The University hosted the JEEPGYM Caravan and Dapat Isa Lang Movement last August 27 at the Santuario De La Salle, bringing together representatives from 28 Catholic schools across the Negros Island Region. The initiative, supported by the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) and the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC), gathered participating schools for discussions on faith, formation, and civic engagement.
The JEEPGYM Caravan emphasized the role of Catholic education in translating the social teachings of the Church into meaningful and concrete action. CEAP Vice-President Fr. Wilmer Tria presented JEEPGYM as a framework for integral human formation, highlighting the responsibility of Catholic schools to help students understand present-day social challenges through the lens of faith and prepare them for active participation in nation-building and civic life. Fr. Wilmer further shared CEAP’s commitment to forming citizens dedicated to social justice and the common good.
Meanwhile, Karlo Abadines of Simabahang Lingkod Bayan introduced the Dapat Isa Lang Movement and its advocacy for governance free from political dynasties through a People’s Initiative. He discussed the movement’s goal of promoting a different political culture by mobilizing citizens toward the passage of an anti-political dynasty law. Abadines also discussed the extent of political dynasties in the Philippines, citing that more than 70% of members of the House of Representatives, senators, provincial governors, and city mayors are related to one another, either directly or indirectly.
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Through the sessions, participants were encouraged to examine the role of Catholic educational institutions in responding to concrete issues affecting communities and society. The discussions also highlighted the importance of dialogue, civic participation, and faith-informed action in addressing social concerns.
The afternoon program featured separate sessions for administrators, teachers and staff, and student leaders, providing participants with opportunities to further engage with the themes of formation and civic responsibility.
Through initiatives such as the JEEPGYM Caravan, the University continues to support efforts that equip its community and partner institutions to participate meaningfully in building a more just and inclusive society.