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RGLSOSS WEEK 2025: Everything Everywhere All at RGLSOSS
RGLSOSS WEEK 2025: Everything Everywhere All at RGLSOSS
The Dr. Rosita G. Leong School of Social Sciences (RGL-SoSS) had an incredible lineup of events for RGLSoSS Week, which ran from April 21st to May 2nd, 2025.
From insightful lectures and engaging workshops to exciting discussions and cultural immersions, there truly was something for everyone. Attendees dove into fascinating topics like global health methodologies, the strategic roles of Japan and South Korea in Southeast Asia, the rich tapestry of East Asian tea cultures, and the legacy of Filipino scholars. Many also joined an "Econ-tuhan" session with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas or explored the cultural dimensions of "Diskarte."
The week offered a wonderful chance to hear from esteemed faculty, renowned guest speakers, and talented student researchers. We were also proud to have hosted special events celebrating outstanding research, pedagogical innovation, and even a fun-filled Thanksgiving Dinner for our faculty and staff.
It was a truly memorable RGL-SoSS Week, and we thank everyone who participated!
On April 23, 2025, the CSP and RLCCS lecture series featured Dr. Francisco Navarro (Ateneo Chinese Studies Program faculty, St. Luke Medical Center’s consultant).
The talk focused on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) eating principles, emphasizing that how we eat is as crucial as what we eat for health, covering balanced practices and detrimental habits. Dr. Navarro emphasized that food is more than just sustenance—that is it a powerful tool for maintaining the body and mind’s balance and promoting health in general. The philosophy behind TCM food therapy is rooted in the idea that different foods have energetic properties that can influence the body's Qi (or the vital energy), Yin, and Yang
balance, and overall well-being of an individual
On April 22, 2025, the Ateneo Chinese Studies Program and Japanese Studies
Program partnered to host the "Tea Cultures in East Asia". The event explored the
rich cultural significance of tea, allowing participants to learn about various tea
leaves and flowers. More technical parts of consuming teas were discussed in the
lecture. As green and black tea come from Camellia sinensis, they differ in the
processing of leaves, hence the flavor, and benefits. Green tea may be steamed or
pan-fired, preserving its fresh, grassy taste and offers lower caffeine. While black tea
is fully oxidized, developing a bold, malty flavor with higher caffeine. The highlightof the event was the tasting of the different tea brews and their pairings with other
flavored leaves. The speakers were Dr. Hiroko Nagai, an anthropologist specializing
in Japanese food culture, and Aaron Joseph S. Medina, an Ateneo Chinese Studies
faculty member who teaches Chinese Art & Society and Theology.
Lords of Contention: Patronage, Mobility, and Social Networks in the Archbishopric of Manila (16th – 17th centuries) Faura AVR, 23 April 2025, 3:30-5PM
Lords of Contention: Patronage, Mobility, and Social Networks in the Archbishopric of Manila (16th – 17th centuries) Faura AVR, 23 April 2025, 3:30-5PM
On April 23, 2025, the Ateneo de Manila University's History Department hosted Dr. Alexandre Coello de la Rosa for a lecture entitled “Lords of Contention: Patronage, Mobility, and Social Networks in the Archbishopric of Manila (16th–17th Centuries).” Held at the Faura AVR, the talk examined how elite clerical networks shaped Church-State relations in the Spanish colonial Philippines. Dr. Coello examined the role of Cathedral Chapters and the ways in which bishops and archbishops navigated systems of patronage that extended beyond the ecclesiastical sphere into political affairs. Through a micro-historical lens, he traced how these clerical networks shaped the structures of power in the Spanish colonial Philippines. A professor at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Dr. Coello highlighted the importance of integrating anthropological perspectives into historical research to better understand the complexities of colonial rule. The lecture drew students and scholars from various universities across the country and formed part of the department’s ongoing efforts to promote international academic exchange and new approaches to understanding Philippine history.
On Thursday, April 24, 2025, the Ateneo community gathered at San Alberto Hurtado Hall for the insightful Campus Caravan, "Waves of Contention: Issues, Prospects, and Challenges of the West Philippine Sea."
