SEARSOLIN marked the end of 2015 with a re-launching program carrying the theme of bayanihan towards forging synergy to forward inclusive development in Southeast Asia.
COLLABORATION. New partners of SEARSOLIN sign the memorandum of understanding to work together in achieving inclusive growth and lasting partnership. Photo courtesy of Xavier Science Foundation.
By Rose Geonzon, Year of Service volunteer
Xavier University – Southeast Asia Rural Social Leadership Institute (SEARSOLIN) marked the end of 2015 with a re-launching program bearing the theme, BAYANIHAN: Forging Synergy to Forward Inclusive Development in Southeast Asia.
The event was held on the same day as Fr William F Masterson’s 105th birth anniversary.
Fr Masterson was the dreamer and doer of impossible things. He founded SEARSOLIN, the Xavier College of Agriculture and Xavier Science Foundation Inc, among others.
The community gathered at the Jesuit gravesite in Manresa to celebrate the Eucharist presided by Archbishop Antonio J Ledesma SJ DD in the early morning of December 17.
This was followed by the re-launching program of SEARSOLIN and the MOU signing with its new partners – Department of Agriculture represented by assistant regional director for operations Roxana Hojas, Department of Social Welfare and Development represented by assistant regional director for operations Aldersey Mumar Dela Crus, Cooperative Development Authority represented by OIC regional director Cristina Villamil, and Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry represented by president Engr Cereal Donggay. The Institute of Formation - Fondacio Asia’s director Alice Tan was able to take part in the program via Skype.
The partners signed a memorandum of understanding and gave their messages – each expressing their willingness to help work for the advancement of inclusive growth not only in Mindanao and in the Philippines, but also in Southeast Asia.
REMEMBERING FR MASTERSON. The SEARSOLIN community members gather at the Jesuit gravesite in Manresa to celebrate the Eucharist presided by CDO Archbishop Antonio J Ledesma SJ DD in the early morning of December 17. Photo by XSF.