The Ateneo de Davao University proudly congratulates Mr. Nyll Gabrylle R. Gascon, a graduate of the University’s Accountancy program, for placing 10th in the recently concluded Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Licensure Examinations in May 2019. Mr. Gascon garnered a rating of 86.33%. Out of a total of 10, 319 takers, only 1,699 passed the exam, resulting in a nationwide passing rate of 16.46%.
Congratulations!
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
The Ateneo de Davao University proudly congratulates Ms. Ermily Frances Derecho, a BS Chemical Engineering student, for winning the Championship at the recently concluded 9th Zamboanga Debate Open held at Western Mindanao State University last 5-7 June 2019.
Ms. Derecho also received the 4th Best Speaker prize at the tournament. She is also Senior Member of the Ateneo Debate Varsity.
Five undergraduates of the Ateneo de Davao Psychology department presented a research paper titled “The Rainbow Sheep Effect: The Narratives of Four Transgender Individuals in Davao City,” at the 6th International Conference on Gender and Women’s Studies 2019, held at The Federal Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last 17-18 June 2019. This conference was jointly hosted by the International Conferences on Research and Development (ICRD) and Unique Conferences Canada (UCC). Out of 350 abstracts submitted, only 50 were chosen to present their papers and share their ongoing research activities in the fields of Gender and Women’s Studies with the relevant scientific and research communities. Of the 50 accepted abstracts, only six of these were submitted by undergraduates.
Representing the AdDU Psychology Department at the conference were undergraduates Kristen Cascaño, Corinne Cunting, Daisy Guatlo, Raphael Santos, and Lyen Krenz Yap. Ms. Yap delivered the paper under the “Gender Studies” session. They formed part of the Philippine contingent, which included students from the University of the Philippines Diliman, De La Salle University Manila, and the Ateneo de Manila University. The Ateneo de Davao group’s thesis had also been awarded the distinction of Best Departmental Thesis.
Mr. Rogelio Lelis, Jr., a faculty member of the AdDU Psychology department, mentored the students.
Yap also received valuable feedback for future research endeavors during the Students’ Circle. Conference convener Dr. Prabhath Patabendi, suggested that the students from AdDU forward their thesis to “Gender and Society,” a top-ranked and exclusive journal in sociology and women’s studies.
From the conference website, the International Conference on Gender and Women’s Studies aims to “bring together leading academics, activists, scientists, and researchers from around the world. [The conference] aims to offer international perspectives with an emphasis on economic, social, and psychological aspects of empowerment and leadership, victimization, exclusion, and social problems.”
The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU), in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), has launched the Shared Services Facility (SSF) with the Ateneo Shoe Academy (ASA), located at Sitio Waan, Barangay Magtuod, Davao City, this past Thursday, 27 June 2019. University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J., along with DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez, graced the ceremony.
The Shared Service Facility at the ASA is an ongoing project by the DTI, which aims to improve the capability, productivity, and global competitiveness of the scholars and graduates of the Shoe Academy by providing them relevant shoemaking machinery and equipment. The SSF at the Shoe Academy is also the pioneering shared services facility on shoemaking launched in Mindanao.
Under the SSF, the Ateneo Shoe Academy has received a multimillion-peso grant from the Department of Trade and Industry that secured specialized machinery, such as a universal sole press machine, a glue activator machine, a rib-laying machine, a welt-stitcher machine, a leather-folding machine, a pounding machine, a cylinder-bed sewing machine, and a leather-splitting machine.
These sets of equipment are expected to enhance the Ateneo Shoe Academy’s existing shoe products in terms of quality and design, increase production, lower costs, and improve over-all product competitiveness. It will also help develop the growing shoemaking industry in the Davao region, and help benefit out-of-school youth and members of indigenous communities in Davao City. The SSF is also meant to benefit ASA students and graduates, and to enhance their global competitiveness.
“[The SSF at the Shoe Academy] is a convergence of support from TESDA [Technical Education and Skills Development Authority], DOLE [Department of Labor and Employment], DTI, and AdDU,” DTI Provincial Director Edwin Banquerigo said, adding, “What we have here is the legacy of making the first shoemaking facility in Mindanao.”
