Ateneo theology teachers join encounter: When blue, green, and yellow theologians unite

Last 11 October 2023, theologians from the University of Santo Thomas, Ateneo de Manila University, and De La Salle University met at Martyrs’ Hall Ecclesiastical Faculties at UST for an afternoon of sharing best practices and concerns. 

How It All Started

Dr. Allan Basas, the assistant director of the Institute of Religion of the University of Santo Tomas, contacted Dr. Ruben Mendoza, chair of the Department of Theology of Ateneo de Manila University, and raised the idea about having a gathering of theology teachers from Ateneo de Manila University, University of Santo Tomas (UST), and De La Salle University (DLSU).  Mendoza thought it was a good idea since all three schools had a common theological education mission but had never met in a formal assembly to become aware of each other’s theology programs.  It would be fruitful to engage each other in dialogue and even collaborate on a common project.

Dr. Mendoza contacted Dr. Lysander Rivera, chair of the Department of Theology and Religious Education (DTRE) of De La Salle University, who agreed that the three schools meet.  An initial Zoom meeting was held on May 24 to plan for this first-ever gathering.  They agreed that a good way to begin would be to present the theology programs of each institution.  The original date for the forum was October 4, but due to a shift in DLSU leadership from Dr. Rivera to Dr. Rebecca Cacho, as well as other academic commitments of some members, the meeting was moved to October 11.  The flow was finalized by Dr. Basas of UST, Dr. Mendoza of Ateneo, and DTRE’s OIC, Dr. Dothy Javier-Martinez. 

Making History

Sir-Lien Hugh T. Tadeo emceed the event.  Dr. Basas gave the Welcome Remarks.  Presentations were done by Dr. Willard Macaraan and Dr. Marilou Ibita for DLSU, followed by Ph.D. candidate Mr. Miko Galvez and Dr. Justin Badion of Ateneo.  Then, Dr. Rey Vargas of UST gave his presentation.  There was a lively discussion studded with questions, after each of the schools presented. 

Photos courtesy of the Ateneo Theology Department.