By Vincent Cabanlit Manus 
XU community organizer 

On 20 December 2025, the El Gaucho community celebrated its annual Christmas gathering at the El Gaucho Mansion in Upper Puerto, Cagayan de Oro City. This yearly celebration served as a meaningful occasion for reconnecting and bringing together all beneficiaries of Xavier University at El Gaucho.

This year’s meaningful celebration began with a Holy Mass celebrated by Xavier University President Fr Mars P Tan, SJ. During the Mass, members of the El Gaucho community were joined by XU student leaders, donors, benefactors, friends, and community organizers.

The Christmas gathering was a heartwarming event filled with hope and gratitude. Through the support of the Xavier University Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (XUCMPC) and the Tanging Yaman Foundation (TYF), in partnership with XU’s Social Involvement and Advocacy Program (XU-SIAP), Pamasko gift packs and Noche Buena packages were distributed to the beneficiaries. This collaboration was made possible through the dedication of XU community organizers and serves as a reflection of the University’s mission of service and its commitment to spreading hope within the community.

Sincere gratitude is extended to the Office of the President; the XUCMPC, led by its Social Development Chair Rona Relevo, together with committee members Mr Adrian Tagud and Mr Edbert Galendez; and the Social Involvement and Advocacy Program (XU-SIAP), under the leadership of Mr Nestor Banuag, SIAP Director, along with its volunteers, for preparing the gift packs. The Xavier University Central Student Government (CSG) also played a significant role in organizing and hosting the program. Appreciation is likewise extended to the officers and volunteers of the El Gaucho Homeowners Association, Inc., and the El Gaucho Credit Cooperative for their invaluable assistance in planning and preparing for the celebration.

The El Gaucho community is composed of informal settlers and identified beneficiaries of Xavier University land in Upper Puerto, Cagayan de Oro City. In line with its mission, Xavier University provides land and support for housing initiatives for these beneficiaries. Through this effort, the University shows its lasting dedication to community development and social responsibility.