to our #Help4Jolo fund which we will donate to our sisters and brothers in Jolo, especially those pushed even further to the margins by this tragedy, so that they can recapture even a hint of normalcy in these trying times and so that they can have a foot to stand on once they start trying to recover all that they have lost. They will, after all, need to rebuild their houses and they will, after all, need to buy their basic necessities.

As such, donations of any amount will be accepted. Personal contributions from the faculty, staff, and students to their respective unit, department, office, and organization directors are welcome. Donors from different units may also leave their donations as offerings in the Holy Mass. No matter how little your individual contributions may be, rest assured that all of it will add up to a meaningful and substantial donation. You will have helped the least of our sisters and brothers—and this is what truly matters. For it is as our Lord Jesus Christ tells us in the Gospel, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me…‘Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of my brothers, you did it to me” (Matt. 25:35-40).

The Ateneo de Davao University invites the community to attend the opening of the architecture exhibit titled “MUHON: Traces of an Adolescent City,” on Tuesday, 14 August 2018, at the Rodriguez Hall, Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto Campus, at 1:30 p.m. An exhibition walk-through with the curators and participating artists will follow at 2:30 p.m., after which a primer lecture on the process of the creation of the exhibit will take place at the Pakighinabi Room, 3rd Floor Community Center, at 3:30 p.m.

This exhibit is brought to you by the National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA), in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Office of Senator Loren Legarda; also in partnership with the Metropolitan Museum of Manila and the Ateneo de Davao University.

This exhibit is also the official Philippine participation at the 15th International Architecture Exhibition of la Biennale di Venezia.

“MUHON: Traces of an Adolescent City” will be open from 14 August to 12 October 2018.

Admission is free.

The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) hosted an architecture exhibition titled “MUHON: Traces of an Adolescent City,” on Tuesday, 14 August, at the Rodriguez Hall of the Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto campus. This exhibition was the official Philippine entry to the 15^th International Architecture Exhibition last 2016; the AdDU hosting signaled the third leg of the nationwide homecoming tour of the exhibit, beginning in the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, and passing through the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod City. Heading the event were members of the MUHON (or “marker”) curatorial team, Mr. Juan Paolo de la Cruz and Mr. Sudarshan V. Khadka, Jr. Participating artists Mr. Poklong Anading and Mr. Tad Ermitaño were also present at the event.

A formal reception opened the exhibit, which was followed by a walk-through with Mr. de la Cruz. All of this was followed by a Primer Lecture on the creation process behind the exhibition, at the Pakighinabi Room of the 3^rd Floor of the Community Center, delivered by the curatorial team and the artists.

“The [Fr.] Merlin Thibault [S.J.] muhon, just like this muhon, was a primal act of marking a fixed point of Ateneo’s existence in space and time, staking its claim and mission in Davao and in Mindanao,” Executive Vice President Jeremy S. Eliab said in his opening remarks at the reception, connecting the principles of the exhibit—of celebrating markers and monuments—to the Seventieth Anniversary of the University this 2018. “[The Thibault muhon] also affirms the commitment of the Jesuit mission for Davao and Mindanao,” Mr. Eliab continued. “This year, we mark the 70^th Foundation Anniversary of the Ateneo de Davao; this year we also celebrate the Merlin Thibault muhon.”

Structurally, the exhibit is divided into three parts, denoting the “History,” “Modernity,” and “Conjecture” regarding the architecture of Metro Manila, tapping its connections to the socioeconomic situation befalling its present citizens. The exhibit proper chooses nine muhon or landmarks in Metro Manila and solicits artists to abstract the markers to reflect the three stages in the city’s historical and architectural development. These markers are the Pasig River, the Pandacan Bridge, the Ramon Magsaysay Building, Makati Stock Exchange, Kilometer Zero (across Luneta Park), Tahanang Pilipino, the Manila Mandarin Hotel, Binondo, and the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). From the exhibit description, MUHON considers Metro Manila as an “adolescent city,” rising “from the ruins of an older colonial city leveled by the Second World War,” into a “re-born capital…in flux.” The exhibit, finally, is an “attempt to understand a city’s identifying markers…” and “it aspires to be a platform for a collaborative and collective act of reflection about a built environment on the brink of vital renewal or irreversible decay.”

