Delegates for the AJCU-AP Service-Learning Program and the Uniservitate Service Learning Student Fellowship paid
a courtesy visit to and received a blessing from Fr Mars P Tan before their respective trips.

Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, through its Service Learning Program (SLP) and Office of International Cooperation and Networking (OICN), is solidifying its role as a key contributor to international partnerships by sending student and faculty delegations to two significant service-learning programs: the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in Asia Pacific (AJCU-AP) Service-Learning Program in Naga City and the Uniservitate Service-Learning Student Fellowship in Cebu City.

AJCU-AP Service-Learning Program: "One with Nature" in Naga City

XU is a member institution of the AJCU-AP, an association of Jesuit higher educational institutions (HEIs) and Jesuit higher educational endeavors (HEEs) within the Jesuit Conference for East Asia and Oceania (JCEAO). The Service-Learning Program (SLP) is a core initiative of the consortium that provides a platform for Jesuit university students to apply Ignatian Pedagogy through impactful community engagements. Each year, member universities send students and faculty members to participate in this two to three-week international service-learning program.

This year’s 14th iteration of the program, hosted by Ateneo de Naga University, focuses on the theme "One with Nature." Inspired by Pope Francis's encyclical Laudato Si' on caring for our common home, the program highlights the interconnectedness of all creation and invites participants to reflect on the marvel and harmony of nature. The two-week program in Naga City, which runs from August 2 to 16, provides participants with an immersive learning experience through a variety of activities wherein a major highlight will be the hands-on activities related to the biodiversity and protection of Mt Isarog, a haven for an incredible diversity of flora and fauna in Luzon, as well as mangrove reforestation and immersion in Calabanga, Camarines Sur.

XU delegation for the AJCU-AP Service-Learning Program are set to begin their journey in Naga City.

Representing Xavier University are the following delegates:

• Ms Leigh Kyla Rondina – BS Development Communication (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Mr Johnwel Kyle C Amansec – BS Industrial Engineering (College of Engineering)
• Ms Katrina A Daba – BS Secondary Education Major in English (School of Education)
• Mr Zaldy S Ocon Jr – BS Marine Biology (College of Arts and Sciences)

They are accompanied by faculty companion Ms Ruby Jane B Rivera, Chairperson of the IS/History Department (College of Arts and Sciences), and formator companion Mr John Louis R Caga. Through this program, the delegates will engage with local partner communities, understanding their social contexts and collaborating on shared advocacies to cultivate a deeper sense of responsibility and love for the natural world.

Uniservitate - Asia and Oceania’s Service Learning Student Fellowship

In another significant international engagement, Xavier University is sending a delegation to the Uniservitate - Asia and Oceania’s Service Learning Student Fellowship. Scheduled to be held from 3 to 11 August 2025 in Cebu City, this program is part of the Uniservitate global network which aims to promote solidarity service-learning in Catholic Higher Education Institutions. De La Salle University is Uniservitate Regional Hub for Asia and Oceania and this year’s SLSF will be co-facilitated by University of San Carlos. This international service-learning network seeks to create a systemic change by institutionalizing service-learning as a tool for integral education and active commitment to contemporary challenges.

All smiles and ready for their journey, the Uniservitate SLSF Delegates look forward to their fellowship in Cebu City.

The Xavier University delegates for the fellowship are:

• Ms Vea Grace Baconguis - BS Secondary Education Major in Social Studies (School of Education)
• Mr Lex C Zulieta - BS Marine Biology (College of Arts and Sciences)

They are joined by their SLP formator companion, Victoria Melissa C Pulido. The fellowship provides a platform for students to share their service-learning experiences, strategies, and best practices. It is a testament to the university's impactful service-learning initiatives, which have been recognized on a wider scale. The fellowship’s emphasis on research and reflection allows participants to explore the spiritual dimension of service-learning and its impact on students' personal and professional development.

All set for the global Service-Learning programs, the Xavier University delegation is pictured with SLP Director Ms Gail dela Rita.

The participation of Xavier University in these two international programs highlights the university's dedication to developing globally-minded, socially engaged citizens. The delegations will not only represent Xavier University and the Philippines but also bring back invaluable insights and experiences that will enrich the university's service-learning program and foster a stronger culture of social responsibility among the student body. Through these international engagements, Xavier University underscores its commitment to global engagement, and collaboration, extending its impact beyond the local community by fostering global solidarity.