Embedded Files
Philippines Studies Portugal
Philippines Studies Portugal
The International Workshop, "Sea of Stories: Waves of Influence and Winds of Change in the Asian-European Nexus" was held in Lisbon, Portugal on 9-10 December 2025 as a channel for exchanges between the social scientists of the Dr. Rosita G. Leong School of Social Sciences of the Ateneo de Manila University and Portuguese social scientists.
Focusing on the historical, cultural, social, scientific, economic, and political connections between the Pacific and Atlantic regions and acknowledging that storytelling is becoming a popular tool for knowledge exchange, the workshop brought out not only the shared historical narratives and cultural traditions of Europe, Portugal, and the Philippines, but also their divergent trajectories.
The workshop was organized by Dr. Stephanie Coo [Associate Professor (on leave), Department of History, Ateneo de Manila] and made possible with the support of the Center for Humanities of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities of Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Foundation for Science and Technology, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs through the Philippine Embassy in Portugal, and the Ateneo de Manila University's Higher Education Internationalization Grants Program.
Held at the Biblioteca Palácio Galveias (9 December 2025) and Biblioteca Nacional de Portugal (10 December 2025), the workshop opened with ten book presentations by Portuguese and Filipino scholars. These included the books of Dr. Czarina Saloma-Akpedonu (New Consumers in the Global South: No Longer Poor, Not Yet Middle Class, De Gruyter, 2026), Ms. Karina Garilao, and Dr. Katherine Lacson (eds. Barako 77: The Story of Environmental Activism in San Juan, Batangas (Batangas: Barako Publishing, 2024), Dr. Stephanie Marie Coo (Seams of Sedition: Sartorial Symbols in José Rizal’s Noli Me Tángere (Quezon City: Ateneo de Naga University Press, 2025), and Dr. Patricia Irene Dacudao, Abaca Frontier: The Socioeconomic and Cultural Transformation of Davao, 1898-1941 (Quezon City: Ateneo de Manila University Press, 2023) were the authors from Ateneo de Manila.
Day 2 featured twelve paper presentations. The Ateneo de Manila presenters were Dr. Stephanie Marie Coo (Detours, Destinations, and Displacements: Case Studies of the Transimperial Circulation of Philippine Crafts to European Backrooms), Dr. Patricia Irene Dacudao (1931 Goodwill Trip: Comparing Philippine agriculture with its neighbors in Southeast Asia). Dr. Geoffrey Ducanes (Untangling the Puzzle of Anemic Inter-Country Trade, Investment, and Labour Migration between the Philippines and Portugal), Dr. Manuel Enverga III (European Digital Diplomacy and the Sino-Philippine Territorial Disputes in the South China Sea), Dr. Olivia Anne Habana [Colonial Education in the Spanish Philippines and Portuguese Goa (16th-19th Centuries)], Dr. Katherine Lacson [The Tangible Past: Sensory Ethnography in American Women’s Travel Journals to the Philippines (1898-1941)], Dr. Diana Mendoza (The Politics of Reproductive Rights in Catholic Democracies: Examining Women’s Agency and Resistance in the Philippines and Timor-Leste), Dr. Cristina Montiel (European Contributions to Democratization in the Philippines), Dr. Czarina Saloma-Akpedonu (Non-traditional International Student Mobilities, African Student Navigations, and Educational Choices in Philippine Universities), and Dr. Jane Yugioksing (Bridging Worlds: How Macao Connected Portugal with the Philippines).
One of the keynote speakers was Portuguese Philippinist, Prof. Dr. Armando Marques Guedes from the School of Law, Universidade Nova de Lisboa). His H.E. Paul Raymund P. Cortes, the Ambassador of the Philippines to Portugal and himself a product of Ateneo de Manila University, gave the workshop closing remarks and hosted a dinner at his Residence.
The workshop was also an occasion to renew the 2008 Exchange Agreement between the Ateneo de Manila University and Universidade NOVA de Lisboa.
