By: Jysel Ashley Ayop, Keziah Loucille Mallorca
XU Administrators, Faculty, Formators, Students, and Community Partners gathered together during the
Social Involvement and Advocacy Summit on 4 March 2026.
On 4 March 2026, Xavier University held its Social Involvement and Advocacy Summit at the Little Theater, showcasing transformative projects in environment, health, community, and civic duty.
Engr Dexter S Lo opened the event by calling for collaboration among "future heroes" to achieve sustainable impact. Dr Juliet Q Dalagan followed, emphasizing that social development "makes the invisible, visible," and noted that by integrating the SDGs and Laudato Si’ goals, the university educates beyond the classroom. The summit featured presentations on how academic knowledge is applied to real-world movements across four categories: Environment and Science, Health and Inclusivity, Community Engagement, and Citizens’ Rights.
Environment and Science
Engr Lennie K Ong, Project Director of the Campus of the Future, shared her personal reflection and
insights on the Atiman Kinaiyahan Tree Growing Project.
XU Junior Marketing Association (JMA) presented “Kabakawan nga Motubo, Komunidad na Molambo,” a project that improved mangrove sanctuary practices in Barangay Bonbon through a case study, cleanup drives, and educational infographics.
The Association of the College of Engineering Students (ACES) introduced Project Agos-Kalinga, which maps terrain via GPS to channel floodwaters into sustainable irrigation and sanitation systems in Talakag, Bukidnon.
Engr Lennie K Ong discussed the XU Atiman sa Kinaiyahan tree-growing initiative, which mandates planting three trees for every one cut during campus development. She noted the project covers the entire lifecycle, stating, “it was a whole host of activities—from seed to... taking care of the tree [to ensure growth].”
The MAERS Center detailed Bayanihan sa Baybayon, a strategic coastal cleanup in Jasaan. The initiative featured site assessments for efficient waste collection and data reporting to the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) to combat marine pollution.
Health and Inclusivity
Mr John Gabriel Lasquites, a faculty member of the XU Psychology Department, shared their collaborative
initiative on psychosocial health with their community partner, Barangay 17.
The XU Central Student Government (CSG) mobilized Alaga Kabataan: Project Ligtas, teaching drug safety and basic life support to out-of-school youth in Barangay 17. Danielle Hanasan (BS Psy-2) noted that despite their small numbers, the community was "eager... to help with the cause." Expanding on this, Project Serbisyo utilized art therapy and small group discussions to support mental healthcare and relationship building for youth in Barangay Canitoan.
The XU Special Educator Society (SPEDSOC) presented AMPING Atenista, which focuses on disaster risk reduction for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The group emphasized that “Inclusion must be intentional... It is everyone’s responsibility.”
The Warmth of Caring project—a collaboration between 9+ students—provided psychological first aid to fire victims in Barangay 17. The initiative focused on the "look, listen, and link" method to strengthen positive coping mechanisms within the affected community.
Community Engagement
XU NSP Student, Ijean Mancia, shared her personal journey and realizations on
social involvement through Arrupe Educational Center.
Theology 2 students presented their AGAPE immersion in Cogon Market, where they assisted vendors with daily tasks to experience societal realities. Student James Abbu noted the project’s focus on advocating for social justice through "selfless and unconditional care for others."
The XU Economics Society introduced Pakigsayod, an initiative across several Barangays to empower residents with consumer rights and responsibilities. The project led to the establishment of consumer welfare desks in each community.
The UNITASS Council discussed Beyond Borders: A CommunTEACH, a tutoring program in Talongan Village. By teaching reading, writing, and math to children aged 3–16, the project successfully addressed local learning gaps.
Finally, the Arrupe Educational Center - Night School Program (AEC-NSP) presented Project Banwag. Under the theme "Renewed Minds, Resilient Spirits," the project bridges classroom knowledge to night schools in Barangay Talongan, featuring presenters who are themselves learners striving to continue their education.
Citizen Rights and Responsibilities
Highlighting youth empowerment and civic awareness in choosing the right leaders,
Lathela Cimafranca shared the key highlights in imeplementing the project PAG-ILA 2025.
Under the banner of civic engagement, the XU CSG led an Anti-Corruption Campaign to foster a culture of integrity and accountability. To further strengthen governance, Pag-ila 2025 hosted a press conference to deepen voter awareness of local candidates' plans and advocacies. Additionally, a Satellite Voters’ Registration drive was held at the Senior and Junior High Schools, removing barriers to political participation and encouraging students to exercise their right to vote.
In closing, Dr Kairos Romerik A Benedicto and Engr Billy Jhones A Adaya shared their insights, noting they were personally inspired by the student-led initiatives and expressed their eagerness to serve as future mentors. SIAP Director Nestor M Banuag, Jr concluded the event by reaffirming SIAP’s commitment to holistic formation, challenging students to continue identifying community-based solutions with partners. Attendees left reignited with hope, reaffirming Xavier University’s mission to form "men and women for others" dedicated to Mindanao's sustainable ascent.
