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Registrations will open on August 25, 2025, at 8:00 AM

Family and Life Annual Conference

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Family and Life Annual Conference 2025 

The 9th Family and Life Conference returns this October with a powerful theme: “Anchored in Hope.” This one-day gathering brings together families, educators, pastoral leaders, and mental health advocates to explore how faith and community can thrive in the digital age.

In today’s fast-changing world, families face new challenges—from digital distractions to shifting cultural norms. This conference is a call to renew our commitment to Christ-centered living. From forming young hearts at home, to shaping minds in the classroom, to leading family-rooted enterprises, each session is grounded in Catholic faith and Filipino values—offering spiritual nourishment, practical guidance, and a deeper sense of mission for every vocation.

View Full Schedule Breakout Sessions Meet the Speakers

Commission on Family and Life Archdiocese of Manila 

Anchored in Hope: A Catholic Vision from Rerum Novarum to the Digital Age”

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” Hebrews 6:19

Why this verse?

  • "Hope as an anchor" directly ties into the theme phrase “Anchored in Hope.”
  • It reflects stability and faith, essential when navigating social change—from the industrial era (Rerum Novarum, 1891) to today's digital age.
  • It emphasizes that our foundation is Christ, consistent with the Catholic vision for family, life, and society.


Rationale

In a time marked by rapid cultural, technological, and social shifts, the Church is called to re-affirm its timeless commitment to the dignity of the human person, the sanctity of the family, and the defense of life at all stages. This conference, titled "Anchored in Hope: A Catholic Vision from Rerum Novarum to the Digital Age," seeks to ground our contemporary challenges in the rich heritage of Catholic social teaching, beginning with Pope Leo XIII’s landmark encyclical Rerum Novarum (1891) and extending through successive teachings to our present digital era.

Rerum Novarum established a foundational Catholic response to the injustices of the Industrial Revolution, affirming the dignity of labor, the rights of workers, the centrality of the family, and the need for social solidarity. Today, we face new forms of injustice—rooted in technological exploitation, digital alienation, attacks on human life, and the weakening of family structures.

This conference invites participants to explore how the Catholic vision continues to offer hope in the midst of these challenges—hope that is not naïve optimism, but a deep theological virtue that anchors us in Christ. By revisiting the social magisterium of the Church and applying its principles to current realities such as digital culture, bioethical concerns, gender ideology, and the role of AI in society, we strive to articulate a consistent and courageous response to the questions of our time.

In particular, this gathering seeks to:


  • Renew the commitment to protecting life and strengthening the family in the face of modern threats.
  • Promote digital responsibility and ethical engagement with technology in a way that upholds human dignity.
  • Form and equip families, lay leaders, and pastoral workers with Catholic tools for cultural discernment and moral action.
  • Inspire all participants with the hope that arises from Christ, who “makes all things new” (Rev 21:5), even in the most uncertain times.


In fidelity to the Church's teachings and mission, and rooted in prayer, reflection, and dialogue, we move forward with confidence that the Gospel remains the sure anchor for our families and our world—yesterday, today, and always.

Conference Objectives

Rooted in Catholic tradition and responsive to modern challenges, these objectives guide our exploration of faith, ethics, and social responsibility in a rapidly changing digital world.

  1. To explore the relevance of Rerum Novarum with the statement of Pope Leo XIV about the digital revolution
  2. To examine how Pope Leo XIII’s 1891 encyclical continues to provide moral and social guidance in light of evolving economic and technological contexts, from the Industrial Revolution to the Digital Age.
  3. To analyze the Church’s social teaching across historical transitions
  4. To trace the development of Catholic Social Teaching in response to major societal shifts, emphasizing continuity and adaptability of Gospel values amid changing labor, economic, and technological landscapes.
  5. To encourage participants—especially younger generations and pastoral leaders—to apply the principles of Catholic Social Teaching in their communities, advocating for human dignity, solidarity, and the common good in an era of digital transformation.

Ground discussions in the enduring truth of Scripture, especially Matthew 24:35, affirming the constancy of God’s Word in guiding humanity through rapid and uncertain societal changes.

Full Program Schedule

Prepare for a day filled with spiritual renewal, insightful learning, and meaningful connections.

From morning Mass to breakout sessions and plenary talks, the 9th Family and Life Conference offers a thoughtfully curated program designed to inspire, equip, and celebrate every participant.