“MUHON: Traces of an Adolescent City” was facilitated by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, as well as in partnership with the Metropolitan Museum of Manila and the Ateneo de Davao University. The exhibit is open from 14 August to 12 October 2018 at the Rodriguez Hall. Admission is free.

The Ateneo de Davao University is opening enrollment for its brand-new course Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering for this school year 2018-2019. This course is open to all students who wish to be at the forefront of our continued advance toward further understanding of the relationship between Earth and space such as monitoring atmospheric conditions and other related phenomena. Students will also be equipped with the skills to design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and rockets.

Enrollment is open until 25 August 2018.

For inquiries, please contact the College Admission and Aid Office at this number (082) 221-2411 loc. 8303, or email them at admissions@addu.edu.ph.

The Ateneo de Davao University inaugurates the newly finished Calungsod-San Vitores Jesuit-Lay Collaboration Center, at the 11^th Floor of the Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto campus, with a Pakighinabi session on “The Bill of Rights and Non-State Actors in the Proposed Federalist Constitution,” in the afternoon of Thursday, 23 August 2018. A noted scholar on political philosophy, Fr. Patrick Riordan, S.J., was the lead discussant in the Pakighinabi conducted in the eponymous hall of the Calungsod-San Vitores Center.

University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J. delivered the opening remarks of this inaugural Pakighinabi, which is part of the year-long celebration of the University’s 70^th Anniversary in 2018. “Of the many first companions honored in this community center, we honor here the first Filipino—the Bisaya saint, Pedro Calungsod, and the Spanish missionary, Blessed Fr. Diego San Vitores, who both suffered martyrdom at the hands of the Chamorros in Guam in 1672,” Fr. Tabora said. “We honor Calungsod and San Vitores for paying for their religious convictions with their lives, and celebrate here our first Filipino saint, Pedro Calungsod, with the indigenous motif of this hall and its T’boli t’nalak-inspired accents.”

After the opening remarks, Fr. Riordan began the conversation, looking into another aspect of the controversial push of the current administration to shift the country’s government from presidential to federal. Describing the evolution of the modern conception of the State, Fr. Riordan said, “People would consent to the formation of government, for the purpose of protecting rights; to deliver them from the inconveniences of the state of nature.” He also points to the inability of the state of nature to properly address the issue of rights. “[The state of nature] lacks settled, known law; the lack of an impartial adjudicator; and the lack of a strong enforcer,” he said. And in a comment on the functions of a strong state, he added, “With a strong state, the sovereign power makes and applies laws to secure citizens’ interests against fellow citizens, non-citizens, and foreign powers.”

“The inclusion of non-state actors within a bill of rights confuses two aspects best kept separate: the strong state, and the good state,” Fr. Riordan argued. He notes in his argument the “complexity of rights-language,” the consistent rhetorical position of President Rodrigo Duterte regarding the prosecution of his infamous anti-crime campaign (“I care for human lives, not human rights”), and the international relations of the Philippines with other states.

Reacting to the argument were a set of reactors, comprising teachers and students of the University. On the topic of state protection of human rights, Dr. Arnella Clamor of the AdDU Theology Department said, “I ask myself why we do not do more to protect human rights in political discourse. I think the most important thing here is that human rights are respected and protected, whether by or from state or non-state actors.”

The SAMAHAN President, Mr. Jerry Huerbana, also chimed in on behalf of the AdDU student body, saying, “It is a challenge to encourage the youth to participate and discourse on this issue, considering that we are supposed to be at the forefront of these kinds of changes.”

Finally, the President of the Ateneo de Davao Blue Knight Alumni Association Ms. Ma. Rossana Fernandez gave a response, stating as well that it comes from a layperson’s perspective. “I appreciate the highlighting of the burden placed on the normal citizen to protect their own rights,” she said. “I would like to understand federalism as a normal citizen.”

