Formed for Mission: The Story of IIREF in Davao

From its humble beginnings in June 1992, the Ignatian Institute of Religious Education Foundation (IIREF) Inc. has been a beacon of Ignatian-inspired theological education in Davao City. Founded by Fr. William J. Malley, S.J., IIREF first operated within the Ateneo de Davao University before finding its long‑term home at Holy Cross of Davao College in 2003. Today, located within the Holy Cross of Davao College campus, IIREF stands as an independent, archdiocesan institution dedicated to nurturing “Christic stewards and peace‑bringers” — leaders rooted in faith, committed to social justice, and shaped by the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola.

What makes IIREF unique is its deep sense of mission and its focus on making quality theological education accessible to all. Its offerings range from undergraduate courses in Adult Theological Formation, approved by CHED, to advanced graduate and doctoral programs in Theology. The master’s offerings span Theological Studies, Religious Education, Pastoral Ministry, Human and Christic Peace Studies, and Christic Stewardship, culminating in a fully accredited Ph.D. program. Its rigorous curriculum is complemented by its commitment to nurturing moral integrity and a heart for service. The institute doesn’t just educate in the traditional sense but it forms scholars and servants who can lead their communities, parishes, and ministries towards deeper spiritual renewal.

It sets IIREF apart in the Davao region as its dedication to making theological studies available beyond the walls of its classrooms. Through its Vicariate Schools of Theology (VST), it brings theological courses to parishes across Mindanao, including remote areas and even prison facilities, making sure that learning goes hand‑in‑hand with belonging and service. The annual “Family Day” and special lectures conducted with the Archbishop also create a strong sense of community and belonging among students, faculty, and alumni.

Throughout its journey, IIREF has shaped countless pastoral leaders and theologians. Its graduates, who range from lay ministers and religious leaders to parish volunteers and educators, have gone on to serve across Mindanao and beyond. Notably, in 2014, IIREF celebrated its first lay doctoral graduate, Dr. Joel A. Reyes, whose dissertation on the moral role of Christians in politics inspired both church and society. By 2017, the institute was honoring 40 new graduates across its doctoral, master’s, and adult formation programs, adding to the growing network of leaders who carry its mission forward.

With strong support from international benefactors like MISSIO Munich and MISSIO Aachen, IIREF has been able to sustain its mission of making quality theological education accessible, especially to those serving marginalized communities. Today, nestled within Holy Cross of Davao College, IIREF shines as a distinctive landmark in Davao’s academic and spiritual landscape a center for forming leaders of integrity, faith, and service.

Recently last June 22, 2025, during the 6:00pm Mass at San Pedro Cathedral, the graduates of IIREF had their Sending forth officiated by His Excellency, Most. Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D. During the sending forth, they were blessed and given candle and bible serving as symbols of their mission to continue preaching the Good News of the Lord to the rest of His people. In a city and a region where diversity, dialogue, and belonging matter deeply, IIREF stands as a testament to what theological education can accomplish when rooted in the heart of the Church and open to the world. (Allyza Hope J. Tabigue)