By: Alvin P. Gallo
Don Bosco Retreat House, Lawaan – January 29, 2025. The much-awaited 1st AB REED and PASCOM Alumni Homecoming brought together 13 batches of alumni since the program’s inception in 2008. Held at the Don Bosco Retreat House in Lawaan, Talisay City, Cebu, the event served as a meaningful reunion filled with reflection, camaraderie, and a renewed commitment to Christian education.
A Message of Hope: Fr. Mel Racelis, SDB, Inspires Alumni
The homecoming began with an enlightening talk by Fr. Mel Racelis, SDB, the Provincial Vicar, who explored the 2025 Strenna theme: “Anchored in Hope, Pilgrims with Young People.” He emphasized that true hope is rooted in Christ, highlighting that one of the signs of hope can be found among the sick and suffering. Drawing from Scripture, he reminded the alumni:
“Suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope. This virtue of hope needs support, and this support is the virtue of patience. The virtue of patience is the daughter of hope.”
Fr. Mel urged everyone to cultivate patience in order to truly live in hope, especially in their fields of education and ministry.
Strengthening Bonds Through Fellowship
Following the talk, alumni engaged in a heartfelt exchange of experiences, reconnecting over snacks and lunch. The morning session concluded with a Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Fidel Orendain, SDB, the Provincial Superior of the FIS Province. In his concluding remarks, he underscored the growth and transformation of the alumni, stating:
“Each one has the possibility to bloom in their respective areas, time, and pace. While many of us are educators, we often wonder why some students seem not to learn despite our efforts. But we must remember—there is growth, though not yet visible…
We are proud of who you are and what you have become. Continue to do more and be more as educators of the faith.”
The Mass was concelebrated by:
- Fr. Erwin Joey Cabilan, SDB – Program Head of AB REED and PASCOM (Homilist)
- Fr. Randy Figuracion, SDB – President and Rector of Don Bosco Technical College – Cebu
- Fr. Roneldo Vilbar, SDB – Novice Master
In his homily, Fr. Erwin encouraged alumni to keep living the dream and remain hopeful despite the challenges of educating in faith, firmly anchored in Christ and the legacy of St. John Bosco. Reflecting on Don Bosco’s pedagogy and Jesus’ teaching in the Gospel reading of the day (Mark 4:1-20, the Parable of the Sower), he emphasized how Jesus taught not from a mountain but from the sea, adapting to His audience. This, he explained, reflects Don Bosco’s approach—meeting young people where they are and nurturing their growth at their own pace.
Also in attendance was Bro. George Celis, SDB, a beloved faculty member from the alumni’s college years.
An Afternoon of Laughter and Future Plans
The afternoon session was filled with joy and laughter as alumni participated in more sharing activities and an exciting “Getting to Know You” session, joined by Fr. Erwin. The highlight of the event was the election of alumni officers, who will lead future gatherings and strengthen alumni relations. The newly elected officers are:
- President: Alvin Gallo (Batch 2015)
- Vice President: CJ Cabunilas (Batch 2024)
- Secretary: Hanna Nina Bentain (Batch 2015)
- Treasurer: Davon Jhay Tidoy (Batch 2014)
- Auditor: Sr. Prian Nizza I. Jo, SASMP (Batch 2020)
Following the elections, an evaluation of the homecoming was conducted, leading to a productive planning session for the next alumni gathering.
The 1st AB REED and PASCOM Alumni Homecoming was a resounding success, uniting past graduates in their shared mission of faith and education. As they parted ways, the alumni carried with them renewed hope and strengthened bonds, looking forward to the next reunion and their continued journey as pilgrims of hope for the young.