Completing the set of reactors at the panel discussion was Mr. Jose M. Tomacruz of the Philosophy Department; Atty. Edgar Pascua II, University Registrar; Mr. Ramon Beleno III, Chair of the Political Science and History Department; Ms. Mina Limbaga, Secretary General of SAMAHAN; Dr. Eminel Jane Alvior, Chair of the Governance Department; Dr. Lenore Loqueloque, Director of the Ateneo Resource Center for Local Governance; Atty. Arnold Abejaron, Director of the Ateneo Public Interest and Legal Advocacy (APILA); Mr. Mark Paul Samante, Chair of the University Community Engagement and Advocacy Council (UCEAC); and Dr. Gina Montalan, the Academic Vice President.

On the lead discussant, Fr. Patrick Riordan, S.J. is a lecturer teaching philosophy, politics, and ethics at Heythrop College in London. He has published various articles on subjects such as Human Dignity, Natural Law, Business Ethics, and the Just War Theory in the context of terrorism. His research interests also include the Common Good, Religion in Public Life, and the Philosophy of Justice.

The Pakighinabi is a conversation series initiated by the Office of the President of the Ateneo de Davao University to provide members of the university community a platform to discuss multidisciplinary issues and concerns in a more informal and conversational manner. Its goal is to create a structure for conversations in the frame of social justice and the common good in the pursuit of forming AdDU sui generis leaders.

The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) formally opened the exhibit of the National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) called “Haligi ng Harayang Filipino: Orden ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining at Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan,” in the afternoon of 8 September 2018 at the Arrupe Hall, Jacinto campus. Following that, on 10 September, on the same time and at the same venue, the University also hosted an Artist Talk from National Artist for Music Dr. Ramon P. Santos, as well as live demonstrations and performances by National Living Treasures Ambalang Ausalin and Uwang Ahadas. Ausalin showed the gathered audience the skills and techniques involved in weaving the intricately patterned Yakan cloth; while Ahadas played the kulintang before the students, teachers, and guests.

University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J. delivered the opening remarks at the Exhibit Opening, while Vice President for Quality Assurance and Planning Ms. Suzette D. Aliño welcomed the audience to the Artist Talk. “On the occasion of the 70^th Anniversary of our Ateneo de Davao University,” Fr. Tabora said, “we are honored and happy to celebrate the achievements of our National Artists, through painting, song, music, dance, and other creative skills and crafts—celebrate what is distinctively true.” Following Fr. Tabora’s remarks were the addresses from the Deputy Executive Director of the NCCA Marichu Tellano, and the NCCA Executive Director Mr. Rico S. Pableo, Jr.

Dance performances from groups representing the many Lumad peoples of Mindanao formed the bulk of the exhibit opening. Beginning the performances was the Blaan Di Amatutung Performing Arts Ensemble from South Cotabato, with their native Blaan dance. Next were the Yakan Family Ensemble, who performed the Yakan pangalay, with live accompaniment from Uwang Ahadas. Finally, the last performance of the event came from the Keheligal Dance Troupe from South Cotabato, gracing the audience with a rendition of a traditional Tboli dance.

“[The Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan] is for Filipino citizens engaged in traditional art uniquely Filipino,” Ms. Aliño said, opening the Artist Talk. “[The GAMABA recipient] should have distinctive skills and have reached a high level of technical excellence,” she continued, “which has been passed on to and widely practiced by the present generation in his or her community with the same degree of technical or artistic competence.” Ms. Aliño ended her remarks by exhorting more AdDU students to come and visit the exhibit while it lasts. “Traditional folk art is part of our heritage,” she said.

Following her address was another series of performances, this time mixed with renditions of works composed by National Artists for Music. Members of the Ateneo de Davao University Chorale began the event with their interpretation of the Filipino folk song “Ay Kalisud,” which was first sung by Jovita Fuentes in 1919. Next came Mr. Josh Lintag of the Ateneo Repertory Company, who gave a violin performance of National Artist for Music Nicanor Abelardo’s composition “Bituing Marikit.” After that, the AdDU Sidlak Performing Arts Collective danced to an original composition by guest National Artist for Music Dr. Ramon P. Santos, accompanied by the kulintang.