DTI Sec. Lopez also described the students and graduates of the ASA as “pioneering shoemakers of the industry.” “This will be the start of a new industry in Mindanao,” he said, adding as well that the DTI will make sure that microfinancing for Micro-Small-Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) will be available, as well as hubs for selling and showcasing of the Academy’s products.
“We have to fight poverty,” Fr. Tabora, S.J. said. “This is possible if we work together through various entrepreneurial ventures.”
The Shared Service Facility provides a training area that offers a comprehensive shoemaking program for the out-of-school youth and members of the indigenous communities in Davao City.
Established in 2016, the Ateneo Shoe Academy offers a free 10-month shoemaking course to Davao’s out-of-school youth and members of the indigenous communities. It has already produced 20 graduates who are pioneering the shoemaking industry in Mindanao.
Sixteen adult learners from the Ateneo de Davao Academy of Lifelong Learning (ADD-ALL) visited the Jinjiang Province and Xiamen City in China, from 10 to 13 July 2019 as part of their Mandarin Language and Chinese Culture course. Accompanying the learners on their trip was Ms. Johanna Pauline Angelica R. Lamzon, the class instructor.
Having arrived at Jinjiang province, the learners visited the province’s own Rizal Park, an exact replica of the famous monument to Dr. Jose Rizal in Luneta, Manila. Afterward, they proceeded to Hua’an, in Hakka Village, to visit the World Heritage Hakka Earth – Eryi Building, one of China’s great treasures as well as one of the world’s largest-scale residential construction projects. The learners explored the walled living space and structure of the village, unique to the Hakka people of Southern China.
In Xiamen City, the learners also visited Gulangyu Islet, or the “Garden on the Sea;” Shuzhuang Garden, offering breathtaking views of the hills and sea; and Zhongshan Pedestrian Street, which is the busiest street in the city, boasting buildings built in different architectural styles that add to its character and liveliness. The learners also dropped by the city’s many attractions, including old mansions, museums, as well as the various natural attractions where the students appreciated the natural beauty of China.
The tour allowed the learners to practice Mandarin, which they had been learning at school. One learner, Esther A. Li, told of her experience on Facebook that she “got to say [her] few favorite words that [she] learned from [their] class: nihao, duoshao qian, [and] xiexie.” Other learners also included the Tan family, who were given a chance not only to practice their Mandarin, but also to meet their relatives in Jinjiang, for the first time.
Leading the development of adult education in the Philippines not only in cultural courses such as foreign language instruction, the Ateneo de Davao Academy of Lifelong Learning 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.
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 at (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.
Faculty and staff from the Ateneo de Davao University delivered papers and exhibited art installations at the Philippine Studies conference organized by the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) of the University of London in the United Kingdom last 5 – 6 July 2019. The conference bore the theme “Mindanao: Cartographies of History, Identity, and Representation.”
Four out of the 24 papers presented were delivered by faculty of the University. These papers drew attention to the complexity of various histories and cultural traditions in Mindanao. Ms. Rhodora Ranalan presented her paper titled “Texture, Text and Context: A Journey Into Mandaya Folklore;” Ms. Pamela Castrillo delivered her paper titled “Restaging Histories and Identities in Museums in Mindanao;” Bro. Carlito Gaspar the paper called “Popularization of the Mindanao Cultural Landscape;” and finally, Ms. Shiela Guinal presented her research titled “Beautiful English: Marginal Identities and Dominant Positions.” Mr. Abraham Garcia Jr. also displayed an art installation called “Kultural Amnesia,” which was joined by Virgilio Martin Castrillo’s exhibition “Arts of Peace.”
Half of the academics presenting papers were from Europe, the United States, and other parts of Asia. Their researches focused mainly on Muslim and Lumad realities in Mindanao. Each day of presentations was capped off by artistic exhibits and performances that showcased Mindanao culture. These activities included a movie screening, book launches, and theatrical presentations.
The successful conference is a manifestation of the support given by the presenters’ respective institutions and organizations as well as the SOAS itself. It also signaled a growing interest in Mindanao among global academics, numbering among whose ranks are researchers from the Philippines and scholars from other parts of the world.
