EDSA40 | People Power at 40

De La Salle Philippines joins the nation in commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the People Power Revolution. Guided by our Lasallian values of faith, service, and communion, we reaffirm our commitment to truth, justice, and active citizenship.

Renewing Our Shared Prayer and Song

The newly revamped One La Salle Prayer marks a renewed chapter for the DLSP network, thoughtfully re-envisioned to resonate with today’s Lasallian community while remaining deeply rooted in our shared faith, history, and mission.

Credits: All DLSP schools; students; Brothers; administrators; DLSBI
Video editor: Franz Robert Eros Deocariza

The De La Salle Philippines Merchandise Collection is here!

This Christmas, share the gift of hope! Explore our Institutional and Jubilee Year Merchandise and support the De La Salle Brothers, Inc. scholarship program. Every purchase helps shape a brighter future. Don’t miss out – order yours today!

Follow the merch order form link below to place your order! https://forms.gle/K6439CCzuWCGGTfK9

De La Salle Philippines Statement on Opening the 2026 Budget Conference

In light of issues surrounding the 2025 budget, De La Salle Philippines calls on Congress to immediately adopt clear rules for a fully transparent 2026 Bicameral Budget Conference warning that failure to do so will undermine public trust and weaken democratic governance.

Read the full document here.

De La Salle Philippines Marks Two Decades United by Faithful Service, Shared Mission and Innovating for Education

October 6, 2025

De La Salle Philippines Marks Two Decades United by Faithful Service, Shared Mission and Innovating for Education

Horacio Cebrero Hall, Central House Administration

On 6 October 2025, the De La Salle Philippines (DLSP) Central House Administration, together with the Brothers and Lasallian Partners, gathered in a spirit of joy and gratitude for the soft launch of DLSP’s 20th Anniversary a heartfelt celebration and reflection on two decades of Lasallian service and mission since its founding in 2005.

The event opened with inspiring remarks from Mr. Edgar Chua AFSC, President of De La Salle Philippines, whose message set the tone for the event. His address was followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and an exhibit tour. A visual journey through the milestones of DLSP’s twenty-year history. The exhibit featured texts and images that traced DLSP’s story from its humble beginnings, growth, to its commitment to Faith, Service, and Communion, and where it stands today.

Guests later gathered at the Horacio Cebrero Hall for a reflective panel discussion titled “Green Legacy: 20 Questions That Shaped DLSP. Our panelists Mr. Gladstone Cuarteros from Lasallian Mission Services (LMS), Ms. Tanya Alipato from Quality Management and Audit Services (QMAS), Mr. Randy Casayuran, and Ms. Nancy Martin from Administrative Services shared heartfelt memories and insights drawn from their years of service. Their stories resonated deeply with the audience, echoing the enduring spirit of dedication, faith, and community that has long defined the Lasallian family.

The program concluded with heartfelt messages from the Brother President Br. JJ Jimenez FSC, and Br. Dodo Fernandez FSC, Superintendent.

Although the gathering was an intimate one, it also marked a meaningful moment to highlight the DLSP @20 Logo. The design stands as a visual testament to twenty years of unity: guided by faith, dedicated to service, and committed to innovation in education.

Rendered in bronzish gold, the logo evokes a sense of excellence, honor, and joyful commemoration, while the shades of emerald green reflect vitality, renewal, and the ever-growing life of the Lasallian mission. Each element symbolizes a facet of DLSP’s journey:

• Growth and Renewal – reflecting DLSP’s continuous journey of transformation

• Experience and Wisdom – gained from two decades of challenges and triumphs

• Harmony and Collaboration – representing the unity of the sixteen Lasallian schools and partners

• Innovation and Adaptability – openness to new ideas while remaining rooted in Lasallian values

• Legacy and Future Vision – honoring the past while looking ahead with faith and hope.

At the heart of the emblem is Saint John Baptist de La Salle, a timeless tribute to the Founder whose vision continues to illuminate the Lasallian mission today. Surrounding his image are sixteen emblems, representing the schools that together form a circle of unity and shared purpose—a radiant symbol of faith, collaboration, and enduring commitment to serve.

