By Emmanuel Sumayang
With the theme “Ang Pagpuyo sa Pilipinhong Pamilosopiya," (Living through Filipino philosophy) the Philosophy Department of Xavier University, in cooperation with the Ateneo Philosophy Club (APC), held a symposium on Filipino philosophy at the XU-AVR4, Wednesday, September 30.
Rev Fr Jonathan Tianero of the Diocese of Bukidnon served as the resource speaker. He shared on how he landed his undergrad course under the influence of his “favorite philosopher,” teacher and inspiration, Fr Michael Moga SJ.
Philosophy opened his eyes to what is important and led him to wonder about the meaning of life. “Life is always about a search for meaning,” he said, adding that constant seeking will never end and should be grounded upon one’s relationship with God.
He characterized Filipino philosophy as “practical and relational,” making it distinct from other philosophies around the world. “Filipino culture and values will help in shaping a better world.”
Tianero added that practical wisdom can be found not just in the academe but also from the elders of lumad (indigenous peoples) communities, referring to the personal and social points in the Filipinos’ attitude of valuing their relationships with fellow men and women, and the environment.
Tianero graduated from XU with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. He joined the Society of Jesus and entered the Sacred Heart Novitiate. But after a year, he returned to Cagayan de Oro City where he taught at XUHS and became a faculty member of XU-Philo Dept.
He decided to enter a diocesan seminary in Batangas and continued his theological studies at St John Vianney Theological Seminary. He is currently a pastor at one of the parishes in Bukidnon.
Spearheaded by APC moderator Paolo Galang, Philosophy 64 (Seminar on Filipino Philosophy) teacher Vicente Carbon and APC president Areiyne Hamac, the event was attended by philosophy teachers and philosophy majors. Philosophy Dept chairperson Dr Jane Gallamaso also graced the occasion.
The said event capped the Philosophy Enrichment Program this semester.