By Paulyn Erica M Porras
Slp Formator

The Xavier Ateneo Social Development (SD) Cluster capped off its weeklong SD Week by celebrating two decades of social formation and community engagement. Held on 15 March 2025, at XU Audio Visual Room 1, the event was more than just a commemoration, the gathering served as a homecoming for individuals who have shaped the mission since its inception, while also setting the stage for the SD Cluster’s future endeavors in deepening partnerships and venturing into newer grounds.

The celebration was attended by key figures who have played significant roles in Xavier Ateneo’s social development mission. Present at the event were University President Fr Mars P Tan, SJ; Former University President Fr Jose Ramon T Villarin, SJ; Vice President for Social Development Engr Dexter S Lo, together with the current SD formators, Coordinators, and Center Directors. Also in attendance were Dr Hilly Ann Roa-Quiaoit, former Vice President for Research and Social Outreach (RSO); Mr Roel R Ravanera, former Vice President for Social Development; and former Formators and SD Directors. Their presence underscored the strong foundation and lasting impact of the SD Cluster’s mission over the past two decades.

Dr Gina S Itchon, the Director of the Center for Global Health, opened the celebration by recognizing the Social Development (SD) Cluster’s 20-year journey and its lasting impact on community engagement and social transformation. She highlighted the collective efforts of past and present SD leaders in strengthening Xavier Ateneo’s mission. As she concluded her message, Dr Itchon warmly addressed the attendees, saying, “Welcome back!”.

Engr Dexter Lo hangs his commitment to Social Development on the Commitment Tree
during the 20-year celebration of the SD Mission on 15 March 2025, at XU AVR 1.

Engr Dexter Lo led the Pronouncement of New Grounds for SD Mission, emphasizing the need to sustain partnerships and embrace the future with renewed energy. He expressed gratitude for past collaborations and urged continued engagement in initiatives tackling poverty, environmental sustainability, and capacity-building. He also highlighted XU’s expanding role in global sustainability networks and research collaborations to drive meaningful change.

The event was made warm and nostalgic by the testimonials and sharing of the guests. Dr Roa-Quiaoit reflected on how they brought Xavier University beyond its walls, given the space to grow and make an impact. To her, the university is more than an institution—it is a nest of love. She highlighted how the RSO training and culture, now SocDev, has flourished and left a lasting mark. Former Director of the Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana - Social Involvement Office (KKP-SIO), Engr Ermin Stan B Pimentel, shared how the same spirit of service and social involvement continues to shape the university’s mission and impact.

 Fr Mars Tan, SJ and Fr Jett Villarin SJ, gave their testimonials during the 20-year celebration of the SD Mission on 15 March 2025, at XU AVR 1.

Moreover, Father Jett shared his joy in being back, reflecting on his time as XU President and the lessons learned through challenges. He described social development as sowing seeds, trusting that efforts will take root in Xavier’s fertile ground. Encouraging renewed ties, he emphasized, “We are not afraid to begin things.” Father Mars also expressed his joy in reuniting with colleagues in Social Development, reflecting on his time at XU starting at McKeough Marine Center in 2009, and recognizing that SD's success is built on the efforts of many. He emphasized, “We can all still work together,” explaining that, even though some are now part of different institutions, this allows their collective impact to grow even larger. He assured that the Social Development Office would continue to play a key role in shaping responsible citizens.

Laughter and joyful faces filled XU-AVR 1 during the SD@20 Anniversary gathering, marking a happy reunion of Xavier Ateneo's Social Development workers

The celebration concluded with a heartfelt commitment to social development as attendees took part in the symbolic act of hanging their pledges on the Commitment Tree. The celebration then continued with laughter, camera clicks, and stories of love and dedication echoed through the venue, capturing the spirit of two decades of impactful work, as memories were shared, reflections deepened, and a renewed commitment to social transformation took root—bracing the mission toward stronger connections and newer grounds.