As De La Salle Philippines celebrates this remarkable milestone, its 20th Anniversary stands not merely as a commemoration of the past, but as a renewal of purpose—a reaffirmation that the Lasallian mission, born of faith and sustained by community, will continue to shine brightly and inspire generations to come.

Joint Civil Society Statement & De La Salle Philippines Statement on the Massive Corruption on Flood Control Projects

Filipinos stand united in denouncing the multibillion-peso flood control scandal. We, the Lasallian Network, demand systemic reform grounded in transparency, accountability, and people’s participation. Corruption undermines public safety and the values of honesty and integrity we teach our youth. We call for immediate accountability, prosecution of those responsible, and lasting institutional reform.

Read the full Joint Civil Society Statement Here

Exploring Synergies: DLSP Commission Chairs Assembly 2025

August 27, 2025

Exploring Synergies: DLSP Commission Chairs Assembly 2025

Horacio Cebrero Hall, Central House Administration

On 27 August 2025, the De La Salle Philippines (DLSP) Commission Chairs, Project MILES (Project Ministry Innovations in Lasallian Education) Team, the Lasallian Partners Council, and representatives from the Central House Administration gathered for the annual DSLP Commission Chairs Assembly held at Horacio Cebrero Hall, Central House Administration. The assembly served as a vital platform for strategic alignment, collaborative reflection, and renewed commitment to the Lasallian mission.

The assembly began with an opening prayer led by Br. Jeanoel Endaya FSC, followed by the welcome remarks of Mr. Jose Ramelle E. Javier, Executive Director of De La Salle Philippines - Central House Administration, who also served as host for the event. The program then continued with a Dialogue with the Brother Visitor, Br. Jose Mari L. Jimenez FSC, centered on the theme ‘Exploring Synergies: Achieving Alignment Across the Communities of the Philippine Lasallian Family.’

The program was then followed with a Mid-Philippine Lasallian Family Convocation (PLFC23) review led by Ms. Fritzie Ian De Vera, Chair of the Lasallian Partners Council. She shared that 11 reports were submitted from the DLSP schools, focusing on the extent of integration in two key areas: Dissemination and Implementation.

For dissemination, schools highlighted that the PLFC23 resolutions were introduced during planning sessions and cascaded to the heads of schools. However, challenges emerged such as gaps and inconsistencies, resource and budget constraints, capacity issues, and business continuity concerns.

Ms. Fritzie presented the implementation updates aligned with the convocation themes and resolutions. For Learning Experience, schools emphasized the Lasallian Code of Ethics, leadership formation, and social responsibility, recommending standardized formation programs, mentoring, and inclusive initiatives involving parents and communities. Under Learning Environments, the focus was on developing inclusive, innovative spaces that blend tradition with contemporary needs. In Sharing of Resources, the importance of strengthening partnerships through formalized agreements with DLSP, LGUs, and private organizations was highlighted. Lastly, the Social Environment theme emphasized integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into school programs and establishing systems of shared accountability with partners.

This was followed by updates from the DLSP Commissions, the Lasallian Mission Services Commissions presented by Ms. Brigitte Anne Limbo, and the Modern Conduct of Schools Commissions presented by Ms. Tanya Erica Alipato.

Further highlights included updates and key points on Project MILES presented by

• Leadership and Governance by Dr. Lita Quebengco AFSC,

• Excellence in Education by Dr. Allan Bernardo, and

• Viability and Vitality by Mr. Jeng Pascual.

During the afternoon session, the redesigned DLSP Commissions logo and Brand Style Guide, developed by the Communications and Resource Unit of DLSP, was presented. 

This was followed by a Breakout Session with four groups—Group 1: Learning Experience, Group 2: Learning Environment, Formation & Culture Building, Group 3: Sharing of Resources, and Group 4: Social-Environmental Engagement where participants discussed their shared agenda, strategies and identified expected outcomes.