Written by Ms. Rhodora Ranalan, Ph.D., AdDU Languages, Literature, and Arts
Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J. signed on Wednesday, 7 August 2019, a Memorandum of Understanding as well as a Memorandum of Agreement with his counterpart, Fr. Dunstan Vinny Joseph, S.J., the Director of the St. Aloysius Gonzaga Institute for Higher Studies (SAG-IHS) for collaborative academic and outreach programs between the two schools for the people of Taunggyi, Shan State, Republic of the Union of Myanmar.
Wednesday’s signing renewed the partnership between AdDU and SAG-IHS, which had begun in 2012. The Memorandum also indicated further points of collaboration between the two institutions, which includes developing “a roadmap detailing the plan of action towards SAG-HIS becoming a degree-granting institution;” AdDU providing assistance to SAG-IHS in “reviewing the latter’s existing curriculum for the purposes of developing it into degree programs for either Education or Social Work;” studying the “possibility of an offshore degree program for SAG-IHS…and implement the program as a transitional mechanism contributing to SAG-IHS being able to grant its own degrees;” and AdDU sustaining its outreach efforts in Myanmar through its Cardoner Volunteer Program. Relatedly, the Memorandum of Agreement also signifies the partnership between AdDU and SAG-IHS in undertaking the Ateneo de Davao University Cardoner Volunteer Program, which is a year-long volunteer service program offered to graduates and faculty members of AdDU.
This partnership is designed to serve the faculty and students of SAG-IHS from the rural communities in Taunggyi, Myanmar. The memoranda will be effective for five years after the signing.
The Ateneo de Davao University graciously and warmly welcomed Wednesday, 14 August 2019, Sec. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) for a one-day conference titled “Walking and Working Together for Healing and Reconciliation” at the 11th Floor, Calungsod-San Vitores Jesuit-Lay Collaboration Center, Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto campus. Other participants included Most Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J., DD, of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro; Fr. Roberto C. Layson, OMI, of the Diocese of Cotabato; Prof. Moner Bajunaid, Secretary General of the National Ulama Cooperation of the Philippines (NUCP); Fr. Teresito “Chito” Soganub, Vicariate General of the Prelature of Marawi. Completing the roster were representatives of the Bishops-Ulama Conference (BUC), Mindanao Catholic Church Leaders for Peace, delegates from different peace centers, and representatives from the University, led by President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J.
Having been initiated in light of the signing of the “Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together,” by His Holiness Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb last February 2019, the conference began by discussing this same document, which was led by Fr. Tabora.
“This document is a document that rejects, in the name of religion, any form of violence,” Fr. Tabora said. “It’s a document which accepts, from both religious leaders, religious freedom, and it’s a document which embraces diversity, accepts the fact that we are different, in such a way that being open to another person’s religion strengthens my own religion.” Fr. Tabora also noted, “I’m very happy because this [document] has been accepted.”
Following this discussion was the Pakighinabi (or “dialogue”) session on The Adoption of a Culture of Dialogue as the Path – “Being Inspired by Bapa Benny’s Spirituality and Dialogue of Life,” led by Fr. Layson, with Sec. Galvez and Prof. Bajunaid serving as initial reactors. After this discussion came a Conversation on Reciprocal Understanding as the Method and Standard – “Listening Session on Best Programs on Interreligious Dialogue,” which was led by representatives from the University’s Madaris Volunteer Program (MVP), the Salaam Movement, and Catholic Relief Services.
Finally, the participants convened for the planning session titled Mutual Cooperation as the Code of Conduct – “Planning for Healing and Reconciliation in the Bangsamoro,” where they presented strategies for further cooperative peacebuilding efforts among the various stakeholders gathered in the hall.
The conference ended with the acceptance of all parties of the “Document on Human Fraternity.” Prof. Bajunaid said that he would be presenting the document to the ulamas; Davao Archbishop and head of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Romulo Valles has also accepted the document anew and will present it again to the Philippine bishops; and the OPAPRU, through Sec. Galvez, has also followed suit and will be presenting it to the government. “He’s [Sec. Galvez] really saying this can be the document that brings us all together,” Fr. Tabora said.
The conference aimed to gather Christian and Muslim religious leaders to discuss the “Document on Human Fraternity” and to adopt it as a working framework for joint initiatives and to design and implement joint programs and projects for healing and reconciliation in Mindanao.
