Speaking at the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) 1st Josenian 3E Forum, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) President Jay Yuvallos delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the importance of visionary leadership, community service, and innovation in driving individual success and societal progress.
Yuvallos delivered the keynote speech during USJ-R 1st Josenian 3E Forum held recently at the Casino Espaňol de Cebu.
Reflecting on a recent conversation with a Singaporean business leader, Yuvallos highlighted the transformative role of Singapore’s former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, noting, “Your country could have been the powerhouse in Asia,” the businessman told him, referring to the Philippines’ abundant resources in the 1960s.
He pointed out that Singapore’s strong, disciplined leadership propelled it forward, while the Philippines failed to capitalize on its potential.
Reflecting on USJ-R’s mission, “Quality Christian Community-Oriented Education.”, President Jay emphasized that values like love and knowledge must be at the heart of everything, quoting 1 Corinthians 13:2: “Though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not charity, I am nothing.”
He underscored that these principles should guide students and alumni in their personal and professional endeavors. “We must stay grounded in the values we learn here,” he stated, reminding the audience of the importance of leading with intellect and compassion.
Turning to his role as CCCI president, Yuvallos shared the chamber’s “LEAD” agenda, a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening Cebu’s economic position. He explained that LEAD aims to promote Cebu as a premier destination for investment, Engaging the community, Activating partnerships, and Developing a culture of innovation.
“We need to position Cebu as a hub for investment, innovation, and growth,” Yuvallos said. He highlighted Cebu’s potential to become a major player in the global market, particularly with its growing infrastructure and talented workforce.
Yuvallos called on USJ-R alumni to actively contribute to the university and Cebu’s business ecosystem. “We have a responsibility to give back and help drive the progress of our community,” he said.
By pooling resources, expertise, and leadership, alumni can elevate both USJ-R and Cebu’s business landscape. “It’s our turn to give back—to be the partners, supporters, and champions who will take our university and our communities to the next level,” Yuvallos urged.
He also discussed the importance of innovation, noting that the world is evolving at an unprecedented pace. “Check-in kiosks, unmanned immigration gates, AI-enhanced EarPods, fintech at your fingertips: the future is here, but it’s the human touch, love, and knowledge that remain vital,” Yuvallos said. He encouraged both students and professionals to embrace this rapid technological advancement while staying connected to the fundamental values of empathy, collaboration, and service.
In closing, Yuvallos reminded the audience of the two greatest commandments: to love God and love your neighbor. “We are all called to lead,” he said, encouraging action, unity, and service to the community. “Adelante! Padayon Cebu! Maayong gabii natong tanan,” he concluded, leaving the audience with a powerful call to action rooted in leadership, love, and innovation.
Arnel Pahang, USJ-R Alumni Association vice president for external affairs, said the forum is a groundbreaking event for the USJ-R Alumni Association. The participants are graduates of various degree programs gathered for the first time in the institution’s 70-year history.
“We have never done this before,” Mr. Pahang said in an interview, acknowledging the unique nature of the event.
Despite the hurdles, the university used creative approaches to gather participants, starting with alumni networks and leveraging social media platforms.
Pahang explained that it coincides with a broader initiative to rebrand USJ-R as a premier university in the region. “It’s very timely because the city government has already renamed the area where USJ-R is located as Cebu’s Heritage District,” he said. This rebranding effort is part of a strategic vision to elevate the university’s status and align it with the city’s rich historical context.