In response to the complex challenges of our time, Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) hosted a Pakighinabi on “3Ps, 3Ds, 3Ls: A Framework for ADDU Mission” on 15 November 2023, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM, at the Calungsod-San Vitores Jesuit-Lay Collaboration Center, 11/F of the Community Center of the First Companions, Jacinto Campus.
The imperative for deep reflection, discernment, and comprehensive leadership in today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) global landscape set the stage for this conversation. The framework, encapsulated in 3Ps (Post-truth, Populism, Polarization), 3Ds (Discernment, Dialogue, Democracy), and 3Ls (Love, Listen, Lead), seeks to guide the Ateneo community in navigating the complexities of the modern world.
Fr. Karel S. San Juan, SJ, President of ADDU, delivered a keynote address on the theme. He emphasized the need for discerning leadership, which goes beyond decision-making and involves a keen sense of timing, effective communication, and a passionate commitment to core values.
The dialogue acknowledged the challenges of our present context, including post-truth narratives, the rise of populism, and societal polarization. Aligning with recent pronouncements from the Catholic Church, the framework advocates for responsible leadership, love as a guiding principle, and a receptive ear in the face of these challenges.
The event featured exchanges with panelists from various University sectors, including members of research, instruction, engagement, formation, and administration. Some key takeaways and responses to calls for action were also given by representatives from the student government, the College Faculty Club, and the NTP Union.
The Pakighinabi aimed at three main objectives: nurturing discerning leadership skills, fostering constructive dialogue on pressing challenges, and inspiring synodal formation and graceful collaboration within the ADDU community.
While this framework addresses the challenges of our time with discernment, democracy, dialogue, and, above all, love, Fr. San Juan highlighted that it is merely “a” framework and not “the” framework imposed on the university. He called for greater participation of the University community in discerning and creating our preferred futures.
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