On behalf of Saint Louis University (SLU) President Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, Prof. Joselito C. Gutierrez, PhD, the Executive Assistant to the President, attended the National Conference of the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities (PACU) from 20-21 March 2026 at St. Paul University Philippines, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.
The conference, themed “Universities at the Crossroads: Innovating Sustainable Futures,” brought together officials from various universities in the nation to discuss how higher education’s role in sustainability is evolving. Through this opportunity, Dr. Gutierrez discussed SLU’s sustainability initiatives, emphasizing culture, community, and environmental stewardship as part of Fr. Sales’s programs on SDG.
Throughout his speech, Dr. Gutierrez made it abundantly evident that SLU’s dedication to institutional sustainability extends beyond merely fulfilling legal requirements or accreditation standards. Instead, with Fr. Sales in charge and his leadership motto Missio et Excellentia guiding the way, SLU’s sustainability initiatives are deeply ingrained in its CICM heritage, institutional mission, and Catholic principles. These initiatives aim to support student achievement, enhance school culture, foster community ties, and safeguard the environment. For SLU, these programs are crucial for producing individuals who are capable, creative, compassionate, and Christian-spirited.
Dr. Gutierrez emphasized that SLU’s goal, which is to assist individuals in developing in all spheres of their lives—academically, spiritually, and socially— is very similar to what the Church teaches. According to him, Catholic social teaching and the desire to do good for everyone serve as the foundation for the university’s approach to environmental conservation and community involvement. He highlighted how SLU actively seeks collaborations that are advantageous to the school and the community at large, promoting meaningful lives for students and other stakeholders by integrating sustainability into all academic and operational activities.
Lastly, Dr. Gutierrez stated that Fr. Sales’s leadership motto, Missio et Excellentia, and the message of CICM Founder Father Theophile Verbist—that Louisians were given a good and beautiful mission—make up the foundation for the drive to enhance SLU’s sustainability initiatives. He informed the audience that it is their duty as Louisians to use their gifts from God to further the welfare of others. By taking care of students, the community, and the environment, SLU fulfills its mission. This reflects the SLU way of achieving greatness and serving others.
This involvement is aligned with the 17 SDGs and CICM Advocacies on Justice and Dialogue. (Article and Photos by J. Gutierrez)