Composer, conductor, and musicologist Dr. Santos detailed his musical journey from the Philippines to the States and back, during which he parlayed his interest in the emerging “computer music” of the 70s to his study of Filipino folk music, which he used to compose masses and rituals.

National Living Treasure Ambalang Ausalin, a master Yakan textile weaver from Lamitan, Basilan, came next and demonstrated with the help of her daughters the skills and techniques necessary to weave a Yakan cloth; while an NCCA representative described the nuts and bolts, as well as the cultural provenances and meanings, of the techniques and elements of Yakan weaving. Uwang Ahadas then followed with a live performance of the kulintang, where he was also joined by his family of musicians.

With this exhibit, Ateneo de Davao University hopes to attract more students to appreciate the traditional arts coming from Mindanao, and to deepen their understanding of their place and role in preserving their local culture for future generations.

The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) held a Pakighinabi titled “The Human Person: Subject of Religious Freedom” in the afternoon of 17 September 2018 at the Calungsod-San Vitores Jesuit-Lay Collaboration Center, 11th Floor of the Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto campus. Sitting as lead discussant was Jesuit professor of Catholic Theology and Islamic Studies Fr. Felix Körner, S.J. In order as well to highlight the willingness of the University to engage in interreligious dialogue and in the spirit of the Pakighinabi, the University also invited representatives from the Buddhist and Sikh communities of Davao City to sit as reactors.

Fr. Körner opened the discussion by describing the primary qualities of both Islam and Christianity, especially their main messages. “Muslims could state that the Qur’an is calling people to responsibility,” he said. “Christians could say that we are to be transformed into a new life.” He went on to narrate the history of religious freedom in the world, starting from the 19th century through to the Protestant Reformations and eventually reaching 1948, when the UN General Assembly issued the General Declaration of Human Rights.

“You cannot force somebody else to believe, that is not the heart’s fire of love,” Fr. Körner said, explaining the required spontaneity of faith and the phenomenon of religious conversion. “You cannot force yourself to love,” he continued, “you cannot force yourself to believe.” Noting the example of St. Paul, he said, “Paul describes it perfectly as being ‘seized.’”

In terms of the intrinsic nature of human dignity, Fr. Körner said, “Dignity is what human beings always have, not because of what they do, but simply because they are human beings.” Fr. Körner also segued onto a discussion of Islam and its openness to religious freedom. He opened the discussion with a description of the historical relationship between Muslims and other religions. “Muslim polities historically were more welcoming to the Jews and Christians compared to Jewish and Christian polities,” Fr. Körner said.

“Can Muslims argue for human rights philosophically?” Fr. Körner asked. “Yes, it is possible.”  Fr. Körner cited one verse of the Qur’an that “speaks of the religious diversity wanted by God,” explaining further that “the Qur’an presents coercions related to faith as contradictory to faith.” Concluding his talk on Islam, and noting the warmth and benevolence of God to all people, Fr. Körner said, “The Qur’an presents God as one who addresses people, invites them to belief,” and he continued, “He does not steer them like puppets; He speaks to them, He advertises, He suggests.”

Near the end of his talk, Fr. Körner wondered about the possible steps to be taken to address the “mentality that does not allow the practice of other religions” under the newly signed Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL). He passed the task onto political scientists and theologians. “Political scientists can provide helpful context about how religions can shape the world where the State has a monopoly on the use of force,” Fr. Körner said. “Religion, then, is a soft power.” As for the work of theologians, Fr. Körner said, “Political theologians remind us that religious are not to be the functionaries of the State,” and continued, “religion is the interlocutor of politics, reminding the leaders of the limits of their capacities.”

Reacting to Fr. Körner’s talk is Ustadz Janor Balo, Head of the AdDU Islamic Studies Program. “Islam endorses and proclaims that God created people in the natural state—the state of freedom,” he said, concurring with Fr. Körner. “There shall be no compulsion in religion.”

Mr. Jess Figuracion, Jr., representing the Buddhist community of Davao City and their organization Soka Gakkai International, cited the UN Declaration of Human Rights and called it the UN’s “greatest gift to humanity.” He also described the contemporary period as the “time for soft power, so everyone can have understanding.”

