𝐀 𝐒𝐘𝐌𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐈𝐔𝐌 𝐎𝐍 𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄 & 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐒 𝐄𝐕𝐒𝐔-𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐎𝐂 𝐒𝐓𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐅𝐀𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐘
ORMOC CITY, Leyte — February 21, 2026 — A meaningful gathering centered on the value of human dignity, relationships, and social responsibility took place at Eastern Visayas State University — Ormoc Campus (EVSU-OC) as Human Life International, in partnership with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Palo, conducted “A Symposium on Life & Love.”
Held for NSTP and CWTS students and faculty members, the symposium aimed to deepen awareness on issues concerning life, love, family, and moral responsibility in today’s rapidly changing society. The activity also served as an educational platform encouraging young people to reflect on personal values, ethical decision-making, and respect for human life.
The program opened with the singing of the National Anthem, ASEAN Hymn, and EVSU Hymn, followed by welcome remarks delivered by Mary Joy B. Balitonado, NSTP Coordinator. An inspirational message was given by Dr. Maricel A. Gomez, Campus Director of EVSU Ormoc City Campus, who emphasized the importance of guiding students not only academically but also morally and socially.
Dr. Marlon E. Lora, NSTP Director, introduced the guest speakers, highlighting the relevance of the symposium to nation-building through responsible citizenship.
The main lectures were delivered by Dr. Ligaya A. Acosta, Regional Director for Asia and Oceania of Human Life International. Her talks, titled “Unmasking the Gender Ideology” and “Love, Sex and Life,” discussed contemporary social issues, personal responsibility, and the importance of informed choices among the youth.
Closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Guillermo M. Sodomía, after which a solemn Holy Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Rev. Fr. Shenan J. Boquet, MDIV, President of Human Life International, together with Rev. Fr. Erby Lajara, Spiritual Director of HLI Philippines.
University officials, faculty members, and students actively participated throughout the event, reflecting the institution’s commitment to holistic education that nurtures both intellectual competence and character formation.
The symposium concluded with a call for students to become responsible individuals who uphold respect, compassion, and integrity in their personal lives and future professions.
This article supports Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by promoting values formation, ethical awareness, and holistic learning among students.
