“An experience where the hearts are overwhelmed with joy, eyes are filled with amazing sceneries, and minds gained valuable ideas that can be used as advantage to move forward together.”.
The FCIC family set out on a special journey to Bacolod City, known as the City of Smiles. What seemed like just a simple trip turned into something deeper—an experience filled with joy, faith, learning, and connection. It wasn’t just about traveling; it was about growing together and finding new inspiration.
The adventure began with a warm welcome from the University of Negros Occidental. A delicious lunch and comfortable stay made everyone feel right at home. The first stop brought the group to the peaceful Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in Talisay City where the employees, considered as pilgrims, offered prayers—not just for personal needs, but for the whole institution. It was a moment of peace and reflections. After prayers, posing smiles and selfies, the next stop was at the St James the Greater Church and the Our Lady of Medjugorje, where it gave a deeper spiritual experience as the group joined the celebration of the Ascension of the Lord. Meeting Franciscan priests and hearing the story of the church made the moment even more meaningful.
The next day, started with a peaceful and heartwarming Mass at St. Ezekiel Moreno Monastery. Surrounded by nature and silence, it was the perfect place to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our faith before the day’s adventures. The journey continued to Campuestohan Highland Resort, where excitement filled the air. With its cool mountain breeze and stunning views, the resort brought joy and energy through thrilling rides, playful attractions, and wide open spaces perfect for bonding and fun.
A delicious lunch followed at Lion’s Park Restaurant, where local flavors and hearty meals brought comfort and satisfaction, all shared in a lively and welcoming setting.
The final stop of the day was at The Ruins, a historical treasure in Bacolod. Its grand structure, though scarred by fire, stood with grace and strength. Beyond its beauty, the story behind the mansion added depth to the visit—a tale of love, loss, and lasting legacy that left a lasting impression.
The third day marked the highlight of the visit to the City of Smiles with the benchmarking activity at the University of Negros Occidental–Recoletos. The morning opened with a heartfelt Mass at San Sebastian Cathedral where gratitude and prayer set a reflective and hopeful tone before proceeding to the main agenda.
The benchmarking experience provided a rich opportunity to engage deeply with the university’s best practices across various departments. Through detailed campus tours, the facilities and learning environments were observed firsthand, showcasing how the university fosters academic excellence and a nurturing community. Conversations with staff and administrators revealed their approaches to curriculum development, student engagement, and community involvement—key elements that align closely with FCIC’s mission and vision. #QualityEducation #Partnership
By highlighting inclusive learning systems and strong institutional connections, the benchmarking activity supported shared efforts between UNO–Recoletos and FCIC to advance sustainable education goals. It reflected a joint commitment to #QualityEducation by promoting access to high-quality, values-based learning, and to #Partnership by building meaningful collaborations that strengthen both institutions in their pursuit of academic and moral excellence.
These exchanges proved invaluable, highlighting how innovation, discipline, and strong values are woven into the university’s culture. The insights gained serve as inspiration for FCIC’s ongoing efforts to become a globally competitive school—one that not only prioritizes academic excellence but also nurtures values-based education. Understanding how UNO–Recoletos balances quality education with character formation reinforces FCIC’s commitment to developing students who are not only knowledgeable but also responsible and compassionate members of society.
The day’s experience strengthened the resolve to continue improving programs and services, guided by the goal of providing a holistic education that prepares learners for both professional success and meaningful contributions to their communities. This benchmarking activity stands as a vital step in the journey toward greater educational excellence and faithful adherence to core values.
These experiences reminded everyone that faith and learning go hand in hand. The trip sparked new energy to keep improving and to build a school that’s not only excellent in education but also strong in values. More than just a trip, it became a journey of the heart and mind. A time to reflect, reconnect, and reimagine the future together.