The gathering proved to be successful as it provided updates that deepen awareness of ongoing network efforts, strengthened connections among councils, teams, and commissions, review and align Commissions three-year plans anchored in 2023 the Philippine Lasallian Family Convocation (PLFC23) and Project Ministry Innovations in Lasallian Education (MILES) to clarify roles and commitments, and identified areas of synergy through collaborative projects and shared agenda.

The day concluded with Closing Remarks by Mr. Edgar O. Chua AFSC, President of De La Salle Philippines.

The shared agenda reflects a unified commitment to the Lasallian mission and serves as a roadmap for deepening engagement, coherence, and collaboration across the network of Lasallian institutions. 

Post-Sojourn Report: A Pilgrimage experience

( Note: This report was originally written in November 2024 )

Arnold R. Capuloy, a long-time member of the Sojourn Coordinating Team (SCT) since 2009, shares his inspiring journey as a person with disability (PWD) joining the 2024 Autumn Sojourn. Despite mobility challenges from past surgeries, Arnold embraced the pilgrimage with the help of his scooter and crutches, navigating airports, buses, and historic cities across France, Italy, and Belgium. His story captures the perseverance, faith, and joy of tracing the footsteps of St. John Baptist de La Salle, proving that the Sojourn experience is possible—and meaningful—for pilgrims of all abilities.

Read the full document here: Post-Sojourn Report

Related article: Join the De La Salle Sojourn 2025: A Pilgrimage of Faith, Legacy, and Discovery

De La Salle Philippines 4th Intellectual Property Summit: One Network, One Vision for Innovation.

30 July 2025

De La Salle Philippines 4th Intellectual Property Summit: One Network, One Vision for Innovation.

Romeo P. Ariniego, MD (RPAMD) Library Auditorium of De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute (DLSMHSI)

On 30 July, representatives from the Intellectual Property Commission of the De La Salle Philippines network of schools came together at the Romeo P. Ariniego, MD (RPAMD) Library Auditorium of De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute (DLSMHSI) for the 4th DLSP Intellectual Property Summit. Centered on the theme “One La Salle, One Vision: Advancing IP Together,” the summit aimed to strengthen collaboration across the Lasallian network in developing and protecting intellectual property, and exchanging measurable targets on their three-year strategy, prepared by the IP Commission.

What began in 2022 as simple meetings has evolved into a meaningful annual event where ideas are shared and plans are shaped. This year’s summit saw greater participation from the De La Salle Philippines Central House administration and members of the DLSP IP Commission reflecting the network’s strong commitment to working together in advancing intellectual property initiatives. With this year’s IP Summit, made possible through various members of the IP Commission's TWG.

The program began with a welcoming message from Chancellor Mr. Ferdinand Berba of DLSMHSI, who encouraged everyone that intellectual property (IP) is not just paperwork—it is a way to protect and fuel new ideas. Securing our inventions gives creators the confidence to share and build on each other’s work. In health care especially, patenting devices and treatments helps make innovations affordable and widely available. IP, then, becomes a springboard for collaboration and life-saving advances.

Our DLSP President, Mr. Edgar O. Chua aFSC, He then gave his keynote message, encouraging all schools to recognize how the IP Commission can contribute to building a stronger network for research and innovation. He also highlighted how tools such as AI can help improve the methods in managing and utilizing intellectual property across all networks.

This was followed by a message of support from Br. Mandy Co Dujunco, FSC, DTheol who shared a reflection on how the concept of IP has evolved over the years along with the founding of the IP Technical Working Group to what is now the IP Commission. He recalled a time when it wasn’t seen as necessary, but today, protecting our intellectual property is essential. As we strive to be of service, IP has become a vital form of support—not only in protecting our research, patents, researchers and staff, but also in protecting our students. It is a crucial service.

Atty. Christopher E. Cruz, PhD, Chair of DLSP IP Commission also shared the role of the IP Commission and plans for building a shared IP system across the De La Salle schools, with his team playing active roles to support the initiatives. 

