By: Sophia Pacheco
Photo credits: Mr. Davy Chioa
Letran Manila hosted the ONELetran Community Service Cluster’s Forum and General Assembly at St. Thomas Hall, on Mar. 6, which gathered students and employees from Letran Manila, Bataan, Calamba, and Manaoag campuses to participate in discussions and activities about community service, volunteerism, and leadership.
The event began with a Holy Mass, presided by Rev. Fr. Jose Martin Sibug, O.P., emphasizing the significance of the Lenten season.
“Sacrifice. Isa sa mga panawagan ng Lenten Season, deny yourself, detachment. You should detach from worldly things, and embrace the cross, the symbol of suffering of Jesus Christ.” Fr. Sibug said in his homily.
In his opening remarks, Rev. Fr. Patricio Hiwatig O.P., encouraged the participants to continue their commitment to service.
“Sana mas lalo pang yumabong at lumago ‘yung ating desire na makapaglingkod,” Fr. Hiwatig stated.
The first talk titled ‘Letranites as Pilgrims of Hope’ delivered by Rev. Fr. Jose Martin Sibug, shared his volunteer experiences in Camiguin Island, aiming to inspire the participants with his firsthand experiences of service and mission work.
“After several years, Letran partnered with the community in Babuyan Island, particularly in Camiguin Norte as our partner community.” Fr. Sibug shared.
Mr. Froilan Alipao, a development worker, educator, and researcher, then gave a discussion under the theme 'Community Engagement and Service (CES) volunteers contribute to the Church, the Nation, and Global Communities'.
He emphasized community development concepts and encouraged students to develop not only leadership abilities, but also a strong sense of community engagement.
“Ang pagmamahal ay hindi lang siya sa salita, kundi ang pagmamahal ay kongkretong pinapakita. Dapat mayroon kang ginagawa.” Mr. Alipao stated.
He also highlighted the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and its efforts in community development.
“We are all extensions of the mission and vision of our institution. In fact we try to contextualize the mission and vision of our university to our communities,” he added.
In the afternoon session, Dr. Yolanda C. Lazo facilitated team-building exercises for student volunteers and faculty members.
Participants then went on a "Lakbay Aral" or educational tour of Intramuros, highlighting the area's historical and cultural significance before concluding the general assembly and forum.