Dr. Kathleen Tiglao and Dr. Rica Ancheta participated in the 31st ASEACCU Conference 2025, which was held at Providence University in Taichung, Taiwan, from August 18 to 20, 2025. They were accompanied by Dom Caedmon and Fr. Molina, OSB.
The program began with an Opening Mass at the Our Lady of Providence Chapel, followed by a welcome message from Prof. Lucia Shin-Ling Lin, President of Providence University. In her address, she emphasized the importance of integrating knowledge, faith, and technology to nurture young individuals who possess the potential for dynamism and collaboration. Rev. Monsignor Stefano Mazzotti from the Apostolic Nunciature also delivered a brief message, recognizing the significant milestones in the lives of the young participants and urging everyone to keep the flames of the kingdom alive, where hope is cultivated in daily life. Mr. Steve Cheng, Deputy Mayor of Taichung City Government, shared a message affirming that the event united faculty, administrators, and students, highlighting Providence University’s role as a hub of global education. He encouraged participants to embrace the warmth and diversity of the city.
Following this, Dr. Stephen Morgan presented a talk titled “Pilgrims of Hope: Spiritual Development and Action of Gen Z.” He emphasized that engaging with young people presents an opportunity to connect with others. He urged Gen Z to emulate Jesus’ example by cultivating relationships with God and one another, resisting the temptation to label individuals, and bridging the gap between actions and words. He concluded by stating that the world needs Christ, and we must turn to Him, the source of truth, where we can always find hope.
After a break, the program resumed with Keynote Speech II, a Board Meeting, and a Campus Tour. In the afternoon, a Panel Discussion commenced at 2:20 PM, followed by afternoon tea and the General Assembly at 3:40 PM. This schedule was repeated the following day, culminating in a Cultural Tour and Dinner at Xi Wei Xiang Restaurant in downtown Taichung.
The final day began with Panel Discussion IV, showcasing performances from participating schools, and concluded with an MOU Signing Ceremony held at the International Conference Hall. Fr. Molina, OSB, represented Fr. Gerardo Ma. De Villa, OSB, during the official signing of the MOU with Sanata Dharma University, Indonesia, and the University of St. Joseph, Macao. The conference concluded with a closing Mass.
(MOU Signing Ceremony at the International Conference Hall, Anthony Kuo Hall)
Overall, it was a truly enriching experience filled with hope, diversity, and joyful collaboration among academic institutions in Southeast Asia.
San Beda College Alabang has revitalized its ties with higher education institutions, as the Institutional Advancement Division focuses on strengthening partnerships and collaborations with international partners. The process of institutional internationalization is in progress, led by Dr. Kathleen Tiglao and Dr. Rica Ancheta. With the recently formed Office of International Affairs and Linkages Unit, San Beda College Alabang is poised to connect with a global network, setting the stage for academic excellence and innovative research.