On November 20, 2025, the Department of Political Science and Ateneo Global hosted a historic lecture by HE Dr. Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine, as part of the EmbLEM Series. Accompanied by HE Ambassador Mounir YK Anastas, Dr. Shahin addressed the Ateneo community on the history of the conflict, emphasizing its territorial and humanitarian nature while questioning the efficacy of international law regarding continued occupation.
This significant event marked the first visit of a Palestinian foreign minister to Manila, coinciding with the strengthening of bilateral ties between the Philippines and Palestine. Following a lively open forum moderated by Political Science Chairperson Dr. Ma. Lourdes Veneracion, the guests were presented with tokens of appreciation by Dean Czarina Saloma-Akpedonu and VP for Mission Integration Dr. Benjamin Tolosa Jr. The program concluded with Dr. Tolosa delivering a message on behalf of University President Fr. Roberto C. Yap SJ, affirming Ateneo's solidarity with the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination.
Tagpuan Ateneo is a scholarly, training, and practice center for dialogues and collaborations of the Ateneo de Manila University. As a center, Tagpuan fosters a culture of dialogue in action through finding common ground and building common good—utilizing the tools of transdisciplinary research, teaching, person formation, and societal engagement.
𝙎𝙖𝙡𝙪𝙗𝙤𝙣𝙜 is a project that reimagines ways towards bridging divides in the Catholic Church when it comes to the tensions brought about by matters of gender, sexuality, and faith. Using an approach influenced by synodality and participatory action research, the project aims to center on the narratives of the LGBTQI+ participants while fostering a space of listening and dialogue with church leaders.
Fellows Karizza P. Bravo-Sotelo, PhD, Awais Rubbani, Mohammad Azim Arbabi, Shafinur Nahar, and Silas Emovwodo successfully encouraged a fruitful dialogue through 𝗧𝗔𝗬𝗢: 𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗽𝘂𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗱𝗵𝗶𝗸𝗮𝗶𝗻, 𝗬𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝗽𝗶𝗻𝘆𝗼𝗻, proving that differences can be a source of strength rather than conflict.
People of different faiths and diverse backgrounds can still come together and engage in meaningful dialogue when united by a shared purpose.
Part of the goal of Tagpuan Ateneo’s Research Conversations is to shed light on cultural and environmental divides. 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗛.𝗨.𝗡.𝗧.𝗔., headed by Nathaniel John A. Nuñez, aims to do this by examining the significance of the Malaquing Tubig River through the lens of Local Narratives.
By understanding these stories, environmental issues become more personified, leading to more active awareness, involvement, and continuous dialogue on river conservation.
Divides can be present not only in our communities but also within families. 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗦 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗦 aims to holistically understand parental rejection directed at LGBTQIA+ children and its effects on the parent–child relationship.
The ultimate goal of this research is to transform rejection into acceptance and support. Fellows Eileen F. Tupaz and Abigail V. Rivadelo shared their insightful findings and facilitated an exercise that helped participants realize how far acceptance can go in shaping LGBTQIA+ realities.
𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲'𝘀 𝗛𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝘂𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮 provides a space for the community to tell their story of how they have continuously persevered despite the challenges they have faced amid the rapid pace of urbanization and globalization.
Fellows Beatriz C. Beato, Francis Sollano, and Gino Antonio P. Trinidad shine a light on the community’s struggles and resilience in their three-decade-long effort to secure tenure and assert their rights.
Addressing the deepening crisis of Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) in the Bangsamoro region, the Tagpuan Ateneo Center for Dialogue, Research, and Collaboration presented a strategic policy reform paper to the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) on October 9, 2025. The study identified critical hurdles—including conflict-driven displacement, climate change, and fragmented government investment—that keep childcare inaccessible to thousands of children.
To bridge these gaps, researchers recommended a "whole-of-government" ecosystem involving strategic governance restructuring and stronger collaboration between national and regional bodies. This policy push is the result of a partnership with the MSSD-BARMM, The Asia Foundation, and the Australian Government, utilizing a dialogue-based approach to ensure inclusive development for Bangsamoro children.
