On 06 March 2026, the New Louisian Philosophical Society (NEOLOUPHIS) of the Department of Philosophy, School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA) conducted the first session of its talks, The Wise Corner, with the theme “Wisdom Shared, Lives Inspired: Journeys in Philosophy, Leadership, and Service ” held at AVR, Room V302, Msgr. Charles Vath Building, Saint Louis University (SLU) Main Campus.
The event opened with the first speaker, Prof. Brandon C. Cadingpal, who reflected on his journey as a philosophy undergraduate and how his experiences then shaped his approach to research. He emphasized that philosophy students, as champions of the humanities, must be at the forefront of research, seeking and defending truth amid the contemporary society characterized by commodification of information. He reminded everyone how failure is an inevitable part of research and urges persistence and humility, furthering how every contribution to the body of knowledge remains open to refinement.
For the next plenary session, Prof. Donnel B. Manangdang underscored how leadership resides within everyone and must be continuously cultivated to create meaningful contributions to our societies. He described true leadership as being grounded in integrity, reasoned judgement, accountability, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. To conclude, he urged the attendees to lead by example and be an individual worthy of emulation.
For the last session, Prof. Labrador A. Cobcobo focused on the value of community service. He encouraged students to act selflessly and to be other-centered, furthering how great leaders must also learn to be good followers. He stressed that service is ultimately about lifting the lives of others and fostering collective progress.
Together, these talks displayed the enduring relevance of philosophy in shaping lives of purpose and service. They are a testament that wisdom is not merely knowledge, but lived action, inspiring students to embrace philosophy’s persistent role in a world that often prioritizes convenience over truth.
The themes of the event affirm the university’s commitment to uphold and advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, namely, SDG 4, Quality Education, by encouraging rigorous research, persistence, and lifelong learning; SDG 16, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, through the promotion of ethical and servant leadership; and SDG 17, Partnership for the Goals, by highlighting community service, collaboration, and collective advancement. (Article by Nicole Louise Z. Dyquiangco, NEOLOUPHIS | Photos by Manny Boy Jandoc, NEOLOUPHIS)
