by Jhon Louie B Sabal
Chairperson, Department of Economics
A Message to the Graduating Batch of 2025 from the Chairpersons, Assistant Dean, and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences
In 1933, Fr James TG Hayes, SJ—then Superior of the Philippine Jesuit Mission and later the first Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro—founded what we now know as Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan. With only purpose and humility as his resources, he began an institution rooted in faith and vision. Fr Hayes understood that while the path forward may be difficult, one must take the first step—as long as there is meaning and purpose to guide the way.
To our dear graduates, let us take inspiration from the humble beginnings of Xavier Ateneo. Find your own sense of purpose and meaning. Identify the things that bring you joy and fulfillment—and pursue them with courage. Take that path, even when you’re afraid. Take it even when you feel unprepared. Take it despite your doubts. Surely, Fr Hayes didn’t have all the answers when he began building this university, but he moved forward anyway.
In the years that followed, Xavier Ateneo began to grow, becoming a premier destination for young men in the region. Yet, like many great journeys, the university’s story was not without hardship. During the Second World War, Xavier Ateneo was reduced to rubble. Years of hard work vanished in an instant.
Life, like the story of this institution, is never a straight line. It is full of turns, detours, and sometimes, painful setbacks. But these trials often carry within them a powerful lesson: to begin again, even when we think we’ve already come far. Starting over is not a sign of defeat—it’s an act of courage. For Xavier Ateneo, the aftermath of war was not the end, but a new beginning—an opportunity to rebuild, reassess, and rise anew.
Over the next decades, this simple school for boys transformed into a university—
the first not just by the Jesuits, but in all of Mindanao. Its programs expanded, addressing the needs of an evolving society. Its mission reached far and wide—abroad, in cities and mountains, and even in the most forgotten corners of our communities. The trials of the past shaped Xavier Ateneo into what it is today: stronger, more resilient, and deeply relevant.
Despite challenges, Xavier Ateneo never lost its sense of purpose. It never wavered in its love for truth, service, and community. Even in times of uncertainty, disappointment, and loss, the university remained steadfast. Society did not shape Xavier Ateneo; rather, Xavier Ateneo shaped society.
To our graduates—when you encounter hardship, heartbreak, betrayal, or failure—never lose your purpose. And never lose your kindness.
Continue to love. Continue to be sincere. Continue to care. The world may try to change you, but let your response be to change the world—make it less cruel, less indifferent, less unequal. As the saying goes, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”
The future of Xavier Ateneo is bright. In just eight years, Fr Hayes’ humble school will celebrate its centennial—a hundred years of excellence, of forming men and women of conscience, competence, and commitment. But the story is far from over. Xavier Ateneo will continue to grow, to evolve, and to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.
Even in success, we must remain grounded. We are works in progress—still learning, still discovering, still becoming. The road ahead is uncertain, yes—but isn’t that the beauty of life? The unknown, the unexpected, the unfolding of new possibilities. Let this perspective remind us to remain humble. No matter our achievements, no matter the titles or honors we receive, we are still but a small part of something much greater.
As Xavier Ateneo embraces modern technology and artificial intelligence, it will never lose sight of its core mission: to produce graduates who think critically, reflect deeply, lead with integrity, and serve with compassion. Graduates with a heart for the community.
The story of Xavier Ateneo is a tapestry woven by the hands of many—those who gave their time, their talents, and their hearts to this mission. It began with Fr Hayes, but it has grown through the contributions of countless individuals who believed in this vision and helped bring it to life.
Graduates, remember this: you are not the sole author of your success. You are the product of everyone who believed in you—those who lifted you up when you couldn’t stand, those who walked with you when the road was rough, those who believed in your light even when you didn’t see it yourself. Take this moment to honor them as well.
In the years ahead, surround yourself with people who nourish your growth and your soul—those who will not only teach you lessons but walk with you as you learn them. And when the weight of life feels too heavy, when you feel lost or overwhelmed—kneel. Remember that there is a God: divine, omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent. But above all, benevolent and merciful. Pray for grace. For strength. For a kind heart. Ask for guidance and courage. And above all, ask how you might be a good shepherd for the mission He has entrusted to you.
As you leave the gates of this university, may you carry with you the lessons from Xavier Ateneo’s humble beginnings. Live with purpose. Embrace life’s twists and turns. Be brave enough to start over when necessary. Stay kind and sincere—not only in success but especially in defeat. Stay humble. Stay open to learning. And surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you. Above all, remember that God will never abandon you.
The College of Arts and Sciences is proud of this incredible milestone. We pray that you become professionals of excellence—brilliant in mind, but most importantly, rich in heart, with deep love for the community and the poor.
Go forth and journey into the life ahead. And know this: there is a home called Xavier Ateneo—a place you can always return to when life becomes too much. Come home when you are tired. Rekindle your fire for the mission. And remember that in a world full of trials, love and kindness remain our most powerful tools.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.