SOSS Faculty Accolade: Dr. Hiroko Nagai
SOSS Faculty Accolade: Dr. Hiroko Nagai
The Dr. Rosita G. Leong School of Social Sciences warmly congratulates Dr. Hiroko Nagai, Professor and former Director of the Japanese Studies Program, on receiving the prestigious Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation. In a ceremony hosted on November 3, 2025, Ambassador Endo Kazuya honored Dr. Nagai for her outstanding contributions to promoting Japanese Studies and deepening the cultural understanding between Japan and the Philippines. The Ambassador praised her dual role as a dedicated scholar and a master koto musician in strengthening the bilateral bond as both nations approach their 70th Anniversary of Friendship. Omedetou gozaimasu, Dr. Nagai!
5 th Learning Circle: Basic Feng Shui in our Workspaces
5 th Learning Circle: Basic Feng Shui in our Workspaces
On September 20, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM, the RGLSOSS Office of the Dean, in collaboration with the RGLSOSS Coordinator for Teaching and Learning, hosted the 5 th Learning Circle, “Basic Feng Shui in our Workspaces”, at the Chinese Studies Conference Room.
The session, facilitated by Jarred Chiang, explored how simple Feng Shui principles can help create a more balanced, productive, and supportive work environment. Jarred introduced attendees to key concepts such as energy flow, desk and furniture positioning, effective use of natural elements, and the impact of clutter on focus and well-being.
Through practical examples and open discussions, Jarred guided attendees in assessing their own workspaces to identify small and realistic changes they could apply. These changes included improving lighting, incorporating plants, and rethinking the positioning of desks or tables to enhance workflow.
By the end of the session, attendees left with actionable ideas to create workspaces that encourage balance, efficiency, and overall success. For inspiration, please see the picture of Mara’s workspace, which shows the application of Feng Shui principles discussed during the session.
Psychology Department’s Homecoming Celebration Dinner
Psychology Department’s Homecoming Celebration Dinner
As the Department of Psychology marks its 65th year, it held its inaugural homecoming celebration, “Full Psycle: A Celebration of Connection, Continuity, and Community”, on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Singson Hall.
The celebration began with a Holy Mass presided by Fr. Erwin “Bok” F. Arandia, SJ, a BS Psychology graduate from Batch 2005. This meaningful opening was followed by a community dance led by Psyche, which set a joyful and festive tone for the rest of the gathering.
Throughout the program, alumni enjoyed a series of engaging activities and contests that invited them to revisit core psychology concepts, rediscover nostalgic campus landmarks and remember with gratitude the life and legacy of the department’s beloved founder, Fr. Jaime Bulatao, SJ.
True to its theme, “Full Psycle” provided a warm and heartfelt space for alumni to reconnect with old friends and former teachers. Together, they reminisced about their shared experiences and celebrated the paths they have taken since graduation. This first homecoming not only honored 65 years of the department’s history but also strengthened the sense of community that continues to unite generations of Psychology graduates - bringing the Psychology community full circle.
The Department of Psychology recognized the achievements of the newly licensed psychologists and psychometricians last October 17, 2025 at CTC413-414 for dinner. Ateneo de Manila University has remained the top performing school for psychologists and psychometricians for the fifth straight year, with our 32 new psychologists and 124 new psychometricians. Our psychologist topnotchers are Queenie Co Chua (Top 2) and Jebbie Brigitte Tordecilla Tomas (Top 10).
We also celebrate our psychometrician topnotchers Nadine Rae Plazuela (AB PSY ‘25) as Top 6, Maria Ysabela Marquez (BS PSY ‘25) and Arabela Roanne Pepito (BS PSY ‘25) as Top 9, and Bianca Cristine Tadeo (BS PSY ‘23) as Top 10. The dinner celebration honored the hard work and grit not only of the newly minted professionals, but also celebrated the faculty and staff who have served as anchors and guideposts throughout the students' journeys.
Season's Greetings!
Season's Greetings!
