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Day 1 began with a Eucharistic celebration presided by Rev. Fr. Jessie M. Hechanova, CICM, PhD who highlighted the importance of leadership during chaotic and uncertain times. In his homily, he said, “Corruption will only stop if people are incorruptible,” encouraging student leaders to be indomitable and courageous while reminding everyone to always walk with the Lord.
Representing the SLU President, Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, Executive Assistant to the President of SLU, Joselito C. Gutierrez, PhD delivered a message of encouragement emphasizing the vital role of CICM missionary student leaders in confronting brokenness, silence, and despair, promoting lives marked by peace instead of violence. Succeeding the message was an orientation on the House Rules led by Bro. Jonnel Dalimag, CICM, who shared the journey of CICM Founder Fr. Theophile Verbist as well as the history of the CICM Institute and Home Sweet Home. He emphasized three leadership principles: always see the positive side of things, be pioneering, and know your people.
The second half of the day began with a discussion by Fr. Thadeu Enrique N. Balongag titled “On Catholic Identity as Student Leaders in CICM Schools Called to Mission and Excellence.” During his talk, Fr. Balongag encouraged the CICM Student Leaders to step out of their comfort zones and seek new paths to becoming agents of change. “Hope is where human goodness lies,” he said, stressing the importance of becoming a hope for others.
The CICM Student Leader Convergence program ran until 09 October 2025, where the second day began with a morning assembly followed by a tour led by Bro. Jonnel Dalimag. The itinerary included visiting Maryhurst, the CICM Memorial Cemetery where delegates laid flowers during a prayer service; the Baguio Cathedral of Our Lady of Atonement, and the SLU Museum of Igorot Cultures & Arts.
The afternoon sessions featured a workshop titled “Why Should You Care? (Workshop on Social Justice vis-à-vis the Cases of Corruption)” followed by a sharing session led by Hon. Benjamin B. Magalong on “Leadership of Good Governance and Integrity: Challenges to the Young.”
The CICM Student Leader Convergence 2025 served as a platform to strengthen the united bond formed through the collaboration and experiences shared by CICM student leaders. The event’s goals are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and 17 (Partnership for the Goals). It also affirms the CICM advocacy on Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation and the CEAP JEEPGY values on Youth Empowerment and Engaged Citizenship. (Article by: Clark Justin Alenso, UIO Intern | Photos by: Rennalyn Charmie Tajon, UIO Intern)