Concluding the line of reactors is the Chair of the Al Qalam Institute Datu Mussolini Lidasan, who addressed the future challenges facing the BOL, if it is implemented. “The BOL recognizes freedom of religion,” he said. “But the challenge here is for the people to follow the spirit of the law. Some quarters, like the LGBT, wonder if their rights will be respected under the BOL. It is a challenge,” he admitted.

Other reactors at the Pakighinabi were the Sikh representatives of the Davao Indian Temple; Fr. Ramon Prudencio Toledo, S.J., Director of the AdDU Information Technology Office (UITO); and Prof. Arnella Clamor of the AdDU Theology Department. Chairperson of the Theology Department Mr. Lunar Tan Fayloga moderated the discussion.

Fr. Felix Körner himself is a Jesuit professor of Catholic Theology and Islamic Studies at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, an academic institution founded in 1553 by St. Ignatius of Loyola, now famous for its mission to form future leaders of the new universal Church from more than 120 countries. Fr. Körner also holds a doctorate in Islamic Studies and has lived in Syria and Turkey for his research. After receiving a second doctorate in Catholic dogmatics, he was called to the Pontifical Gregorian University to be a lecturer on the Catholic faith, intra-Christian dialogue, and Muslim-Christian relations. He is also a member of the Commission for Religious Relations with Muslims, of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue.

The Pakighinabi is a conversation series initiated by the AdDU Office of the President to provide members of the university community with a platform to discuss multidisciplinary issues and concerns in a more informal and conversational manner. Its goal is to create a structure for conversations in the frame of social justice and the common good in the pursuit of forming AdDU sui generis leaders.

The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) opened the art exhibit titled “La Sagrada Familia: A Sacred Art Exposition” in the afternoon of 25 September 2018 at the Miguel Pro Learning Commons, 2^nd Floor of the Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto campus. This exhibit featured works by Bro. Edgardo Hugo Campos, FSF, an Argentine brother of the Brothers of the Holy Family, who has decorated the chapels and altars in various churches in Davao City, where he lives. Also co-presenting this event was the Embassy of the Argentine Republic, and gracing the opening was the Argentinian Ambassador His Excellency Jose Nestor Ureta.

University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J., who delivered the opening remarks, said that the exposition also is part of the celebration of the University of its 70^th anniversary as a “Filipino, Catholic, and Jesuit university” in 2018, which also happens to coincide with the 70^th year of diplomatic relations between the republics of Argentina and the Philippines.

H. E. Ureta took the stage following Fr. Tabora, and he also thanked the University for joining the celebration of the two countries’ diplomatic ties. He also cited the work done by Bro. Campos, particularly his artistic works displayed for the public in the exposition.

Finally, Bro. Campos himself addressed the audience and explained the context and inspiration behind the works collected in the exposition. He told of his life in Davao City, and of his work decorating and painting many of the chapels and altars of the several churches dotting the city.

Fr. Tabora, H. E. Ureta, and Bro. Campos led the ribbon-cutting ceremony that formally opened the exposition. Inside the Multi-Purpose Room of the Miguel Pro Learning Commons, Bro. Campos led a short tour of the gathered audience and further gave descriptions of his artistic methods, from one painting to the next, and from one photograph to the next.

The Ateneo de Davao also wishes to invite everyone to come and visit the “La Sagrada Familia: A Sacred Art Exposition” featuring the works of Bro. Edgardo Hugo Campos, FSF, at the Multi-Purpose Room of the Miguel Pro Learning Commons, Jacinto campus. This exposition is open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and will run until 25 October 2018.

The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) formally opened the exhibit of the National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) called “Haligi ng Harayang Filipino: Orden ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining at Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan,” in the afternoon of 8 September 2018 at the Arrupe Hall, Jacinto campus. Relatedly, on 10 September, on the same time and at the same venue, the University also hosted an Artist Talk from National Artist for Music Dr. Ramon P. Santos, as well as live demonstrations and performances by National Living Treasures Ambalang Ausalin and Uwang Ahadas. Ausalin showed the gathered audience the skills and techniques involved in weaving the intricately patterned Yakan cloth; while Ahadas played the kulintang before the students, teachers, and guests.

