Manila, Philippines — Warm sunlight and clear blue skies greeted members of the Association of Salesian Cooperators (ASC) as they gathered on August 1, 2026, at the Joy Center of Don Bosco Technical Institute–Makati for an engaging and action-oriented joint meeting of the ASC Provincial Council and Local Centers of the Philippine North Province (FIN).

Held from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the gathering began with the simple warmth characteristic of the Salesian Family. Cooperators exchanged greetings, pleasantries, and small conversations that created a calm atmosphere, positive energy, and renewed connections. A good representation from the different local centers affirmed the spirit of collaboration and cooperation among the members. Soon, the signal sounded for the formal start of the gathering, which commenced with an opening prayer.

One of the significant moments of the meeting was a look back at the 150th Anniversary of the Association of Salesian Cooperators. Members recalled the two major celebrations of this milestone: the Philippine celebration held at Savio’s Dome of Don Bosco Technical Institute–Makati and the international celebration held in Rome, Italy. Both celebrations highlighted the enduring charism of St. John Bosco and its mission directed toward young people, particularly the marginalized, the voiceless, and the underprivileged.

The anniversary also served as a reminder that such celebrations are not single or one-day commemorations. Rather, they are continuous manifestations of the Salesian charism through daily living, stories shared, works done extraordinarily well, and a culture of service faithfully carried on through the years. This spirit was made concrete through the renewal of the promise of long-time members and the induction of aspirants into the Association.

The program continued with a look back at the history of the Association of Salesian Cooperators. The Relaunch Formation Module was likewise presented and warmly welcomed by the participants, underscoring the importance of continuing formation as Cooperators deepen their identity, spirituality, and mission within the Salesian Family.

Attention then turned to upcoming activities. The Salesian Family Recollection was announced for August 29, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Don Bosco Technical College in Mandaluyong. With the theme “Animation and Accompaniment in the Salesian Family: Journeying Together to Be a Greater Prophecy and Gift for the Whole Church,” the recollection will provide another opportunity for members of the Salesian Family to journey together in faith, communion, and mission.

The ASC Annual Retreat was also scheduled for December 5–6, 2026, at Don Bosco Batulao. Room rates, meals, and other inclusions were presented to the participants as part of the preparations for this important moment of prayer, reflection, and renewal.

Finally, one of the most anticipated announcements of the meeting was the unveiling of preparations for the 10th International Congress of Mary Help of Christians, scheduled for February 9–12, 2028. The congress will be held at Don Bosco Technical Institute–Makati and the Minor Basilica of Mary Help of Christians. Its theme, “Blessed Is the Fruit of Your Womb: Mary, Womb of Light and Source of Unity,” invites participants to be Bearers of Light, Builders of Unity, Missionary Disciples, and Witnesses of Hope.

With an estimated 3,000 participants expected to take part in the international gathering, committees were created to ensure orderly tasking, implementation, and clear responsibilities, covering the different aspects of the congress from registration until its conclusion. The early preparations reflected both the magnitude of the event and the shared responsibility required of the Salesian Family in welcoming participants from different parts of the world.

With plans clarified, responsibilities identified, and the road ahead becoming clearer, the joint meeting concluded at 12:30 p.m. More than a morning of discussions and schedules, the gathering renewed the bonds among the Cooperators and recalled a mission that has continued for 150 years: to carry Don Bosco’s charism forward through lives of service, communion, and hope, especially for young people who need it most.