St. Bridget College marked a historic milestone with the appointment of Dr. Bernadette I. Manalo as its new College President. The announcement, made during the Eucharistic Celebration on June 29, 2026, at the SBC Chapel in Batangas City, also confirmed her as the first lay leader to assume the position in the institution’s history.
The announcement was formally delivered by Sr. Mary Susan F. Montano, RGS, Province Leader, who shared that Dr. Manalo’s appointment came upon the recommendation of the Board of Trustees and the approval of the Province Leadership Team (PLT) on June 27, 2026. Her initial term will run for three academic years beginning July 1, 2026.
The appointment marks a significant step in the College’s commitment to mission-centered leadership and reflects the evolving role of lay partners in advancing the Bridgetine mission of Catholic education. Her Installation Ceremony is set on September 15, 2026, at St. Bridget College, Batangas.
The leadership transition follows the dedicated service of Sr. Ma. Añanita Borbon, RGS, PhD, whose term as College President concludes on June 30, 2026. She has been appointed by the Congregational Leader as Director of the Spirituality Center and Community Coordinator at the Mother House in Angers, France. In her message, Sr. Mary Susan expressed deep gratitude for Sr. Anya’s years of committed leadership and invaluable contributions to the institution.
The Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Rev. Fr. Adrian Caraos, former SBC faculty, set a reflective tone for the day. In his homily, he called on the Bridgetine community to place their trust in the Good Shepherd, emphasizing that true discipleship is rooted in obedience and fidelity to one’s mission. He encouraged everyone to remain steadfast in their commitment to the institution and trust that God continues to guide and work through them in the SBC community.
Following the Mass, the Bridgetine community convened for the General Assembly at the SBC Manuela Q. Pastor Auditorium, anchored on the theme “Faith in Action: A New Beginning on Our Shared Mission.” The gathering provided an opportunity for reflection and unity as the institution moves forward under new leadership.
During the assembly, Sr. Anya delivered her final message as College President, urging the community to remain hopeful, resilient, and united. She encouraged everyone to believe in one another’s potential, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and stay focused on the College’s shared mission.
The gathering also reinforced the College’s commitment to safeguarding and ongoing institutional development. A Safeguarding Policy Orientation led by Mr. Fernando R. Cultura, Safeguarding Focal Person, underscored the importance of maintaining a safe and nurturing environment.
Adding joy to the celebration, the program likewise featured an intermission performance by newly hired Partners in Mission and recently appointed personnel. It also included the recognition of outgoing IFSA officers and the induction of newly elected officers, namely Mrs. Melba P. Comendador, President; Ms. Lea Chariz A. Castillo, Vice President; Ms. Catherine M. Cantos, Secretary; Mr. Jerome B. Geli, Treasurer; Mrs. Myrna P. Fabonan, Maintenance Representative; Mr. Carlos A. Flores III, IPS Representative; Ms. Lea A. Flores, Elementary Representative; Mr. Paul Vincent M. Ilagan, JHS Representative; Ms. Jhoanna Marie B. Vergara, SHS Representative; and Ms. Lalaine C. Ramirez, College Representative.
Updates on the College’s strategic direction were presented through the Institutional Development Program by Dr. Imelda B. Vergara, Institutional Research, Planning, and Publications Officer.
This was followed by a video presentation, which highlighted key accomplishments and updates from both the Basic Education Department (BED) and College levels. This offered the community a comprehensive view of the institution’s recent gains and continuing initiatives.
The General Assembly concluded with a Ritual of Commitment and Sending Forth, as the Bridgetine community renewed its dedication to faith, unity, and service.
To mark the occasion, each Partner in Mission received a souvenir symbolizing their shared identity and commitment as St. Bridget College enters a new chapter under the leadership of Dr. Bernadette I. Manalo.
by:
Ms. Andrea M. Kalalo
IRPPO Staff