University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J. delivered the opening remarks at the Exhibit Opening, while Vice President for Quality Assurance and Planning Ms. Suzette D. Aliño welcomed the audience to the Artist Talk. “On the occasion of the 70^th Anniversary of our Ateneo de Davao University,” Fr. Tabora said, “we are honored and happy to celebrate the achievements of our National Artists, through painting, song, music, dance, and other creative skills and crafts—celebrate what is distinctively true.” Following Fr. Tabora’s remarks were the addresses from the Deputy Executive Director of the NCCA Marichu Tellano, and the NCCA Executive Director Mr. Rico S. Pableo, Jr.

Dance performances from groups representing the many Lumad peoples of Mindanao formed the bulk of the exhibit opening. Beginning the performances was the Blaan Di Amatutung Performing Arts Ensemble from South Cotabato, with their native Blaan dance. Next was the Yakan Family Ensemble, who performed the Yakan pangalay, with live accompaniment from Uwang Ahadas. Finally, the last performance of the event came from the Keheligal Dance Troupe from South Cotabato, gracing the audience with a rendition of a traditional Tboli dance.

“[The Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan] is for Filipino citizens engaged in traditional art uniquely Filipino,” Ms. Aliño said, opening the Artist Talk. “[The GAMABA recipient] should have distinctive skills and have reached a high level of technical excellence,” she continued, “which has been passed on to and widely practiced by the present generation in his or her community with the same degree of technical or artistic competence.” Ms. Aliño ended her remarks by exhorting more AdDU students to come and visit the exhibit while it lasts. “Traditional folk art is part of our heritage,” she said.

Following her address was another series of performances, this time mixed with renditions of works composed by National Artists for Music. Members of the Ateneo de Davao University Chorale began the event with their interpretation of the Filipino folk song “Ay Kalisud,” which was first sung by Jovita Fuentes in 1919. Next came Mr. Josh Lintag of the Ateneo Repertory Company, who gave a violin performance of National Artist for Music Nicanor Abelardo’s composition “Bituing Marikit.” After that, the AdDU Sidlak Performing Arts Collective dances to an original composition by guest National Artist for Music Dr. Ramon P. Santos, accompanied by the kulintang.

Composer, conductor, and musicologist Dr. Santos detailed his musical journey from the Philippines to the States and back, during which he parlayed his interest in the emerging “computer music” of the 70s to his study of Filipino folk music, which he used to compose masses and rituals.

National Living Treasure Ambalang Ausalin, a master Yakan textile weaver from Lamitan, Basilan, came next and demonstrated with the help of her daughters the skills and techniques necessary to weave a Yakan cloth; while an NCCA representative described the nuts and bolts, as well as the cultural provenances and meanings, of the techniques and elements of Yakan weaving. Uwang Ahadas then followed with a live performance of the kulintang, where he was also joined by his family of musicians.

With this exhibit, Ateneo de Davao University hopes to attract more students to appreciate the traditional arts coming from Mindanao and to deepen their understanding of their place and role in preserving their local culture for future generations.

The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) held a Pakighinabi on Federalism titled “Pakighinabi: Usapang Pederalismo” (#BakitPederal) last 20 September 2018 at the Finster Auditorium, 7^th Floor of the Finster Hall, Jacinto campus, which event was also simulcast at the 4^th Floor of the Martin Hall; the Arrupe Hall; Room F213 of the Finster Building; and Rooms F711-712 of the same building. Acting as lead discussants at the session were Member of the Consultative Committee to Review the 1987 Philippine Constitution (ConCom) Atty. Antonio B. Arellano and Head of the ConCom Technical Working Group Mr. Wendell Adrian Tamayo. The event was moderated by Atty. Romeo T. Cabarde, Jr.

