PREPARE 2025: Embracing Retirement with Confidence and Purpose

Retirement is not the end of a career—it’s the beginning of a new chapter filled with meaning, renewal, and various possibilities. 

In line with Ateneo de Manila University’s commitment to care for its employees beyond their years of active service, the Employee Engagement Section under the Office of the Vice President for University Human Resources (OVP-UHR) launched the 2025 cycle of the Pre-Retirement Education Program for Ateneo Employees (PREPARE). PREPARE was held from April to July 2025, with both onsite and online participation from our employees.

More than just a series of talks, PREPARE is a journey—one that supports employees nearing retirement as they take confident and purposeful steps toward life after work. This year’s program gathered colleagues from various units of the University as they prepare for one of life’s most significant transitions.

Each session was designed not only to address the practical aspects of retirement but also to honor the emotional, spiritual, and personal dimensions of this upcoming new life stage.

PREPARE 2025 Sessions

Psychology of Retirement (3 April 2025)
Facilitator: Dr Edna P Franco 

Through engaging storytelling, research insights, and reflective activities, Dr Franco guided participants in understanding the emotional and psychological shifts that come with retirement.

The session explored common anxieties—loss of identity, lifestyle changes, health concerns—and offered a hopeful reframing of retirement as a period of renewal. Dr Franco walked participants through the phases of retirement and encouraged them to begin planting seeds for a fulfilling life after work.

Participants were invited to reflect on what they want their post-retirement life to look like, and to take concrete steps—financial, social, and spiritual—toward that vision.

“Retirement is not just about leaving work. It’s about arriving—into a life you truly want,” one participant shared.

From building routines to rediscovering passions, the session inspired many to embrace the transition with confidence and curiosity. 

Usapang Pera: Financial Literacy (25 April 2025)
Facilitator: Mr Mariel Vincent A Rapisura

Mr Vince Rapisura delivered a highly engaging and practical session on financial literacy—complete with investment tips, budgeting strategies, and personal stories that made the topic relatable and easy to grasp. Participants appreciated the hands-on exercises like computing the future value of money and gained concrete advice on how to assess financial readiness.

“Akala ko huli na ako sa financial planning. Pero sabi ni Sir Vince, ‘It’s never too late to start.’ That gave me so much hope.” 

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Spirituality of Retirement (7 May 2025)
Facilitator: Ms Remedios M Rivera

Through breathing exercises, personal sharing, and practical insights, Ms Rivera helped participants embrace the transition with grace.

“We always have a mission. If you find your innermost desire, maybe that’s also God’s desire.” 

From naming emotions to redefining life beyond Ateneo, the session offered a meaningful reminder: retirement is a new beginning rooted in faith and continued service. 

Life After Ateneo (11 June 2025)
Speakers: Dr Gina P Serquina, Mr Leon E Bernardino, and Ms Bernardita G Yacaba

Heartfelt talks, relatable stories, and real answers made this session truly meaningful. Participants appreciated the Q&A portions that addressed real-life retirement concerns. The inspirational yet practical insights from the speakers, along with warm and engaging facilitation by Ms Felicidad B Santos, created a safe space for learning and reflection. Familiarity with the resource persons fostered trust and connection that led to an enriching discussion.

“I am ten years away from retirement age, but this was a very insightful and enlightening session for me. I was inspired by our speakers who spoke about life after retirement: work, health, hobbies, relationships and spiritual life. Some of their advice is very practical and can already be done as early as now.” 

Dealing with the Government on Mandated Benefits (4 July 2025)
Speakers: Representatives from SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth

The session offered straightforward and comprehensive presentations on government-mandated benefits, retirement packages, and post-employment entitlements. The facilitators walked participants through actual procedures, timelines, and requirements, shedding light on often-confusing processes like certifications and retirement pay.

“I finally understand what steps to take and where to go (referring to the specific government agency). It gave me peace of mind.” 

University Retirement Benefits Orientation (4 July 2025)
Facilitators: Ms Suzanne L Melaya and Ms Aileen Grace S Demata

The session provided a comprehensive overview of Ateneo’s retirement benefits, including CEAP updates, certification and package details. Facilitators Ms Suzanne Melaya and Ms Aileen Demata were praised for presenting relevant and well-explained information.

“The input was most helpful—it answered many of my questions about the process.” 

Livelihood Session (17 July 2025)
Facilitator: Mr Mikiel Baluyot

This session opened doors to new income possibilities through online selling. Participants learned clear, doable steps for starting digital businesses, from setting up a Shopee store to crafting compelling product listings.

What made the session even more engaging were the real-life stories shared—proof that success can start from home, with just a few tools and a lot of heart. The facilitator’s approachable style, combined with an open Q&A, made complex business ideas simple and relatable.

“I left the session feeling ready and excited to try this out myself. Hoping for another session with this kind of program.”

This practical and inspiring session proved that with the right guidance, more confidence can be gained to leap into entrepreneurship. 

PREPARE celebrates the milestone of turning 60 as a season of renewal, growth, and discovery.

Maraming salamat to all participants, speakers, and support teams who made PREPARE 2025 a success. We look forward to continuing this meaningful journey in the years ahead.