The University of San Agustin (USA), through its International Relations Office (IRO), in partnership with the USA Student Government (USASG), formally opened its UN Month Exhibit on Monday, 19 October 2026, at the Pope Leo XIV Hall Lobby, bringing the ideals of the United Nations closer to the Augustinian community.
Carrying the theme “UNITED IN CARITAS: The United Nations, the Philippines, and the University of San Agustin: A Shared Commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals,” the exhibit highlights the enduring importance of international cooperation, multilateralism, peace, justice, and collective action in addressing pressing global challenges.
The opening ceremony brought together members of the University administration, faculty, personnel, and students. The ceremony was also graced by Fray Stephen Tan, OSA, a former member of the University of San Agustin community who is currently assigned to the Generalate of the Order of Saint Augustine in Rome, Italy.
The exhibit features the history and evolution of the United Nations, its principal organs and specialized programmes, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Philippines’ participation in the multilateral organization. It also highlights the University’s own efforts and initiatives in advancing the SDGs, underscoring how higher education institutions can contribute to the realization of the global development agenda through education, research, institutional initiatives, and community engagement. In doing so, the exhibit emphasizes the relevance of the United Nations’ work in the Philippines and the importance of active global citizenship in building a more peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable world.
The initiative forms part of the University’s observance of United Nations Day on 24 October, commemorating the 81st anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945.
For Assistant Professor John Paul P. Mondejar, Director of the International Relations Office, the exhibit represents an opportunity to connect the University’s internationalization agenda with the broader responsibilities of the global community.
“Internationalization is not simply about establishing partnerships or creating opportunities for mobility across borders. It is also about developing a deeper understanding of the world and recognizing our shared responsibility toward humanity. Through this exhibit, we hope that our students and the wider Augustinian community will appreciate that the ideals of the United Nations are not distant or abstract aspirations; they are values that we can embody and advance through our own actions, guided by Caritas and our commitment to the common good,” Director Mondejar said.
Beyond presenting information about the United Nations, the exhibit reflects the University’s commitment to internationalization and its responsibility to cultivate globally aware, socially responsive, and compassionate Augustinians. Anchored in the Augustinian value of Caritas, or love, the initiative recognizes that meaningful global engagement begins with a commitment to the dignity of every human person, solidarity with others, and service to the common good.
Through this initiative, the University seeks to demonstrate that the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals is not solely the responsibility of governments and international organizations. Educational institutions and local communities likewise have an essential role in translating global aspirations into meaningful action.
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