The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) warmly and proudly congratulates its new Social Workers for helping the University secure the 6th place in the Top Performing Schools for Social Work in the Licensure Examinations for Social Workers (LESW) held last August 2019, where the school attained an overall passing rate of 90.48%. First-time takers from AdDU also claimed a passing rate of 94.44%.
One of the University’s new Social Workers is Ms. Jvee Joy F. Escabosa, a member of the Mansaka tribe and a University Scholar. Her success is a testament to the guidance and opportunities given by the University to all peoples in Mindanao, who wish to dedicate their careers to serving the common good and pursuing social justice.
In its hope of keeping Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) a drug-free campus, the Center Against Illegal Drugs (CAID) and University Community Engagement and Advocacy Council (UCEAC) conducted the first ever Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on Mandatory Random Drug Testing (MRDT) at the 8/F Media Room, Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto campus, last September 2.
Present in the MOA signing were AdDU’s institutional partners: Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), Department of Health (DOH) Region XI, Philippine National Police (PNP), and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
CAID Director Atty. Romeo T. Cabarde Jr. emphasized the benefits of the said agreement. “With the drug-free campus and workplace, we are certain to increase our productivity, improve our morale, enhance our energy, reduce conflict, accidents, errors and turnovers.”
CAID Board Member Atty. Edgar Pascua II highlighted the basic principles guiding the MRDT:
First, the MRDT shall be implemented primarily for protection, rehabilitation, pastoral care and for the purpose of risk reduction associated with drug use in the university.
Second, it shall give the highest regard to the human and legal rights of its students and employees, hence, guarantees respect for their privacy and suspiciousness of the procedure.
Third, the MRDT aims to involve recognizing its significance in the formation of those who are in the care of the institution. Lastly, it provides formal intervention which infuses the core values of AdDU formation programs.
Atty. Pascua showed the procedure of the MRDT and said that the kits to be used shall test for the presence of the common substances such as shabu and marijuana. However, this does not include the test for the presence of ecstasy and other forms of drugs.
University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, SJ expressed his gratitude for the initiative of the legislators. “We thank all of you who are really trying not only this university but the Philippines drug-free,” he said.
The MRDT will be conducted inside the university premises with the help of university clinic personnel or other individuals duly authorized by CAID.
Written by Allan Acera, Jr. and Karl Maglana, BA Communication IV, ICOMMP Interns
Photos by Juan Genaro Halog, BA Communication IV, ICOMMP Intern
Members of the Ateneo de Davao University Debate Varsity won the championship at the 2nd Mindanao International Humanitarian Law Debates hosted by the Philippine Red Cross – Davao City Chapter last 9 to 11 August 2019 at the Pinnacle Hotel. From AdDU Team C, Maegan Sang Tian, Ian Sarto, and Giovanni Vallejo, all first year students, endured four elimination rounds to bag the trophy. The debate tournament was crafted to challenge the knowledge and skills of debaters, particularly concerning the principles and pragmatics of international humanitarian law; this inter-school debating tournament is also initiated in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross.
According to the organizers, “this initiative is in cognizance of the need to further heighten public awareness of the International Humanitarian Law…. This debate exercise of skills among the youth and students shall greatly contribute to our humanitarian thrusts, and shall provide a venue for youth participation in discussing, analyzing, and resolving sociopolitical issues relating to International Humanitarian Law.”
This victory marks a good start for the AdDU Debate Varsity, which is preparing for the long debate season ahead.
The Ateneo de Davao University Culture and Arts Cluster (AdDU – CAC) is honored to have participated in a slew of local and national cultural and arts activities, including workshops and festivals, sponsored by multiple national and international organizations, in the first semester of school year 2019-2020. The cluster’s constituent student organizations sent their representatives to join these events.
Performing in the opening ceremony of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in the Asia Pacific (AJCU) Service-Learning Program last 4 August 2019 were members of the Culture and Arts Cluster’s Performing Arts strand: the Ateneo Chorale, Ateneo Repertory Company, and the Ateneo Sidlak Performing Arts Collective. The strands enlivened the welcome dinner with their performances highlighting choral excellence, dance prowess, and musical flair.
