Members of the Xavier Ateneo community and sustainability partners gather during the
Atiman Kinaiyahan Culminating Activity in celebration of environmental stewardship
and care for our common home.
The Xavier University Atiman Kinaiyahan Tree Growing Program successfully held its 2nd Annual Culminating Activity on 13 May 2026 at the Little Theater, gathering members of the university community, including active partners and volunteers, in a meaningful celebration of collaboration and shared commitment to caring for our common home.
The program, hosted by NSTP AGC 2.1, was formally opened by Engr Lennie K Ong, Project Director of the Campus of the Future (CoF) Development Office and Chair of the Atiman Kinaiyahan Committee, who emphasized that “we don't just plant trees, we grow green spaces”. She shared that approximately 1,131 institutions and individuals, excluding NSTP students, volunteered during Academic Year 2025-2026, bringing the total number of trees planted to 6,777 as of February 2026. She further emphasized that everyone is called to become heroes for the environment and to renew this commitment every year. A video presentation entitled “The Journey” was also shown, highlighting the milestones, initiatives, and collective efforts of the Atiman Kinaiyahan Program for the past academic year.
The official Atiman Kinaiyahan logo is unveiled, symbolizing Xavier Ateneo’s
continuing commitment to sustainability and integral ecology.
During the event, Ms Kiera Dominique L Dacalos of NSTP ACA 2.1 led the Big Reveal: Logo Launch, wherein she introduced the new official identity and symbol of the Atiman Kinaiyahan Program. The launch marked an important step in highlighting the initiative’s visibility and mission.
Fr Mars P Tan, SJ shares insights on Stewardship in Action
The main feature of the event was the presentation of Fr Mars P Tan SJ, University President, on “Stewardship in Action”, where he defined stewardship as the biblical responsibility of caring for God’s creation. He highlighted the vital role of trees in sustaining life—cleaner air, biodiversity, soil protection, and climate regulation. Fr Mars emphasized that stewardship must be translated into sustained, collective action through community engagement, noting that it is a lifelong commitment requiring perseverance. He also shared practical approaches and success stories in forest rehabilitation, affirming that caring for nature is both a moral and practical responsibility of all.
Towards the end of the program, “Voices from the Field” featured students Ms Anya Marie Alamaban and Ms Hannah Andrea N Cruz, and staff Ms Ma Lucila Pacamo who shared meaningful experiences and inspiring stories from their involvement in Atiman Kinaiyahan activities. Their reflections emphasized the importance of personal as well as collective action and sustained commitment in caring for the environment.
To recognize the contributions and dedication of individuals and partner groups, a Recognition and Awarding ceremony was also conducted, honoring those who actively supported and advanced the University’s sustainability and ecological initiatives.
The program concluded with closing remarks by Mr Nestor Banuag, SIAP Director and AK Committee Member, and photo opportunities to further inspire participants to continue working toward a greener, more sustainable, and environmentally conscious Xavier Ateneo community.
