Letran-Calamba eyes ‘strength, stability, and sustainability, with Br. Roman Santos at the helm

The Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Calamba community marked a historic moment on Monday, June 23, 2025, with the solemn investiture of Br. Roman L. Santos, O.P., RPh, MBA, as the institution's ninth Rector and President. 

This ceremony heralded the beginning of a new era for the esteemed institution. The event, deeply rooted in faith, began with a Holy Eucharist celebration that unites the community in prayer for divine guidance and blessing on this new journey.

The investiture ceremony began with a formal academic procession followed by the ceremonial oath-taking of Br. Santos, in which he pledged his steadfast commitment to Letran-Calamba's core values and mission. 

In his inaugural address, Fr. Santos outlined his vision and strategic priorities designed to steer Letran-Calamba forward in the years to come. Now officially entrusted as the institution’s “torchbearer” for the next four years, the newly installed Rector and President emphasized a forward-looking path guided by the Colegio’s founding philosophy of Conscience, Discipline, and Excellence. His strategic leadership will be anchored on three core pillars: Strength, Stability, and Sustainability.

Under the strategic pillar of Strength, the institution, in collaboration with the Dominican friars of St. Albert the Great Convent, will place a renewed emphasis on nurturing a more pastoral approach among students and personnel. This initiative aims to deepen their understanding and embodiment of Catholic Dominican identity, charism, and mission.

As an autonomous Private Higher Education Institution (PHEI) recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Letran-Calamba is committed to sharpening its niche branding and cultural identity within the region. 

A top priority remains the consistent delivery of quality academic performances in licensure examinations, robust research and community extension programs, and maintaining the high employability of its graduates.

The second strategic focus, Stability, acknowledges that the lifeblood of any organization lies in the positive disposition and admirable character of its human resources. The Colegio values its people, as well as its commitment to excellent quality education. 

Ultimately, it will ensure that faculty and academic staff receive equitable opportunities for career growth and professional development, particularly in areas aligned with the institution's flagship programs.

To further enhance operational efficiency, the Colegio plans to implement a simplification of its operating system, ensuring that procedures and standards evolve without compromising accuracy and accountability.

Furthermore, significant attention will be given to the improvement and upgrading of technological equipment and facilities to keep pace with the rapid changes in educational trends.

For Sustainability, the Colegio will intensify its strong existing partnerships with other Dominican schools, including the University of Santo Tomas (Manila, Sta. Rosa, and General Santos), UST-Legazpi, UST Angelicum College, Angelicum School of Iloilo, and Colegio de San Juan de Letran in Manila, Bataan, and Manaoag. 

These collaborations will be pursued in a mutually enriching and purpose-driven manner. Building on the committed efforts of its predecessors who established the Colegio's untarnished reputation both locally and internationally,  the institution will actively strengthen its linkages and expand its networking systems to mirror those achievements. 

Finally, recognizing the vital role of social media as a gateway to virtual engagement, Letran-Calamba will strategically promote its programs, milestones, and distinguished alumni, taking center stage in the digital landscape.

The event was graced by the members of the Board of Trustees, His Excellency Most Reverend Marcelino Antonio M. Maralit, Jr., Bishop of the Diocese of San Pablo, Dr. Corazon Flores, OIC, Chief Education Program Specialist, Commission on Higher Education Region IV-A, Dominican Province of the Philippines (DPP) Community, personal guests of Br. Santos, religious communities, government officials, representatives from Letran-Calamba Alumni Association and Calamba City Higher Education Institutions Association, members of the Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, industry partners and personnel of Letran-Calamba.