Tagaytay City—The SVD Laudato Si' Farm and De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) formalized a partnership last February 20, 2024, setting into place the upcoming internship program between the two institutions.
During the ceremony held at the Prayer Hall of the SVD Farm's Ecospirituality Center, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the SVD Farm and DLSL were signed by representatives from the respective institutions.
The event began with the opening prayer led by Rev. Fr. Ricardo Crisostomo, Jr., SVD, General Manager of the SVD Farm.
Afterwards, an overview message was delivered by Dean Evangeline Necio from the College of International Hospitality and Tourism Management of DLSL. In her message, Dean Evangeline lauded the "powerful collaboration and partnership between these two venerable and beautiful institutions."
Rev. Fr. Samuel "Sam" Naceno-Agcaracar, SVD, Executive Director of the SVD Farm and Rector of the SVD Tagaytay Community, referred to the partnership as a "divine encounter" and an occasion of "providence." He also expressed his hope that the collaboration would be mutually beneficial for both institutions, with a focus on promoting awareness of the importance of farming and environmental concerns among the youth.
"Let us raise children who can name plants and animals, not celebrities and brands," said Fr. Sam.
Afterwards, in his response to Fr. Sam's message, Br. Edmundo L. Fernandez FSC, President of DLSL, highlighted how the partnership exemplifies collaboration between "the industry and the academe" for the formation of students.
Br. Edmundo also emphasized the importance of industry and academia working together to ensure that students are well-prepared and easily employable upon graduation. He conveyed gratitude for the partnership and expressed hope for its fruitful outcome.
Finally, the formal signing ceremony included representatives from both institutions, including Fr. Sam and Dr. Rose, representing the SVD Farm and Br. Edmundo and Dr. Iezyl Torino, Vice Chancellor for Academics, representing DLSL.
Afterwards, the exchange of gifts saw the SVD Farm presenting DLSL with a basket of freshly harvested vegetables, symbolizing the fruitful collaboration ahead.
Dr. Rose Marie concluded the event with closing remarks, drawing a parallel between the Lasallian and St. Arnold Janssen’s prayers, emphasizing the commonality in the spirituality of the respective founders. She expressed confidence that the relationship between the two institutions would bear much fruit as they pursue their mission of caring for Mother Earth.
Dr. Rose looked forward to a "fruitful and green partnership," noting the shared faith, love for Jesus, and commitment to sustainability and Earth's wellbeing that bind the institutions together.
After the signing ceremony, the guests convened at the Dining Hall of the Ecospirituality Center for a simple breakfast.
