Behind the Brand: TALAB 2023's homage to 'Persons for Others @ 50'

Editor's Note: Welcome to "Behind the Brand, Behind the Brand," a recurring feature article brought to you by the Office of Student Activities. This series offers an exclusive glimpse into the innovative creative design processes employed by Ateneo college students. Join us on this inspiring journey as we uncover the stories, challenges, and triumphs behind the brand-building endeavors undertaken by the talented minds at Ateneo. We hope that this series will not only inform but also celebrate the remarkable achievements and creative prowess of our students.

For the past five decades, Ateneo de Manila University has exemplified the very essence of Jesuit education in the Philippines. At the heart of this commitment lies the enduring spirit of Fr. Pedro Arrupe's call to action - a call to be Persons for Others. 

As an institution known for its unwavering dedication to both spiritual formation and social change, Ateneo proudly celebrates its 50th year of championing this commitment through the annual event, Talakayang Alay sa Bayan, or TALAB. This event serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing issues facing our nation and offers students a unique opportunity to reflect on their roles in addressing them.

This year, TALAB 2023 carries a profound significance as it endeavors to take a step beyond mere reflection. It aspires to seek, lead, and empower discourse on societal issues. Under the theme, "Renewing Our Commitment: Persons for Others @ 50," the event is designed to be a platform for profound conversations, critical thinking, and mobilization for the greater good. The theme is a call to action, a reminder that the commitment to being Persons for Others must be continuously renewed, deepened, and translated into meaningful change.

The Logo and Its Symbolism
The TALAB 2023 logo encapsulates the spirit of the event, with St. Ignatius offering his sword as a symbol of selflessness and complete dedication to service, echoing the essence of being Persons for Others. The logo features radiant circles, reminiscent of a radio signal, signifying the far-reaching impact of St. Ignatius's philosophy, which acts as a beacon of hope. This beacon calls students to be not just persons for others but also with others, recognizing the interconnectedness of service, empathy, and social responsibility.

Understanding "Renewing Our Commitment: Persons for Others @ 50”
The theme "Renewing Our Commitment: Persons for Others @ 50" is a resounding call to action. It emphasizes that our commitment to social justice and service is not static but ever-evolving. Just as the flame of service must be rekindled, the commitment to being Persons for Others must be renewed and reaffirmed continually. The 50th-year celebration marks a significant milestone, but it also serves as a reminder that the work is far from done. It's an invitation for all Ateneans to realize their efforts in becoming beacons of hope, sources of positive change, compassionate citizens, and a more just society. TALAB 2023 is the embodiment of this call, offering a space for students to transform their commitment into action, to be the driving force behind the change they wish to see in the world.