by: DBTC correspondence
Don Bosco Technical College (DBTC) Cebu officially launched the Salesian Educators’ Assistance Day (SEDA) on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, as a concrete expression of its commitment to the Salesian pedagogy of presence inspired by St. John Bosco.
The initiative is the fruit of the school’s four-week Friday formation program for both teaching and non-teaching personnel, during which Salesian Educators reflected on their vocation of accompanying the young through authentic presence, meaningful relationships, and joyful service. As a collective resolution, every Wednesday during lunchtime has been designated as Salesian Educators’ Assistance Day, where educators intentionally spend time with students by being present around the campus, engaging them in meaningful conversations, and fostering a welcoming, family-like environment.
Grounded in the Salesian Educational System, SEDA seeks to encounter, engage, and empower Bosconians through the simple yet profound ministry of presence. Rather than remaining confined to offices or classrooms, educators are encouraged to accompany young people where they gather, creating opportunities for dialogue, encouragement, and pastoral care.
Beyond the ministry of presence, SEDA also embodies the school’s commitment to environmental stewardship. As part of the weekly observance, all offices switch off air-conditioning units, lights, and other unnecessary electrical equipment during the lunch break. This collective gesture serves as a sign of solidarity in conserving energy and echoes the spirit of the global Earth Hour movement, reminding the entire DBTC community of its shared responsibility to care for our common home. Through this simple but meaningful practice, Salesian Educators witness that caring for the young also includes caring for the environment they will inherit.
While the program is still in its early stages and will continue to evolve through regular evaluation and improvement, its launch already reflects the shared commitment and generous sacrifice of the DBTC Cebu community. Both teaching and non-teaching personnel have embraced the initiative as an integral part of their educational mission.
SEDA serves as a reminder that Salesian education is not limited to academic instruction but is fundamentally rooted in relationships. Through this initiative, DBTC Cebu continues to embody Don Bosco’s conviction that young people are transformed not only by what educators teach, but also by the love, care, and presence they experience each day.
As the Salesian tradition continually reminds educators, “Presence is the language of Salesian Education.” Through SEDA, DBTC Cebu renews its mission of walking with the young while fostering a culture of ecological responsibility, ensuring that every Bosconian feels seen, valued, accompanied, and loved.
