By: Samuel Macagba III, PhD

From 9-13 September, Xavier University Basic Education Administrators participated in significant events that highlighted both the unity and mission of Jesuit schools in the Philippines. The administrators attended the Jesuit Basic Education Commission (JBEC) Principal’s Meeting from 9-11 September, witnessed the investiture of Fr Aristotle Dy, SJ as the 5th president of Ateneo de Naga University on 12 September, and joined the Traslacion of Our Lady of Peñafrancia on 13 September.

A Communal Discernment at JBEC

 
Strengthening our educational journey: XU Basic Ed Administrator with Fr Joseph Haw, SJ,
Chair of the JBEC, as we forge new paths in learning and leadership

The meeting began with a warm welcome from Fr Joseph Haw, SJ, the new JBEC Chair and Xavier School President. In his address, Fr Haw set the tone by emphasizing that the JBEC gathering was not just an administrative conference, but a spiritual and communal discernment where Jesuit school leaders could share best practices and reflect on their collective direction. The goal was to collaboratively chart the course for Jesuit education in the Philippines, ensuring that the values of Jesuit identity, mission, and inclusivity were at the heart of their discussions.

Fr Robert Rivera, SJ, outgoing president of Ateneo de Naga University (ADNU), also presented a significant reflection from the 71st Congregation of Procurators held in Loyola, Spain. His talk, The Call of the King Revisited: Our Mission as a Jesuit School Network in Light of the State of the Society of Jesus, drew from the core mission of the Jesuits to collaborate in Christ’s reconciliation of all things. Using the Pastoral Circle framework—see-judge-act—Fr Rivera encouraged participants to understand the ongoing epochal changes and to approach their mission with humility and collaboration. His reflection invited JBEC members to prioritize being over doing, following Jesus as a humble model.

This input from Fr Rivera became the foundation for spiritual conversations among JBEC participants, allowing them to reflect on the future direction of their schools.

Key Areas of Collaboration

Several key areas for collaboration emerged during the JBEC meeting, including:

1. Jesuit Identity and Mission – Strengthening the distinct Jesuit identity in schools.
2. Teacher Training, Formation, and Leadership Development – Addressing teacher turnover and budget challenges through structured training and formation for both Catholic and non-Catholic educators, aligned with curriculum goals.
3. Student Well-being and Inclusivity – Ensuring mental health support and holistic formation for students, while promoting inclusivity and alignment with Jesuit values.
4. Collaboration and Continuity in the Jesuit Network – Enhancing communication, resource sharing, and globalization within the Jesuit network to ensure continuity in mission.
5. Academic Standards, Curriculum, and Operational Challenges – Managing curriculum reforms, technology integration, and operational concerns to uphold academic excellence.

An additional discussion focused on the integration of Laudato Si’ principles and the promotion of engaged citizenship, particularly as schools prepare for the upcoming national elections.

Insights on Vocation and Mission

Fr Xavier Olin, SJ, Provincial of the Philippine Jesuit Province, shared insights on the state of the Jesuit community. He reminded school leaders of the importance of remaining rooted in Ignatian Spirituality, which centers on Christ and a mission-oriented life. He encouraged schools to take an active role in promoting vocations, a sentiment echoed by Bro Renzo Akiat, SJ, a scholastic assigned to ADNU and a proud alumnus of Xavier University High School. Bro Renzo shared how his teachers’ living witness of Jesuit values deeply nourished his vocation, challenging JBEC schools to nurture environments that foster such growth.

Highlights of the JBEC Business Meeting

The JBEC business meeting covered a variety of key initiatives, including the recently concluded Eco-summit hosted by Ateneo de Davao, as reported by Mr Danilo Zapanta, Xavier University Junior High School’s Assistant Principal for Administration. Other highlights included the inclusion of Pangantucan High School into the JBEC network, the Ignatian Youth Camp, scouting activities, and global engagement efforts. The day ended with a visit to the Jesse Robredo Museum, honoring the late government leader’s legacy of participatory governance and transparency, and a trip to the Basilica of Peñafrancia.

The Investiture of Fr Aristotle Dy, SJ as ADNU’s 5th President

 
XU Basic Education Administrator with Fr President, Fr Mars P Tan, joining in the Investiture of
Fr Aristotle Dy, SJ—celebrating new beginnings and shared commitments to education and leadership.

On 12 September, the XU Basic Education Administrators witnessed the installation of Fr Aristotle Dy, SJ as the 5th president of ADNU. Fr Dy, who holds a PhD from the University of London and an MA in Buddhist Studies from Hong Kong, delivered an inspiring message on the importance of responding to the unique social and cultural needs of the Bicol region. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to his predecessor, Fr Roberto Rivera, SJ, for laying the groundwork for his future leadership.

Honoring tradition and vision: Fr. Aristotle Dy, SJ, the 5th ADNU President, with the XU Basic
Education Administrator, as we embrace the future of education with renewed dedication and leadership.

Joining the Traslacion

Capping off their visit, the Xavier administrators joined the Traslacion on 13 September, a deeply spiritual event where the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia is transferred to the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral. This procession, steeped in faith and devotion, is a testament to the enduring Marian devotion in the Bicol region. For the XU administrators, joining the Traslacion was a moving experience, strengthening their connection to the larger Jesuit community.

Overall, the experience was not just a gathering of administrators but a grace-filled opportunity to reflect, collaborate, and renew their commitment to Jesuit education and leadership.