The ALSE OF-LIFE Batch 145 (Ateneo Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship) marked the culmination of its six-month transformative program with a graduation ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain Convention Center, celebrating another milestone in the organization’s growing global footprint. As one of 15 classes conducted worldwide this school year, Batch 145 is the second cohort in Bahrain, reflecting the program’s expanding impact in the region.
A total of 47 students successfully completed the course, culminating in the presentation of 10 Social Innovation Business Plans that showcased strategic thinking, servant leadership, and a strong commitment to sustainable community development.
Distinguished Guests and Messages of Support
The ceremony was graced by His Excellency Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga, along with Labor Attaché of the Migrant Workers Office Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc, OWWA Welfare Officer Ms. Juvilyn B. Gumabay, Attaché Mr. Jeymar Cabrera, ALSE MENA Coordinator Ms. Mona Pablo, and distinguished panelists Mr. Erwin Ereno and Ms. Marissa Villanueva.
In his address, Ambassador Gallaga emphasized the need to transition from a traditional pyramid-type organization toward a circular structure, where all individuals and teams function as part of one unified whole. He highlighted the importance of fostering innovation, agility, and adaptability in today’s rapidly changing environment, encouraging graduates to embrace collaborative leadership and shared responsibility.
Following his remarks, the organizers expressed sincere appreciation to Dr. Jennifer Santiago Oreta, Dean of the Ateneo School of Government, for attending the ceremony and affirming the value of the partnership. An inspiring recorded message from ALSE Program Coordinator Sir Ed Valenzuela further motivated graduates to continue their leadership journey.
Student Reflections: Growth Through Challenges
Ms. Ferwinda Tan, Managing Director of Angel Tan Design Co., shared the challenge she faced during the course:
“One challenge I encountered during the course was managing the volume of tasks in my company. At times, balancing deadlines, readings, and project requirements felt overwhelming. To overcome this, I adopted a more structured approach to time management. I created a schedule and prioritized activities based on urgency and impact. I also actively participated in discussions and sought clarification early, which helped me avoid last-minute pressure. This experience strengthened my discipline and improved my workflow.”
Meanwhile, Ar. Ramon Angel, Principal Architect of Amiri Engineering, reflected on the values he practices daily:
“In my daily life, I consistently practice the core ALSE values by choosing integrity in my decisions, empathy in my interactions, and accountability in my commitments. I strive to lead with purpose, communicate with respect, and remain open to continuous learning.”
Community Impact and Vision Forward
Rosemarie Hernandez, President of the Filipino Club Bahrain and a member of the Secretariat, emphasized the broader impact of the program, stating that ALSE graduates can help overseas Filipino communities by becoming servant leaders, social entrepreneurs, and advocates of financial literacy and reintegration programs.
She noted that their strength lies not only in helping individuals, but in designing sustainable systems that empower the entire Filipino community in Bahrain, as well as their respective local communities back home.
Batch 145 was led by Ms. Teresita Corral, Lead Coordinator, whose leadership helped steer the cohort toward a successful and meaningful completion of the program.
According to ALSE Bahrain Adviser Mr. Renne Subido, the program’s implementation was professionally carried out by a highly motivated Secretariat, yielding optimum results in developing students’ leadership skills and financial literacy.
“We can now see leadership skills and knowledge in financial literacy, together with lessons on social entrepreneurship emphasizing people, planet, and profit, all helpful in community and livelihood building,” he noted.
Mr. Renne Subido played a pivotal role in introducing ALSE to the Bahrain community, together with Mr. Edgardo Valenzuela and Ms. Cristina Liamson, Program Coordinators of ALSE OF-LIFE. Their collaborative efforts helped establish the program locally, ensuring that participants in Bahrain could access the same values-driven leadership and social entrepreneurship training offered worldwide.
Stories of Inspiration
Among the graduates was Lydia Sinocruz, 50, a cancer survivor and former Citibanker in the Kingdom of Bahrain, originally from the province of Magdalena, Laguna, whose story proved deeply inspiring to everyone
In an interview, she shared that the ALSE program gave her a deeper understanding of personal values and strengthened her character, shaping her outlook on leadership, humility, and resilience.
“ALSE taught me a deeper understanding of personal values in life practicing humility and respecting others with kindness and empathy. Even with this alone, I already consider myself a winner.”
She further emphasized the inclusive spirit of the program, saying:
“In the ALSE community, we are all equal regardless of our status in life. I am so proud to be part of the program.”
Class Coordinator Anna Liza Valencia, 45, from Mandaluyong City, an English teacher and IELTS trainer, emphasized the deeper realization she gained from the program, “I would say that the realization is that anyone can lead a social enterprise with the right heart and purpose. And that a leader can rally a whole community toward an empowering cause for social development.”
Graduation Highlights and Alumni Oath
ALSE MENA coordinator Mona Pablo led the Alumni Oath Taking Ceremony, formally welcoming Batch 145 into the growing network of ALSE OF-LIFE alumni. As part of the ceremony, the graduates took their Oath as Alumni, affirming their commitment to uphold the values and principles of the program. An Affirmation Message from Batch 145 was delivered by Class Coordinator Anna Liza Valencia, inspiring graduates to continue applying their learning in both their personal and professional lives, and to lead with purpose, integrity, and service.
The culmination of the Social Innovation (SI) Business Plan presentations also recognized outstanding teams: 3rd Place, Tagalog Bay; 2nd Place, Green Flame SINAG and 1st Place, Sal de Pan. Individual excellence was also honored in the Best Essay category, with awards going to Anna Liza Valencia, Pablito Padron Jr., and Edward Feliciano for their thoughtful reflections and insights.
Gratitude and Recognition
A special acknowledgment was given to the Magalak Choir for leading the National Anthem, Graduation Song, and Ateneo Hymn, adding solemnity and inspiration to the ceremony.
Heartfelt appreciation was also extended to Mr. Renne Subido and Ms. Lyn Fiel Subido for their unwavering guidance and dedication throughout Batch 145’s journey. The Bahrain Secretariat, advisers, class officers, and the graduation committee were commended for organizing a well-coordinated and memorable milestone celebration.
Batch 145 was led by Ms. Teresita Corral, Lead Coordinator, whose leadership helped steer the cohort toward a successful and meaningful completion of the program.
Founded as a leadership and social entrepreneurship formation initiative, ALSE equips professionals and community leaders with values-driven education rooted in servant leadership, ethical governance, and sustainable development. Through academic instruction, mentorship, and practical social innovation projects, ALSE continues to empower individuals worldwide to become responsible providers, transformative leaders, and catalysts for positive change in their communities.