This vital event addressed the West Philippine Sea as a critical national security issue, deeply impacting our nation’s sovereignty, economy, and regional stability. Students, faculty, and researchers had the invaluable opportunity to engage with national security experts, legal scholars, and policymakers. Together, they explored key challenges and discussed various responses to ongoing maritime disputes.
This exclusive event for the Ateneo community was made possible through a wonderful collaboration between the Ateneo School of Government, the National Security Council, the Local Government Development Institute, the Ateneo Law School, and our very own Dr. Rosita G. Leong School of Social Sciences. It was a powerful session fostering essential dialogue on a crucial national concern
This insightful event explored "Diskarte" – that remarkable Filipino blend of resourcefulness, adaptability, and strategic problem-solving – and how it shapes our nation's vibrant creative landscape. The lecture moved beyond traditional ideas of creativity to truly highlight the ingenuity at the heart of Filipino innovation.
Tagpuan Team Members at Sinsayan sa Katipunan Round 3:From L to R: Nico Panganiban, Angel America, Niks Yumul, Teenee Manguerra
Tagpuan Ateneo Center for Dialogue, Research, and Collaboration, in partnership with the Office for Student Activities for Higher Education and the Council of Organizations, successfully hosted the third "Sinsayan sa Katipunan" on April 24 and 25, 2025.
Inspired by the concept of "pop-up commons," "Sinsayan" — a Tagalog word meaning to drop by, visit, or pause for conversation — truly embodied an act of hospitality and care. As a special part of the Rosita G. Leong School of Social Sciences (RGL-SoSS) Week 2025, this event created a wonderful space for meaningful encounters among students from all walks of life.
Located at the Colayco Pavilion, "Sinsayan sa Katipunan" offered a cozy spot to nourish both body and spirit. Attendees enjoyed comfortable lounging areas, delicious snacks, free coffee, and an abundance of good vibes. Students, faculty, staff, and even their families and friends stopped by throughout the two days to rest, chat, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere.
Attendees got to experience a culinary treat as Malaysian Chef Ramzu Nasri prepared and served four of his signature dishes at the ACAS pop-up in the Gonzaga Cafeteria. Chef Nasri, whose expertise was honed in top hotels and resorts like Shangri-La and Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, brought his distinctive flair to Ateneo.
The menu featured: Rendang Tok, Curry Laksa, Falafel Shawarma Wrap, and hummus with pita
RLGSOSS Open House
RLGSOSS Open House
In case you missed it
In case you missed it
On May 16, the Ateneo de Manila University’s Psychology Department’s Public Mental Health Lab in partnership with the Arete, Ateneo Build, Communications Department, the Ateneo Laboratory for Learning Sciences (ALLS) hosted a Gen AI Camp on Bullying Prevention. The Camp began with welcome message from Dr. Migo Mantaring, Director of Bureau of Learner Support Services of DepEd and Dr. Didith Rodrigo of ALLS. Camille Cariaga from the Bureau of Learning Protection of the Department of Education provided Inputs on the prevalence and type of bullying in public schools. Prof. Gina Hechanova, professor of the Psychology Department and project leader, shared what bystanders and victims of bullying can do. Aaron Vicencio of the Communication Department talked about visual storytelling, and Joben Ilagan talked about Gen AI and prompt architecture.
The Camp brought together 19 college and graduate students from Psychology, Computer Science, Management, Information Design, and Communication Technology from Ateneo de Manila University and CIIT College of Arts and Technology. Using a human-centered design, Grade 7 public school students and their parents shared their experience and suggestions on the type of message and modes of bullying prevention materials. By the end of the day, multi-disciplinary teams pitched possible digital materials for bullying prevention for students and parents. Selected projects will develop their projects for pilot-testing and possible turnover to the Department of Education.
Fostering Meaningful Dialogue: "Towards a Healthy Approach on Difficult Conversations" Workshop
Fostering Meaningful Dialogue: "Towards a Healthy Approach on Difficult Conversations" Workshop
Tagpuan Ateneo Center for Dialogue, Research, and Collaboration recently teamed up with the Social and Environmental Engagement for Development and Sustainability (SEEDS) for a special workshop during the Faculty Wellness Festival on April 11, 2025.