The Cluster also collaborated with the Mindanao Youth Development Center (MYDC) and the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), to hold the Cinemalaya Campus Workshop at the Finster Auditorium, AdDU Jacinto campus, last 25 June 2019. The workshop featured lectures by contemporary Filipino film directors on building prospective stories and on how independent films mirror varied Filipino realities; as well as screenings of their works. Director Kip Oebanda also conducted a filmmaking masterclass and screened his film “Liway.”
Vice President for Dance of the Ateneo Repertory Company (ARC) Mr. Aaron James Morales participated in the 3rdChoreographers’ Movement and Analysis Program (CMAP) of the Choreographers’ Festival Internationale 2019, held at the Waterfront Insular Hotel, Davao City, last 25 – 27 June 2019. Joining Mr. Morales were 10 choreographers, 13 ballet schools, and 3 dance companies from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The participants underwent intensive dance workshops led by 4 international dance masters from Russia, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Finally, last 20 – 24 May 2019, Ms. Eliezza Justin Magbalot, the Vice President of the Ateneo Sidlak Performing Arts Collective (ASPAC), joined the 39th National Folk Dance Workshop held at the Folk Arts Theater in Manila. The workshop aimed to preserve and promote Philippine folk dancing.
The Cluster looks forward to joining and hosting more cultural and arts activities as the school year goes on.
The Ateneo de Davao University welcomed His Excellency Gerardo Lozano Arredondo, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Mexican States to the Republic of the Philippines, to a forum on Philippine-Mexico relations held at the Miguel Pro Learning Commons, 2F Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto campus, on the morning of Friday, 6 September 2019. The ambassador gave the student audience an overview of the culture, traditions, and the contemporary society of Mexico; he highlighted cultural and traditional elements unique to Mexico, from to its cuisine and its art, as well as elements shared by both Mexico and the Philippines, including the devotion to the Virgin of Guadalupe.
After a courtesy visit to University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J., the ambassador and the president headed together to the venue to begin the forum. Fr. Tabora also delivered the opening address to formally welcome the dignitaries to the University. In the address, he elaborated on the “rich, shared history of evangelization, commercialization, and intercontinental relationship” between the two nations, one that “spans almost half a millennium.”
As part of Ambassador Arredondo’s talk, he expanded on what he termed “magic towns,” comprising smaller cities outside of the globally known Mexican metropolises. “This is a project that we are trying to share with the Philippines,” he said, “because in the Philippines there are small towns that are not so well-known, but with this program, in which these cities have financial support from the government, [we can] exchange preservation of heritage, [which] activity is very important.”
“Asia plays a very important role in this effort [of economic diversification],” Arredondo continued, contextualizing his explication of Mexico’s contemporary economic situation and of possible trading options. “The Philippines can play a very important role as the gateway to Asia, and to open as a window for Mexican merchandisers.” Moving on to discuss the historical connections between Mexico and the Philippines, Arredondo said, “Thanks to the very famous Acapulco-Manila galleon trade, we started very early a very important relation that allowed the countries to exchange merchandise, also people, cultures, traditions.” About contemporary Philippine-Mexico relations and the challenges it faces, Arredondo also said, “As developing countries, Mexico and the Philippines face several challenges, such as immigration, the fight against poverty, the fight against drugs, climate change, natural disaster, and economic inequality.” He also said that both countries also share the goal of generating “better life conditions” for their citizens.
The floor was also opened for questions from the students in the audience. One student posed a question on the similarities of strategy between Mexico and the Philippines in tackling the problem of illegal drugs. “Both countries share the commitment to fight this activity,” Arredondo said. “We consider that the trade of illegal drugs has a very negative effect, mainly in population, but also in economic terms.” He also added, “The strategy can depend on the reality of the country itself and the characteristics of the country. In Mexico we consider the drug problem as a global problem, which cannot be solved without international collaboration.”
In the context of economics, and economic possibilities, Fr. Tabora also asked, “How is Mexico dealing with China? Are you open to a stronger relationship with China? Or do you feel threatened by China? Both in terms of manufacturing and the economy, but also as a security measure?”
