Ketan Gala MUMBAI, DECEMBER 15, 2008: The 9th Asia-Australia Congress of the Past Pupils of Don Bosco was held at Fontana Leisure Park, Clark Field, Pampanga, Philippines from December 3 to 7, 2008. Fr. Jeronimo Monteiro, the World Delegate of the Past 
Pupils, Fr. Eli Cruz, Provincial of the Philippines North Province, Mr. Francesco Muceo, World Confederal President and over 180 delegates from different countries of Asia and Australia graced the occasion. A large delegation from India participated in this international event; the biggest contingent was from the Province of Mumbai headed by Fr. Elias Diaz the Provincial Delegate. The Congress began with the opening ceremony and welcome speeches by various dignitaries. In his keynote address titled “The Salesian Family Spirit – Our call to Holiness”, Fr. Francis Gustillo stressed on the identity, mission and formation of the Past Pupils. In the evening, the Salesian Community of Don Bosco Academy of Pampanga entertained the delegates with traditional Filipino music, dance and food. During the Congress, the Governor of Pampanga Mr. Ed Panlilio spoke on how to bring about social transformation. Mr. Antonio Bernardo, former Commissioner of Customs, urged the Past Pupils to fight against the ills of the times. Mr. Raul Sarceda narrated his experiences of working in the field of the family ministry. Philippines Central Bank Governorm Armando Tetangcom explained the current economi
cal situation in the world and its impact on business. Fr. Martin Macasaet gave an idea of the youth situation and the response the alumni should give to combat it. The delegates were given the opportunity to interact with each other during workshops and question hour. They took time off from their busy schedule to visit the numerous historic places in Pampanga. The trip was a treat for everyone as they experienced the rich cultural and historical significance of each site they visited The Congress drew up a common statement which says: “Each member of the Salesian Family by the virtue of their association wi
th Don Bosco recognizes and accepts the call to Holiness. Each alumnus responds to this call by giving primacy to God in their personal, family and professional life and by choosing and leading a life of honesty and integrity in the spirit of Don Bosco. This impels them to be role models in their families, a leaven in society and a living Don Bosco among the young and marginalized.” The farewell dinner was hosted at Lakeshore Club House. The alumni sang and danced and bid goodbye to one another… “till we meet again in Korea”.
Pupils, Fr. Eli Cruz, Provincial of the Philippines North Province, Mr. Francesco Muceo, World Confederal President and over 180 delegates from different countries of Asia and Australia graced the occasion. A large delegation from India participated in this international event; the biggest contingent was from the Province of Mumbai headed by Fr. Elias Diaz the Provincial Delegate. The Congress began with the opening ceremony and welcome speeches by various dignitaries. In his keynote address titled “The Salesian Family Spirit – Our call to Holiness”, Fr. Francis Gustillo stressed on the identity, mission and formation of the Past Pupils. In the evening, the Salesian Community of Don Bosco Academy of Pampanga entertained the delegates with traditional Filipino music, dance and food. During the Congress, the Governor of Pampanga Mr. Ed Panlilio spoke on how to bring about social transformation. Mr. Antonio Bernardo, former Commissioner of Customs, urged the Past Pupils to fight against the ills of the times. Mr. Raul Sarceda narrated his experiences of working in the field of the family ministry. Philippines Central Bank Governorm Armando Tetangcom explained the current economi
cal situation in the world and its impact on business. Fr. Martin Macasaet gave an idea of the youth situation and the response the alumni should give to combat it. The delegates were given the opportunity to interact with each other during workshops and question hour. They took time off from their busy schedule to visit the numerous historic places in Pampanga. The trip was a treat for everyone as they experienced the rich cultural and historical significance of each site they visited The Congress drew up a common statement which says: “Each member of the Salesian Family by the virtue of their association wi
th Don Bosco recognizes and accepts the call to Holiness. Each alumnus responds to this call by giving primacy to God in their personal, family and professional life and by choosing and leading a life of honesty and integrity in the spirit of Don Bosco. This impels them to be role models in their families, a leaven in society and a living Don Bosco among the young and marginalized.” The farewell dinner was hosted at Lakeshore Club House. The alumni sang and danced and bid goodbye to one another… “till we meet again in Korea”.