Living Water, Living Communities: Archdiocesan Social Action Center Conducts Forum on Living Waters

The Archdiocesan Social Action Center (ASAC) of the Archdiocese of Davao successfully conducted the “The Living Water” (Buhi nga Tubig) Forum Activity on August 29, 2026, at the University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) Auditorium, Fr. Selga Street, Bankerohan, Davao City.

Carrying the message, “The Living Water: A Source of Life, A Call to Care, A Commitment to Act,” the forum gathered students, school representatives, church workers, and social action advocates to deepen their understanding of water conservation, environmental stewardship, climate change, El Niño, disaster preparedness, and community resilience.

Anchored on Ezekiel 47:9, “Wherever the river flows, everything will live,” the activity presented water not only as an essential resource but also as a gift of creation entrusted to humanity. It emphasized that caring for water is inseparable from the Christian responsibility to care for God’s creation and the common home.

Participants included students from the University of the Immaculate Conception, representatives from different schools, and members of the Parish Social Action Ministry from various parishes in the Archdiocese of Davao. Their participation highlighted the importance of bringing environmental awareness and action into educational institutions, parishes, and local communities.

The program opened with a prayer led by Sr. Ma. Jean C. Gabuya, TDM, followed by the National Anthem through an audio-visual presentation. Rev. Fr. Leonardo A. Dublan Jr., Director of ASAC, delivered the welcome remarks.

The first presentation, “Living Water: A Spiritual and Faith Perspective,” was given by Fr. Ritsche J. Gamaya, who explored the significance of water from a faith perspective and reflected on the Christian call to become responsible stewards of creation.

The second presentation, “Water Conservation and Care for Our Common Home,” was delivered by Mr. Charles Dwayne Tumalip. His discussion focused on responsible water use and the importance of collective efforts to protect and conserve water resources. Participants were reminded that environmental responsibility begins not only through institutional programs but also through simple and consistent actions in everyday life.

The third presentation, “Water, El Niño, and Community Resilience,” was given by Engr. Lolita Vinalay, who provided insights into weather patterns, climate-related concerns, particularly El Niño, and the need for communities to strengthen their preparedness and resilience in facing environmental hazards.

The forum also provided an opportunity for dialogue through an open forum, question-and-answer session, and sharing of insights. Participants were able to raise concerns, exchange experiences, and reflect on how the lessons from the forum could be applied within their respective schools, parishes, families, and communities.

The activity was further graced by the presence of Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao, whose presence affirmed the Archdiocese’s continuing commitment to social responsibility and the care of creation. The gathering concluded with a closing message from Mr. Charlie Modequillo, Archdiocesan Desk for the Care of Creation (ADCC) in-charge and followed by a prayer and photo opportunity among the participants, speakers, and organizers.

The forum is also part of the lineup of activities of the ASAC, particularly through the ADCC, in this year’s celebration of the Season of Creation. Through initiatives such as this, the Archdiocese continues to encourage communities to deepen their commitment to environmental stewardship and to recognize the connection between faith, care for creation, and social responsibility.

As the Season of Creation calls the faithful to listen to creation and respond through concrete action, “The Living Water” gives a reminder: water is life, and caring for it is caring for our common home.