The summit wasn’t just a talk—it was also a working session. Attendees were divided into three breakout groups based on the DLSP IP Commission’s Three-Year Strategic Priorities:

1. Network Wide IP Awareness and Education

2. Creation and Implementation of IP Policies across all Schools.

3. Provide IP Management services such as IP Protection, consulting, capacity building and technology transfer

Each breakout group proposed specific ideas and practical steps to move forward.Following their discussions, they presented their ideas during the plenary session, where they received feedback and support from fellow participants. This collaborative exchange allowed for further refinement of the commission’s initiatives  and encouraged more collaboration across all our De La Salle Philippines schools. With engagement by more experienced schools to support the development of our Mission Schools, we ensure that proposed actions are practical, aligned with our shared network goals, and tailored to each school's unique context.

To end the day, Atty. Cruz shared that the results of the summit will be presented at the upcoming DLSP Commissions - Chairs Assembly on 27 August 2025. As everyone wrapped up, it was clear that the Lasallian community is ready to take bigger steps in protecting and growing our Lasallian intellectual property.

GRIT and GRACE : Reflections on the Inspiring Life of St. John Baptist de La Salle

From loss and rejection to triumph and sainthood, his story reminds us that grace and grit can lead us through life’s greatest challenges.

You can read this inspiring reflection here: GRIT and GRACE : Reflections on the Inspiring Life of St. John Baptist de La Salle

Statement of the the Lasallian Family in the Philippines on the Impeachment Proceedings

The Lasallian Family in the Philippines issues a strong statement on the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, urging respect for constitutional processes, accountability, and the rule of law. Read the full statement here.

Celebrating Leadership: The Reprint of De La Salle, CEO

As De La Salle Araneta University approaches its 80th anniversary, the Lasallian community is embarking on a meaningful initiative that highlights the legacy of our founder, St. John Baptist De La Salle.  We are proud to announce the reprint of De La Salle, CEO, a compelling work by Mr. Napoleon Almonte that presents St. La Salle not only as the founder of the Brothers of the Christian Schools but also as an exceptional leader with a vision that transformed education.

Originally published 20 years ago, De La Salle, CEO offers a fresh perspective on St. La Salle’s leadership qualities, strategic foresight, and innovative approach to education.  Often regarded primarily for his contributions to pedagogy, this book sheds light on his role as an exemplary CEO—someone who laid the foundations for an enduring institution through principles of servant leadership, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

This initiative invites school leaders across the La Salle network to support the distribution of this reprint, ensuring that students, educators, and administrators can reflect on and learn from St. La Salle’s leadership.  More than just a historical account, De La Salle, CEO offers insights that remain relevant in today's educational and organizational landscapes, inspiring current and future leaders.

Beyond celebrating the university’s milestone anniversary, this reprint underscores the enduring significance of our founder’s legacy.  By fostering discussions around leadership, innovation, and service, we hope to deepen the Lasallian community’s appreciation for the values that continue to guide us.

For those interested in supporting this initiative or learning more, please reach out to Mr. Christopher Polanco, Vice President for Advancement, Linkages, and Special Projects at DLSAU, via email at christopher.polanco@dlsau.edu.ph.

Let’s honor St. John Baptist De La Salle’s leadership and ensure that his lessons resonate with generations to come.

Pathways Pilipinas opens doors to a brighter future for Rohingya youth

Press Release

25 March 2025

Pathways Pilipinas opens doors to a brighter future for Rohingya youth

Manila, Philippines – Pathways Pilipinas, a groundbreaking initiative under the Philippines’ Complementary Pathways programme, was officially launched today with the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among seven (7) partner academic institutions. The signing ceremony marks the formal collaboration between these institutions to provide support for Rohingya scholars under the programme, enabling them to rebuild their lives and contribute to society.

The event, held at the Horacio Cebrero Hall of De La Salle Philippines, was attended by key representatives from the academe, Department of Justice (DOJ), UNHCR and other key stakeholders. The seven founding academic institutions—Columban College Inc. (CCI), De La Salle Brothers Inc. (DLSBI), De La Salle Araneta University (DLSAU), San Beda University (SBU), Saint Louis University (SLU), Tarlac State University (TSU), and University of St. La Salle (USLS)—officially committed to supporting refugees through scholarships, mentorship, and holistic academic programs that focus on integration and self-reliance.