“Mexico has been open to the Chinese economy,” the ambassador answered. “We need to learn much more about Chinese culture. In Mexico, very few people speak Chinese.” He also added, “Though we are convinced of the importance of the Chinese market, we approach very slowly.”
The Ateneo de Davao University looks forward to helping grow and foster a culture of friendship as well as a productive partnership between the Philippines and Mexico.
With her intent to encourage and promote dialogue, not just within a society but across societies, President of the Republic of Singapore Her Excellency Madam Halimah Yacob visited Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) last September 11 to have dialogue with the youth from different ethnicities and religions in Mindanao.
The dialogue, which was held at 11th Flr, Community Center of the First Companions, started with a speech from the University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, SJ expressing his gratitude to the Singapore president.
“As a promoter of women’s rights, welfare of underprivileged, marginalized, environment and advocate of interreligious dialogue, we are delighted that Madam Halimah Yakob set aside time to share her wisdom with our youth,” he said.
Tabora continued his speech saying that Mindanao has had its roots in social injustice and interreligious conflict between Muslims, Indigenous Peoples, and Christians.
As a response to Tabora’s statement, Yacob stressed the importance of dialogue in promoting peace and seizing prosperity in an ethnically diverse society.
“The world today is becoming increasingly complex with people’s goals and ideas moving more freely than ever across borders. Constant dialogue and engagement, just like what we are doing now, is key to building trust and understanding in a society,” she said.
Yacob also emphasized that people now see extremism and exclusivism growing stronger. “A society is fragile if one group views another as a threat. It is important to overcome the forces of division and build bridges instead of walls.”
She furthered that as a manifestation of its effort in attaining mutual respect, Singapore hosted the Inaugural Conference on Cohesive Societies (ICCS) last June with over a thousand participants from nearly 40 countries.
“It was a platform for international fought leaders across academia, government, religious groups, civil society and young leaders to engage in constructive dialogue. This shared about the challenges of social harmony in the society they live in and discuss how to better forge trust and mutual understanding so as to strengthen social cohesion,” Yacob added.
Yacob likened Singapore with Mindanao in its direction towards a harmonious culture rooted in respect. She stated that by such action, it makes a more vibrant and inclusive society.
“All of us have a part to play in shaping the future where everyone of us stands together side by side regardless of race, religion or language.” she said.
Yacob ended her speech saying that dialogue is a process that requires sustained effort, commitment and a genuine interest in gaining understanding and acceptance in spite of differences in opinion and conviction.
Meanwhile, prior to Yacob’s arrival, a Pakighinabi on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together was held to discuss the advancement of a culture of mutual respect in an ethnically and religiously diverse Mindanao led by Al Qalam Institute Executive Director, and Member of Parliament of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Datu Mussolini Lidasan.
Written by: Allan Acera, Jr. and Karl Maglana, BA Communication IV, ICOMMP Interns
Photo credits: Institutional Communications and Promotions (iCommP) Office, Ateneo de Davao University
The Ateneo de Davao University is deeply disturbed by the incident of violence between two of its SHS learners outside its campus last 18 September 2019.
The University does not condone any violence or bullying among members of its community whether on or off campus. It stresses its commitment to educating and caring for its learners, from grade school to college, so that they may grow into future leaders of Mindanao who are themselves dedicated to peace and service.
The Ateneo de Davao University Senior High School has begun its formal investigation of the learners involved while keeping foremost in mind the welfare and needs of the victim.
As the investigation proceeds, the University assures the community that the Director of the Senior High School and its Prefect of Discipline accord this case top priority. Moreover, the University will take appropriate measures to resolve it in a manner that is fair to all involved.
The Legal and Education Board (LEB) visited Ateneo de Davao University to recognize the University as the Top 3 law school in the Philippines in the 2018 Bar Exams, at a ceremony held last 20 September 2019, at the Jubilee Building, Jacinto campus. With a passing rate of 83.33%, the University placed 3rd among the country’s top schools—only behind Ateneo de Manila University and the University of the Philippines, respectively.
Commissioner Atty. Josefe Sorrera-Ty of the LEB or Legal Education Board addressed the gathered audience, speaking about the magnitude of the recognition. “This award is the product of hard work and dedication of the law school students and the faculty,” Atty. Sorrera-Ty said.