In case you missed it
In case you missed it
Ateneo Economics & MusikaPilipinas Examine the Pulse of the Music Industry
On November 9, Ateneo Economics and MusikaPilipinas convened a special session at the 20th EAEA to deliver a data-driven analysis of the Philippine music economy. Researchers presented updated estimates on the industry’s financial value and new data on Filipino listening habits, while highlighting the income challenges musicians continue to face in the post-pandemic landscape.
The dialogue was bolstered by inputs from the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines and the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry – Southeast Asia. These organizations emphasized persistent hurdles in piracy, IP protection, and digital revenue sharing. The session concluded that strengthening the country's music ecosystem relies heavily on improved policy, robust data, and cross-sector collaboration. The post-event report can be accessed here.
The Ateneo Korean Studies Program, under the Dr. Rosita G. Leong School of Social Sciences, successfully hosted the 10th TOPIK IBT on November 29, 2025, at the Rizal Library. As the exclusive testing center in the Philippines authorized by the NIIED, Ateneo administered the globally recognized assessment with critical technical support from the Office of the Vice President for Digital Information and Technology Services (OVP-DITS).
The test evaluates Korean language proficiency for education and employment, drawing examinees from across the nation. Results from this successful administration will be available on the official TOPIK website on December 19, 2025.
Building on her expert role in validating the Competency Assessment Tool (CAT) for Korean Language A1 Level, Ateneo Korean Studies Program Director Ms. Aurea Javier met with TESDA-NLSC Supervising TESD Specialist Mr. Renan Gonzales on November 27, 2025, to discuss the next steps in their partnership.
This collaboration aims to contextualize and strengthen the quality of Korean language education provided by the National Language Skills Center. The initiative reaffirms the program's commitment to supporting TESDA in developing globally competitive skills among Filipino learners.
The Ateneo Initiative for Southeast Asian Studies (AISEAS), in collaboration with the Ricardo Leong Institute for Global and Area Studies, hosted the Philippines-Vietnam Forum and Exhibit on November 19, 2025, at the Leong Hall Auditorium and Foyer. Serving as the culmination of the SEAS 101 In-Country Field Study, the forum explored Vietnam's transformation with panelists H.E. Dr. Lai Thai Binh, Dir. Anna Marie C. Santos, and SOSS Dean Dr. Czarina Saloma-Akpedonu.
The accompanying exhibit, themed "HARMONY IN CHAOS," featured student projects that reflected on lessons learned in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh regarding growth, consumption, and shared cultural experiences.
In collaboration with the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) and UP OVPDx, the Institute of Philippine Culture invites healthcare and public health professionals to enroll in the Stronger Health Systems: Fundamentals of Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Micro-credential Course. Hosted on the UPOU ASCEND platform, this fully online program runs from December 18 to 31, 2025.
The course is designed to equip participants with foundational competencies in chronic disease prevention, lifestyle risk mitigation, and evidence-informed health practices. It is co-developed with the MICROCASA Project, an EU Erasmus+ multinational initiative aimed at modernizing higher education through transparent, competency-based micro-credentials. By participating, allied health workers can enhance their skills to build more responsive and resilient health systems. Registration is now open at url.upou.edu.ph/MIH01-EnrollmentForm.
On the horizon
On the horizon
Reading List
Reading List
Making Your Holidays Happy | Wellness Wednesdays: Brought to you by RenewHealth Organization
Episode: S1 EP 16: Making Your Holidays Happy, Hosted by Dr. Gina Hechanova-Alampay and Ms. Trixia Co
Vincent Carlo L. Legara is a lecturer at the European Studies Program and the Department of Political Science of the Ateneo de Manila University. He is also a junior political risk and security analyst at Polysentry.
In Memoriam
In Memoriam
Dr. Queena Lee-Chua, Professor, taught and served in the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Psychology from 1987 to 2025.
She was a proponent of problem solving in mathematics from the basic education to college levels, a mental health advocate, a good listener, columnist, writer, and an outstanding teacher with a larger-than-life presence both inside and outside the classroom.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband Smith and son Scott.
Eternal rest grant unto Queena, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her.
May her soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen.
Page updated
Report abuse