After the press conference with local media preceding the Pakighinabi, moderated by AdDU Assistant to the President for Research and Advocacy Atty. January Faye R. Bello, the lead discussants proceeded to explain the technical aspects and possible benefits of a prospective shift to a federal form of government. Specifically, they spoke at length about the particular salient points written into the new proposed federal constitution, dubbed “Bayanihan Federalism,” emphasizing the cooperative nature of the document. Atty. Arellano related the history of constitution-making in the Philippines, noting that not one of the constitutions have been drafted in a truly democratic situation—all of them have been borne of conflict or colonialism. Shifting to federalism now will be the first time, it is a truly historic chance, he said.

He also clarified the contention that federalism will only create new states and foster division. “We are not creating states,” Atty. Arellano said. “We are merely adapting a different form of government for the Philippine state.” Mr. Tamayo also noted that federalism will enable the Filipino people to interact more closely with their politicians, especially when they are caught doing wrong, saying, “[With federalism], you give power to the people so they can extract accountability on all levels.” He also added, “We have given so much to so few in this government.” Also addressing the possibility of federalism spurring development in the regions, Mr. Tamayo said, “If you give power to the regions, the regions will grow faster.”

Twitter Polls

Another highlight of the event were the Twitter polls conducted before and during the Pakighinabi. Hashtagged “#BakitPederal,” these polls tackled the many issues and contentions surrounding federalism, and they hoped to track the opinions of AdDU students on the topic. The first poll was conducted on 17 September, which poll asked the question, “Do you agree with adopting a federal government?” There were 255 total respondents in the daylong poll, which resulted in 81% answering “Yes” and 19% answering “No.”

The second poll was conducted on the same day, and it asked, “Do we need federalism now?” There were 323 total respondents to this poll, and it resulted in 61% answering “Yes;” 33% answering “Maybe in the future;” and only 6% answering “No.”

For the third poll, conducted on 18 September, students were asked, “Do you think federalism can solve inequality between the regions?” This time 250 people voted, and their votes resulted in 32% answering “Yes;” 50% answering “Yes—but more is needed;” 8% answering “No;” and finally, 10% answering “No—shift men, not government.”

The fourth poll, also conducted on the 18^th, yielded 332 respondents to the question, “Do you think federalism can address the problems of the country, especially its regions?” Upon tallying, 28% of the voters answered “Yes;” 55% answered “Yes—but not all issues;” only 5% answered “No;” while 12% answered “No—change people first.”

There were eight more polls done during the event itself, whose full results are attached below.

Involved Offices

The “Pakighinabi: Usapang Pederalismo” (#BakitPederal) is an initiative of the Ateneo de Davao University, planned and executed through its constituent offices: the University Community Engagement and Advocacy Council (UCEAC), the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), the Office of the Assistant to the President for Community Center and Martin Hall Operations, the Office of the Assistant to the President for Research and Advocacy, and the Institutional Communications and Promotions Office (ICOMMP).

Also, the Pakighinabi is a conversation series initiated by the Office of the President of Ateneo de Davao University to provide members of the University community a platform to discuss multidisciplinary issues and concerns in a more informal and conversational manner. Its goal is to create a structure for conversations in the frame of social justice and the common good in the pursuit of forming AdDU sui generis leaders.

In this context, this Pakighinabi hopes to guide our future AdDU sui generis leaders to make well-thought-out and informed choices as they decide on the next direction for the Philippines, which will affect all future generations. This discussion hopes to lead them to truly exercise their right to vote—that voting means voting through one’s conscience and through one’s own volition, and not for various vested interests.

The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) welcomed about sixty student delegates and school administrators from schools in both the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China in the morning of Sunday, 21 October 2018, at the Jacinto campus, as part of the China-Philippines Friendship Tour organized by the Chinese and Philippine consulates. On the Mindanao leg of this tour, the consulates chose AdDU as a school tour stop. Among the Chinese schools represented in the tour are Fujian Medical University, the Fujian University of Traditional Medicine, the Fujian University of Technology, and the Shangqiu Normal University.