Moreover, the commissioner praised the dedication of the law school teachers in preparing their students for the Bar. “You have dedicated teachers who want to transmit wisdom to you,” she said.
She also added that this award would not be possible if not for the support of Ateneo de Davao University’s administration. She appreciated the presence of Jeremy S. Eliab, the Executive Vice President of AdDU.
“You have broken the class ceiling,” Atty. Sorrera-Ty said.
She also recognized the 2018 Bar passers as an “inspiration” to all law schools in Mindanao. The commissioner expressed her hope that the students could share their beautiful story to others about how they found the drive to be committed in their studies.
“The Legal and Education Board is looking for the X-factor to lift-up the standards and Ateneo de Davao truly has the X-factor,” Atty. Sorrera-Ty said.
Joining Atty. Sorrera-Ty to confer the award were other members of the LEB, including Atty. Aaron Marc Dimaano, Cluster Supervisor; Ranniel Rodriguez, Cluster Supervisor; EVP Jeremy S. Eliab; Atty. Jason Tan, and the Assistant Dean of the College of Law Atty. Lydia C. Galas.
Atty. Lydia C. Galas also spoke at the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of the University administration’s support. “We will not make this achievement without the support of the administration,” Atty. Galas said.
She also said that the law school profession is not a walk in the park taking a big part of the law school student’s social life due to studying. “I know the study of law is a very jealous profession. It lessens social life and your time in social media,” Atty. Galas said.
Ending the ceremony was the address from the College of Law Student Council President Ms. Emille Dane S. Viola. She stressed the importance of studying, and explained how this achievement could serve as inspiration for others in the future.
“This award serves as a challenge to not only for the students but also for the faculty and staff as well to go beyond and transcend our status in the future,” Viola said.
Written by Ulysses Agura, BA Communication IV, ICOMMP Intern
Photo credits: Institutional Communications and Promotions (iCommP) Office
The Ateneo de Davao University central administration signed four new Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA) with the presidents of the University’s four different labor unions in the afternoon of 4 October 2019 at the Martin Hall.
The union presidents and representatives of the central administration signed the new agreements after a series of messages delivered by the union presidents. The new CBAs, according to Human Resource Management and Development Office (HRMDO) Director Atty. Niceforo V. Solis, Jr., ensures industrial peace for the next five years. The CBAs are effective 2019-2024.
Several rounds of negotiations on the provisions and clauses of the new CBA between the administration panel and union representatives resulted in the new agreements.
Signing the four new agreements were University President Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S. J.; Atty. Solis; Vice President for Finance and University Treasurer Mr. Jimmy Delgado; and the respective union presidents: Mr. German S. Perias, President of the Ateneo de Davao Employees Union – FFW; Ms. Arlene D. Golloso, President of the Ateneo de Davao Preschool and Grade School Academic Teaching and Academic Non-teaching Employees Union – FFW; Mr. Daniel B. Villanueva, President of the Unyon ng mga Guro sa Ateneo – High School (UGAT – HS); and Ms. Judith D. Dalagan, President of the College Faculty Union. Also attending the ceremony was Atty. Connie Beb A. Torralba, Mediator – Arbiter of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region XI.
In their messages, the union presidents expressed their gratitude to the administration panel for the swift and dynamic negotiations that produced the new CBAs.
“I can say that this time is unique. This is the first time that the four unions came together,” Mr. Perias said in his message. “The results came together quickly, and it was very substantial. The proposals that were approved for the NTP [Non-teaching personnel] were very generous and were very much improved. We are thankful to the management.” He also added, “Ever since Fr. Joel became University president, the union has not lodged a complaint against the management.”
For her part, Ms. Golloso, president of the preschool and grade school union, said, “In unions there is strength. I believe that in community, there is greater strength, and that is one thing I have learned in this institution.” She added, “May this signing of this [CBA] allow us to grow more in our relationship, in our strength as a community, allow us to grow in our collaboration, and may this strength be continuously used for God’s greater glory and service.”
“This [new CBA] is very distinct from the previous one,” Mr. Villanueva, of UGAT – HS, said of the CBA his union signed. “[This is] because of the many graces bestowed upon us all during the course of our conversations.” He added, “Truly I can say with joy, we are what we stand for.”
