06/05/2026
IN PHOTOS | Dignum et Iustum Est
On April 30, 2026, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM, the HCDC Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy program and members of the Mulat organization successfully conducted a meaningful symposium at the 6th Floor Conference Room of Holy Cross of Davao College ( ). With the theme “Dignum et Iustum Est”— which means “It is right and just”— the event gathered students from different programs, faculty members, and guests for an afternoon of deep philosophical reflection and discussion.
The symposium featured two distinguished guest speakers who explored relevant ethical issues. Starting with Atty. Ruel M. Aganap, Jr., who discussed the topic, “Just War Theory and its International Law”. He explained the legal foundations surrounding the concept of just war and also delved into the philosophical view of just war theory. His discussion highlighted how moral reasoning and international law intersect when addressing the justification of war. In the meanwhile, Rev. Fr. Dexter C. Veloso, PhD, a philosophy professor of Holy Cross of Davao College, gave a talk on "Care Ethics and Environmental Justice". He discussed how various people and groups interpret the idea of "peace", emphasizing the role of care, responsibility, and ethical relationships in promoting environmental and social justice.
Both speakers actively engaged with the audience by answering their questions regarding the topics that they both discussed. Their responses further deepened the participants’ understanding of the topics and encouraged critical thinking. There are also some added insights from the panelist, making the event more meaningful.
Following the two main discussions, the event transitioned into a panel discussion. Three professors from Holy Cross of Davao College were invited as panelists: Alexander Abing, MA (Applied Ethics & Theology), Ritche Sermon, MA (Christian Ethics & Morality), and Emmanuel Grumo, MA (Applied & Environmental Ethics). The panelists shared their reflections on the topics, raised critical questions, and offered additional insights that enriched the discourse.
Arman Jay Lorenas, a philosophy intern, was given the opportunity to summarize the symposium's main ideas following the panel discussion. He helped the audience integrate the conversations into a cohesive understanding by giving a concise and insightful synopsis of the subjects and offering his own thoughts.
An awarding ceremony was held to recognize the contributions of the speakers and panelists. During this moment, Noel II Y. Andrada, the Mulat president, also explained the meaning of the plant given to the two distinguished speakers, symbolizing growth, responsibility, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge and justice. The president's final remarks, which expressed gratitude and encouraged further participation in philosophical conversations, brought the event to a close.
Overall, the symposium served as a successful platform for intellectual exchange, fostering deeper awareness of ethical principles and their relevance in today’s global and environmental concerns. | Kim Cervantes, Mulat VP
You may download the raw photos thru this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1E9bl5YWx_8ZMvM56PN6t8Ep52I8etjHK?usp=drive_link