Welcoming the delegates to the campus was University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J., who noted the history behind diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines, beginning with the history of the Philippines under colonization by the Spanish and the Americans.  ‘Top leaders from the Philippines and China have exchanged visits,” Fr. Tabora said. “There is a host of bilateral agreements that leads to better relationships, cooperation between our countries—these include scientific and technological cooperation, civil aviation and transportation, cooperation on information technology, cooperation against illicit traffic in narcotic drugs, tourism cooperation, and the like.” Following this welcome was Assistant to the President for External Affairs Mr. Romulo Vinci Bueza, who also doubled as that day’s lead tour guide. He gave a short background on Mindanao, dispelling the narrative of danger and unrest, as well as introduced the University and the mission work the Jesuits have engaged and continue to engage in for Mindanao.

The delegates toured the campus, guided by Mr. Bueza and other student tour guides. They visited the Community Center of the First Companions, the new swimming pool, the Martin Hall, the Our Lady of the Assumption Chapel, the Arrupe Hall, the Laudato Si, and the Gazebo. Alongside the tour, the student guides gave the delegates short backgrounds and histories of each stop. After the tour, they went to the Arrupe Hall to partake in a short brunch of native fruits and local delicacies, including durian; mangosteen; and pomelo, as well as palitaw; empanada; and turon. The delegates proceeded to lunch, and to the next part of their tour.

From the Mindanao leg of the Friendship Tour, the student-participants and school administrators will proceed to visit sites in Cebu and Metro Manila, before proceeding to visit sites in China.

The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) congratulates Mr. Erick Jan Sagot, an alumnus of the Accountancy Division of the School of Business and Governance (SBG), for placing 2^nd at the 2018 Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examinations (CPALE), garnering a rating of 91.17%. Mr. Sagot joins the other 100 new CPAs from the University, whose results combined for a passing rate of 56.98%, compared to the national passing rate of 25.18%.

At a press conference held with Davao media at the TV Studio at the Institutional Communications and Promotions Office (ICOMMP), at the 3^rd Floor of the Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto campus, Mr. Sagot credited his study ethic and mental preparation as reasons for his success. “The exam is not all about kung unsa lang ang matun-an,” he said. “The exam is also about mental endurance and being prepared spiritually, emotionally, and physically.” He added, “It is not just a battle of luck and wit, but a battle with yourself during the exam—more than academic preparation, kailangan i-compose ang self and keep yourself sane.”

Joining Mr. Sagot at the press conference was AdDU Executive Vice President Jeremy S. Eliab; SBG Dean Jenner Y. Chan; and Chairperson of the Accountancy Division Leopoldo D. Medina. “Siguro ang pinakadahilan kung bakit we produce excellent graduates, na topnotcher material, is yung training talaga since first year,” Mr. Medina said, when asked what it was about the Accountancy program that has enabled it to produce topnotchers nearly every year. Mr. Medina also mentioned that since 2009, the University has been producing CPA topnotchers. “During the first year, talagang intensive training na talaga,” he added, “in terms of problem solving, reading and understanding the concept…importante din ‘yung person of excellence talaga, ‘yung magis, talagang ‘yun ang na-instill sa mga minds nila.”

“It is our tradition to commit ourselves to deliver excellent instruction particularly here in Davao and Mindanao,” Dr. Chan said, when asked for comment. “With the success of Mr. Sagot, we also share this with Davao and Mindanao.” For his part, Mr. Eliab noted the mission of the University as a Jesuit, Catholic, and Filipino educational institution. “We really maintain our standards,” he said. “We won’t apologize, and we will never apologize for our standards. It’s difficult, but it will really have fruits in the future, especially for future leaders in Mindanao.”

Based on the results of the 2018 CPALE, the University has produced the highest number of passers in Visayas and Mindanao; and among the schools with at least 50 examinees, the University has also attained 9^th place. Additionally, out of the 10 schools who have achieved the highest passing rates, only the Ateneo de Davao University and UST have been represented by 100 passers.

The Ateneo de Davao University once again congratulates Mr. Erick Jan Sagot for his wondrous achievement, and for upholding the standard of excellence the University instills in its students. Warm congratulations also go to Dr. Chan and Prof. Medina, as well as the rest of their colleagues at the School of Business and Governance, whose collaborative efforts have combined to build a robust program that consistently forms and develops excellent leaders for Mindanao.