To end the round of messages from the union presidents, Ms. Dalagan, of the College Faculty Union, addressed the audience present. “Thank you, Fr. Joel, for upholding the dignity of work,” she said. “With this CBA, we hope and pray that we sustain our collaborative efforts in serving Ateneo with magis.”
“I am very happy and very grateful that we have come to an agreement, or that we have come to four separate agreements with one another,” Fr. Tabora said, in his closing address to the unions. “We have been able to work through this period of renewal of our CBAs with relative smoothness… I am truly very glad and grateful that in all of the CBA documents, all the unions commit themselves to promote the vision and mission of the school. All of the unions, all of the employees, commit themselves to promote what Ateneo de Davao stands for.”
Fr. Tabora also added, “The mission and vision of this Ateneo de Davao University is absolutely meaningless without the employees of Ateneo de Davao University and without the community that we strive to form here at Ateneo de Davao.”
The union presidents also thanked Fr. Tabora for his extensive and consistent support for the unions, promising to repay this support in the exercise of their duties as employees of the University.
The four unions represent all employees—faculty, staff, and non-teaching personnel—working in the University’s four units. In signing the CBA, the University recognizes the necessity of a harmonious and productive relationship between the administration and the workers in fulfilling its mission and realizing its vision for its students, and Mindanao.
Photo credits: Institutional Communications and Promotions (ICOMMP) Office, Ateneo de Davao University
A kindergarten pupil of Ateneo de Davao University Grade School and the youngest member of the Mathematics Philippine Team, Zeus Francesco Vitaly C. Lindayag, won the Bronze Award and the Hong Kong China Merit Award at the 2019 Hong Kong International Mathematical Olympiad.
Zeus bagged the Bronze Award at the Olympiad’s Heat Round, which qualified him for the Final Round, where he also received the Merit Award. More than ten thousand pupils worldwide joined the Olympiad held last 29 August to 3 September 2019 in Hong Kong.
Zeus is the first Kindergarten pupil to represent not only the Ateneo de Davao University but also Davao City for a Math contest.
In a text message from Zeus’ parents, Engr. Francis and Mides Marie Lindayag also had nothing but praise for their son’s achievements. They noted that their son “broke the record as Ateneo [de Davao]’s youngest Math international competitor at six years old.” And also added that Zeus “has around six [possible] international competitions this school year, from August 2019 to June 2020.”
Aside from the Hong Kong International Math Olympiad, Zeus has also qualified for Heat Round of the Southeast Asian Mathematics Olympiad (SEAMO). The final round of which will be in Goldcoast, Australia.
Zeus has also qualified for other competitions like the Thailand International Mathematical Olympiad (TIMO), the Hong Kong International Science Olympiad (HKISO), the BIG BAY BEI Mathematical Olympiad 2020, and the HIPPO English Without Borders 2020.
The Ateneo de Davao University community congratulates Zeus for his great achievements, bringing great pride to the University. And the community also wishes him further success in the field of Math.
The University also wants to express its mission to continue helping and shaping every member of its student body, like Zeus, to strive for excellence not only for personal glory but for the good of all.
Photo credits: Ms. Mitzi Gay Ferrariz, Ateneo de Davao University Grade School
Pursuant to Republic Act 10173, or the Data Privacy Act of 2012, the Ateneo de Davao University hereby publishes its Data Privacy Notice. Please peruse the items attached below.
The Ateneo de Davao University wishes to congratulate Engr. Christian Dhon L. Abejuela for placing 8th, with a score of 91.60%, in the 2019 Civil Engineer Licensure Exams held this November. His score helped the University gain an impressive 95.83% passing rate, compared to the national rate of 43.18%. Forty-six (46) graduates from the University passed the Exams from a pool of forty-eight (48). For first-time takers from the University, forty-four (44) graduates passed the exams out of forty-six (46), garnering a rate of 95.65%.
The University also congratulates its School of Engineering and Architecture, especially to Dean Engr. Randell Espina, and the rest of the Civil Engineering department, for this great achievement. Once again, this proves the excellence in the quality of education to which the Ateneo de Davao University has devoted itself through the decades.
