TACLOBAN CITY – Leyte Normal University (LNU), through its Graduate School, held “Himangraw Kita, Normalista: An Elevated Conversation on People, Institution, and Society” on October 17, 2026, at Crescencia Café, LNU Youngfield Campus, bringing together academic leaders, educators, graduate students, and representatives from the public and private sectors for a meaningful discourse on leadership, ethics, and social responsibility.

The event was graced by Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office VIII Director Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe, LNU President Dr. Gil Nicetas B. Villarino, members of the University Management Committee, Graduate School faculty members, and Dr. Ruben Manatad heading the thought leaders. Also participating were representatives from the local community leaders, Graduate School alumni and Graduate School students from the Doctor of Management, Doctor of Philosophy in Social Science Research, Doctor of Education major in Educational Administration, and Doctor of Education major in Language Teaching.

The initiative provided an inclusive intellectual space for meaningful dialogue, critical reflection, and the exchange of diverse perspectives. It encouraged participants to rethink leadership beyond conventional notions of position, power, and authority, emphasizing the significance of personal values, ethical responsibility, and integrity in fostering genuine leadership and meaningful service to society.

Anchored on the series theme “Leadership Without Permission: Who Leads When No One Is Watching?”, Dr. Manatad led a candid and thought-provoking conversation exploring the various dimensions of leadership. The discussion highlighted spirituality, compassion, humility, conscience, and truthfulness as fundamental values that shape ethical leadership and uphold integrity in public service. These principles also resonated with the message of Dr. Aljibe, who emphasized the importance of leadership with a heart, underscoring compassion and genuine concern for others as essential qualities of effective and meaningful leadership.

Dr. Manatad further underscored that genuine leadership transcends titles, positions, and recognition. Rather, it is reflected in one’s commitment to uphold moral principles, demonstrate accountability, and serve others with sincerity, even in the absence of supervision or public acknowledgment.

Through Himangraw Kita, Normalista, LNU reaffirmed its commitment to fostering critical discourse and reflective learning beyond the classroom, providing a platform where academic knowledge, professional experiences, and diverse societal perspectives converge to inspire ethical leadership and responsible citizenship.

Published by: Rico Combinido | IT Support Office