THE Mass of the Holy Spirit was celebrated on August 30, 2024 to inaugurate the academic year 2024-2025, coinciding with the installation of Rev. Fr. Arnel S. Dizon, OSA, as the ninth president of the University of San Agustin. The ceremony was attended by members of the Augustinian community, academic leaders, faculty and staff, alumni, students, and invited guests, and was officiated by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew P. Batayola, OSA, Prior Provincial of the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu – Philippines, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees. The Mass, co-celebrated by Augustinian fathers and religious friars, underscored the institution’s deep spiritual foundation.
Following the homily, Rev. Fr. Nestor B. Bandalan, Jr., OSA, Provincial Secretary of the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu – Philippines, formally presented and read the appointment of Fr. Dizon as the new university president. The ceremony proceeded with Fr. Dizon’s Profession of Faith and Oath of Fidelity, witnessed by key figures including Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr., regional director of Commission on Higher Education Region 6, who was represented by Dr. Danebeth G. Narzoles, OIC Assistant Chief, Technical Division; and Dr. Ramir B. Uytico, regional director of Department of Education Region 6, who was represented by Dr. Jude Thaddeus I. Iledan, Chief Education Supervisor, Quality Assurance Division.
A significant symbolic turnover of the presidential medallion and mace took place, representing the official transfer of leadership and responsibilities. This moment was further highlighted by the Sign of Peace exchanged among D. Dizon, Fr. Batayola, and Rev. Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, OSA, the immediate past president.
In his inaugural address, Fr. Dizon expressed heartfelt gratitude and outlined his vision for the university’s future, emphasizing a strong commitment to academic excellence, active community engagement, and the holistic development of students.
The ceremony also included recognition of Fr. Comendador for his dedicated service and contributions to the university. In his message, he expressed his gratitude for the support and hard work of the Augustinian community for facing and overcoming the challenges during his 12 years as the president.
Messages of support and encouragement were also delivered by Rev. Fr. Dante O. Juloc, OSA, Superintendent of Schools of the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu – Philippines. He said the university’s 120 years of being a gift to generations of students have given a sense of history and pride.
“As we move forward to the future with Fr. Dizon’s guidance and leadership, we anticipate brighter years ahead. The USA has sent a very strong foundation that would enable her to explore many possibilities for innovations without losing her core,” Fr. Juloc added.
Fr. Dizon further envisioned a transformative future for the University of San Agustin, focusing on academic excellence, community engagement, holistic transformation, internationalization, self-sustainability, innovation, and adaptive leadership. He aimed to enhance the quality of education, maintain relevance, and promote social responsibility. His vision also emphasized holistic formation, fostering personal growth, character formation, and spiritual development.
He also aimed to improve self-sustainability through balanced strategies and quality assurance frameworks. He advocated for innovation and a collaborative leadership style, aiming to create an inclusive learning environment that prepares students for responsible leadership and societal contributions.
“I call on everyone to take one academic year, one challenge, one step at a time, no matter how formidable the way ahead, and let the process prevails for far greater outcomes. Let the image of the scaffolding be our guide as we aim for greater heights and cascades to the common good. May God bless us, our endeavors, and our dear Alma Mater the University of San Agustin,” Fr. Dizon concluded./PN
