The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) and Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu (SHS-AdC) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on programs that support Cebuano communities across key sectors. Initial efforts will focus on education and learning communities, with opportunities to explore collaboration in other sectors as the partnership develops.

This partnership brings together RAFI and SHS-AdC in exploring opportunities to advance education initiatives for learning communities. Among the priority projects are possible support for RAFI’s recovery efforts following the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu in 2025, including the provision of Temporary Learning Spaces for learners. Other post-earthquake learning continuity initiatives may include mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) for teachers and remediation programs for students in affected areas.

“This Memorandum of Agreement reflects more than institutional cooperation. It expresses a mutual desire to work together in trust, transparency, and service. Allow me to highlight one word that captures the spirit of why RAFI and Sacred Heart School come together today: collaboration,” said Fr. Nono Levosada, SJ – Director, Campus Ministry and Social Involvement Office of the SHS-AdC, in his message. “We often hear the word “collab” these days – artists working together, brands partnering with creators. But at its root, collaboration means co-laboring: sharing the work, sharing God’s work, and therefore, it is always shared work,” he added. 

Capacity-building initiatives will also be reactivated through the partnership, following a pause during the pandemic. These may include leadership and values formation programs aligned with SHS-AdC’siLead program, which promotes leadership, teamwork, and responsibility through outdoor and experiential learning. These efforts support SHS-AdC’s mission of forming “men and women for others” and align with RAFI’s thrust on youth civic engagement and development. 

“At RAFI, our theme this year is Past Forward- looking back to understand where we come from, recognizing what is valuable from the past, and bringing these lessons with us as we move forward. Strong partnerships are built on shared values and beliefs, and I believe our organizations share these foundations. I am glad that we are coming together again after a pause in our programs and engagements. I look forward to how RAFI can serve the students and how we can learn from one another as we further each other’s mission,” said Amaya A. Fansler, RAFI President and CEO. 

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding marks the beginning of a three-year partnership that seeks to strengthen collaboration and align efforts for greater impact.  

RAFI, as an Architect of Change, works with communities, leaders, and partners to co-create transformative solutions. Guided by the belief that every organization and community member brings unique strengths, or what RAFI calls “bugsay,” the partnership aims to move forward together toward a future where communities are resilient, vibrant, and thriving.