The session, titled "Towards a Healthy Approach on Difficult Conversations," guided participants in collaboratively developing Terms of Engagement for future discussions. This workshop was specifically designed to help our university community foster meaningful, respectful, and collaborative interactions, especially when navigating challenging or high-stakes conversations.
Anchored in Pope Francis' encyclical Fratelli Tutti, the workshop was a beautiful invitation to the sacred work of encounter. It highlighted how creating Terms of Engagement before any endeavor truly becomes a living expression of commitment to one another. Participants greatly valued the opportunity to focus on this pre-engagement tool, seeing it as a powerful step toward a social covenant rooted in dignity, dialogue, and shared humanity.
This was the first iteration of what Tagpuan and SEEDS hope will be a series of workshops.
The Office of the Dean of the Dr. Rosita G. Leong School of Social Sciences, along with the RGL-SoSS Coordinator for Teaching and Learning, were thrilled to host the Pedagogical Innovation Awards Special Commendation Workshops.
These insightful workshops were facilitated by two faculty members who received Special Commendations for their outstanding work in pedagogical innovation: Jehu Emmanuel G. Laniog from the Department of Sociology & Anthropology and Ma. Kristina Carla S. Rico from the Korean Studies Program. It was a wonderful opportunity to share and learn from their innovative approaches to teaching!
During the 21st Raul L. Locsin Awards Dean Czarina Saloma-Akpedonu warmly opened the ceremony, setting a wonderful tone for a night celebrating academic achievement and impactful leadership. Followed by Eleanor Pinugu delivering a powerful keynote address. An alumna of the Locsin Scholarship herself (Class of 2005), Ms. Pinugu is a remarkable force as the co-founder of SheTalksAsia and Mano Amiga Philippines, and a respected columnist for the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Her insights undoubtedly resonated deeply with everyone present.
Leanne Louise Isip (III AB Communication) was recognized as this year's deserving recipient of the Raul L. Locsin Scholarship award.
The Moving Image Commission 2025 Jury: "We are thrilled to announce the selection of Shireen Seno and John Torres (part-time faculty of the Department of Communication) for the third edition of the Han Nefkens Foundation Moving Image Commission, marking them as the first artists from the Philippines to be recognized in this program.
Their proposal, A Cure for Colonial Amnesia, demonstrates their longstanding commitment to world-building through filmmaking, addressing profound themes of labour, memory, and resistance.
This innovative work, which harmonizes sound, archives, and space, invites us to explore how historical reflections are woven into the socio-political landscapes and daily lives of individuals. We are excited to support their journey to uncover and capture the healing and resilience within the complex history of the Philippines. Their unique and earnest perspectives on the everyday experiences of the Filipino people promise to deliver deep insights that will resonate throughout the region.”
On April 8, 2025, the CSP and RLCCS Lecture Series featured Mr. Ivan Man Dy of Old Manila Walks at Ateneo de Manila University. His talk, captivated the
audience with insights into his work in heritage advocacy and cultural tourism.
He shared exciting details about Chinatown (Binondo, Manila) tours, offering ideas for experiencing Chinese culture, festivals, and food. He also highlighted exploration opportunities in nearby Philippine provinces. Ivan also spoke about being a passionate advocate for Art Deco architecture in the country. He mentioned co-authoring a book on Art Deco in the Philippines, highlighting the unique characteristics of the style in Philippine architecture.
From May 13-16, 2025, the Chinese Studies Program (CSP) offered the Ateneo community free tea at their Leong Hall Room 200 office. This initiative, "Got Cha
茶," highlighted tea's calming properties and ability to enhance focus. Many students and faculty from Higher Education and other units participated, bringing their own cups to enjoy various tea blends.
Reading list
Reading list
On April 29, 2025, the Ateneo Chinese Studies Program and Ricardo Leong
Center for Chinese Studies hosted the launch of Franz Lim's, "Working Abroad: A
Guide Based on My Experience," at the Ateneo PLDT-CTC-204. Franz spoke on
his personal journey as an overseas Filipino worker (OFW). His book provides
insights into the cultural challenges and mental preparations he needed for working abroad. Mr. Lim shared his experiences, adventures that included his initial
struggles when he worked as a part-time teacher in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, while
studying Mandarin on the side.
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