“This agreement marks a significant step forward in our collective efforts to ensure that refugees and stateless persons have the opportunity to access quality higher education in the Philippines,” said Mr. Andyo Abusmas, National Convener of Pathways Pilipinas. “Through this partnership, we are not only offering a degree but also creating safe pathways, through education, for Rohingya youth to thrive and build a better future.”

The MOA sets the framework for the participating institutions to work together in offering educational opportunities to refugees and stateless individuals, with a strong emphasis on supporting their personal and professional development. Under the agreement, each institution will provide scholarship slots, academic support, and other resources necessary to ensure that refugees scholars, Rohingya youth in particular, succeed in their educational pursuits.

“This partnership underscores our commitment to upholding refugee rights in the Philippines,” said State Counsel Paulito de Jesus, assistant head of the Department of Justice - Refugee and Stateless Persons Protection Unit (DOJ-RSPPU). “This agreement will provide the framework for stronger collaboration among the partner academic institutions of the Complementary Pathways programme, which are working tirelessly to support Rohingya scholars who are pursuing their studies in the Philippines.”

The signing of the MOA is a direct outcome of the academic institutions’ participation in the Complementary Pathways Programme, an initiative that seeks to provide alternative pathways for and with refugees, Rohingya in particular, to find durable solutions to their displacement, including through access to education. The collaboration also reinforces the Philippines' ongoing support for refugees as a key element of the country’s longstanding tradition of opening its doors to those seeking safety from war, persecution, and violence.

It also outlines that partner institutions will work closely with the DOJ-RSPPU and UNHCR to implement refugee-centered policies and programs, ensuring that refugee scholars are meaningfully involved in decisions affecting their education and integration.

“Today’s signing ceremony is a powerful demonstration of the commitment of the partner academic institutions under the Complementary Pathways programme of the Philippines and a testament to the belief that education is a key tool for integration and empowerment,” said UNHCR Philippines Head of National Office Maria Ermina Valdeavilla-Gallardo. “With more support committed through Pathways Pilipinas that strengthens this whole-of society approach, we envision more young Rohingya gaining the skills and knowledge they need to rebuild their lives.”

The ceremonial signing marks the beginning of a new chapter for Rohingya youth under the Complementary Pathways Programme, where education will play a central role in fostering integration, empowerment, and self-sufficiency. Through the efforts of Pathways Pilipinas and its partners, refugees will be given the chance to pursue their dreams and build a brighter future.

About Pathways Pilipinas

Pathways Pilipinas is a new non-profit alliance of seven higher education institutions in the Philippines, dedicated to providing refugees and stateless persons with access to higher education. This initiative, which is part of the Philippine Complementary Pathways Programme, focuses on creating opportunities for refugees to rebuild their lives through education and integration into Philippine society.

For more information, please contact : Andyo Abusmas, National Convener

tulonglasalyano@delasalle.ph

Pwersa ng Tunay na Pagkakaisa: Honoring EDSA People Power Through Solidarity and Reflection

On February 25, 2025, we will celebrate the 39th Anniversary of EDSA People Power I Revolution. Despite the current administration’s declaration to downgrade February 25 to a special working holiday—diminishing the significance of this historic event that toppled the Marcos Sr. dictatorship—we, in the Lasallian Family, remain steadfast in upholding the Filipino people’s victory in reclaiming their rights and liberties. We will continue to commemorate this shining moment in history, when the collective power of the people prevailed over corruption, abuse, lack of accountability among public officials, and social injustice.

The DLSP Statement, “Pwersa ng Tunay Na Pagkakaisa,” highlights the rationale for suspending classes and work in DLSP schools. This day is dedicated for commemoration, reflection, and thanksgiving, honoring the significance of EDSA People Power I.

Let us continue to celebrate the achievements of EDSA People Power and remember the many struggles and sacrifices that made it possible. Together with our fellow Filipinos, let us uphold the spirit of solidarity, courage, and collective action as we strive for a just, transparent, and accountable government—one that upholds human rights, protects democratic institutions, and serves the common good.