Philippines: IFFAsia, Loyola School of Theology Renew Partnership to Form Young Asian Lay Leaders

The Institute of Formation Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia) and the Loyola School of Theology (LST) have renewed their partnership to offer a joint diploma program preparing young lay leaders for service in the Church and community development across Asia.

The two institutions renewed their Memorandum of Agreement for the Diploma in Integral Leadership and Community Development (DIL) Program in Manila, Philippines. IFFAsia was represented by its Formation Team, led by Director Florence Alexius, while LST was represented by its president, Jesuit Father Renato Repole.

The partnership combines IFFAsia’s experience in leadership and human formation with LST’s theological education to equip young people for leadership and service in the Church and wider society.

Based in Metro Manila, IFFAsia is a formation initiative of Fondacio, an international Christian movement committed to human development and social transformation. It accompanies individuals and communities through programs that integrate personal growth, Christian spirituality, leadership, and social engagement.

LST, based at the Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, is a Jesuit theological institution that provides theological and pastoral formation for priests, religious, and laypeople.

The DIL is a non-degree program designed for young adults aged 23 to 38 who wish to develop their leadership capacities and contribute to local Church and civil society initiatives.

The program has two learning phases. From January to May, participants undertake human development and leadership formation, including faith formation, psychosocial development, social analysis, and ecclesiology.

From June to November, the social-pastoral leadership phase covers development theories, contemporary social issues, Catholic social teaching, and pastoral ministry.

Following the program, graduates undertake a two-year internship, implementing a Development Action Plan with guidance from IFFAsia and their respective sending organizations.

Through the renewed partnership, the institutions seek to develop lay leaders capable of responding to the social and pastoral challenges facing communities across Asia.

The program emphasizes leadership as a commitment to service, participation, and the common good rather than simply holding positions of responsibility.

Applications for the January 2027 intake are open, with scholarships available for eligible candidates.

Young adults interested in the program can contact IFFAsia at [email protected] or +63 2 8967 9434. Further information is available at fondacio-asia.org/iffasia.