Five new works. One community defined by Virtus et Scientia.
The University of San Agustin celebrated Veritas: An Augustinian Book Launch at the Learning Commons, Ground Floor of the Fray Luis De Leon Building on April 13, 2026 — a joyful gathering of the Augustinian community in honor of five remarkable new works. The program opened with a doxology, the National Anthem, and the University Hymn, beautifully rendered by the USA Choir and Troubadours. Dr. Pinky Jasmin Poral, Academic Supervisor for Languages, Humanities, and Literature, set the tone in her welcome remarks, reflecting on how knowledge, when pursued with purpose, has the power to enlighten minds, inspire meaningful dialogue, and move society toward the good. Prof. Isidoro M. Cruz, Ph.D., provided the program overview, aptly invoking Luke 8:16 — that no one lights a lamp only to hide it — a fitting reminder that every work launched that morning was written to illuminate. University President Rev. Fr. Arnel S. Dizon, OSA, deepened this vision in his opening remarks, anchoring the celebration in the University’s enduring spirit of Virtus et Scientia. The first part of the program featured works of faith and personal witness, beginning with My Two Families: An Autobiography by Rev. Fr. Mamerto A. Alfeche, OSA, who offered the audience a glimpse into how the book came about — born during the pandemic and now released in an expanded edition. Ms. Arly Deiparine, Assistant Project Coordinator of the Santo Niño de Cebu Publishing House, then formally presented the symbolic first copy to Fr. Alfeche. This was followed by a presentation of two other Augustinian books by Fr. John Ion C. Miranda, OSA, Executive Director of the Philippine Augustinian Development Office. Recorded messages were aired from the Prior Provincial, Very Rev. Fr. Andrew P. Batayola, OSA, and from the authors themselves — Prof. Joseph T. Kelly, whose A Primer on Augustinian Spirituality offers an accessible entry into the Augustinian charism, and Fr. Arturo Purcaro, OSA, author of Building a Better World: A Contemporary Augustinian Perspective. A moving reading of excerpts from all three books was delivered by Tricia S. Aguirre, External Marketing Officer.
The second part of the program turned to the law, where two Augustinian alumni and faculty members presented works of lasting professional value published by Rex Bookstore: Atty. Eduardo T. Reyes III launched the Comprehensive Reviewer on Persons and Family Relations with Comments and Latest Case Law (2026 Edition), while Atty. Joenar Pueblo introduced Arbitration Abyan, a definitive guide to the arbitration rules of major dispute resolution bodies in the Philippines. What made Veritas more than a book launch was the presence of the community itself — administrators, faculty, legal professionals, religious, family, and friends gathered under one roof to honor work done in service of truth. Mary Anne D. Aurelio, Director of the PEAR Office, delivered the closing remarks, and Prof. Noel G. De Leon, Secretary of the National Committee on Literary Arts of the NCCA, served as Master of Ceremonies. In the tradition of Virtus et Scientia, these Augustinian authors have written not merely for readers but for the world — and the world is richer for it.
#SDG4 QualityEducation
#SDG10 ReducedInequalities
#SDG16 PeaceJusticeAndStrongInstitutions
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