Here's what to expect throughout the day:

Breakout Session Topics

Speaker: Francisco Claravall

Description:

In today’s interconnected world, family enterprises are uniquely positioned to thrive by combining tradition, trust, and technological agility. "Click and Connect" is more than a guide to going digital; it’s a blueprint for maintaining ethical integrity while embracing innovation.

This talk explores how family-owned businesses can leverage digital tools and platforms to strengthen relationships, improve governance, and foster transparency without compromising on the ethical values that are often the bedrock of these enterprises. "Click and connect" not only with technology but with what truly matters: people, principles, and purpose.

Rationale:

  1. In a rapidly evolving digital economy, family enterprises risk falling behind if they don’t adopt new technologies. This talk ensures they understand what's at stake and how to take action.
  2. With the right digital infrastructure, family can start a small business and even expand with some available opportunities online without compromising core values.
  3. The topic aims to address this critical intersection between technology adoption and ethical business practices. While digital tools can streamline operations and enhance communication, they also demand a thoughtful approach to values-based leadership, especially in enterprises where family relationships intertwine with business decisions.
  4. The talk is grounded in the belief that ethical integrity is not a constraint but a competitive advantage. By embedding ethical considerations into digital transformation strategies, family enterprises can ensure long-term sustainability, preserve their legacy, and model responsible business practices for future generations.
  5. Ultimately, the talk seeks to empower family businesses to not only connect through technology but to stay connected to their core values, proving that ethical leadership is timeless and essential in both traditional and digital business landscapes.

Objectives:

  • To know about the importance of accountability by explaining how digital tools can enhance communication, collaboration, and transparency in family businesses and by this point of view, unethical ways in the accumulation of profits must be avoided
  • To offer some practical knowledge in establishing small business by providing actionable tools and platforms suited for family enterprises
  • To discover key digital tools that can help streamline operations and improve customer engagement for business
  • To explore the advantage of data and analytics on how these can be helpful for a family to have strategic decisions by making a business plan in balancing profit with purpose, especially in the context of sustainability, fair labor practices, and community engagement.

Speaker: Dr. Michele Alignay

Description:

In today’s fast-paced, screen-saturated world, parenting has entered a new era - one where digital media shapes how children learn, socialize, and see the world. While technology offers countless benefits, it also presents real challenges for families striving to stay connected, grounded, and emotionally present.

This talk explores how parents can thoughtfully navigate the digital landscape without losing sight of what matters most: emotional connection, empathy, and values-driven parenting. We'll dive into practical strategies for setting healthy boundaries around screen time, fostering open communication, and modeling mindful media use. We’ll also discuss how to cultivate digital resilience and emotional intelligence in children - equipping them to thrive both online and offline.

Whether you're raising toddlers, teens, or in between, this session will empower you to parent with intention in the digital age, blending the power of technology with the irreplaceable power of the human heart.

Rationale:

  1. The rapid advancement of digital media has profoundly transformed the way families live, learn, and communicate. From smartphones and tablets to social media and streaming platforms, children today are growing up in a digital-first environment. While these technologies offer educational opportunities, creative outlets, and global connectivity, they also raise concerns about screen addiction, cyberbullying, reduced face-to-face interaction, and the erosion of emotional bonds within families.
  2. In this context, parenting has become more complex than ever. Many parents struggle to find the right balance between allowing their children to benefit from digital tools and protecting them from the risks they pose. At the same time, there is a growing need to preserve essential values such as empathy, emotional connection, while these tools offer convenience and opportunities for learning, they also raise urgent questions about screen time, data privacy, emotional development, and the erosion of human connection and mindful communication—elements that are too often diminished in a screen-dominated world.
  3. As a result, parents are navigating uncharted territory, balancing the benefits of digital technology with the responsibility of nurturing empathy, critical thinking, and emotional resilience in their children. 
  4. By blending psychological insight, ethical reflection, and practical strategies, this talk supports a balanced approach to raising children who are not only tech-savvy but also kind, thoughtful, and emotionally grounded proving that in an age of machines, the human heart still matters most.

Objectives:

  • To help parents understand the impact of the digital media and technology on childhood development and family dynamics 
  • To empower families to make intentional, values-based decisions about technology use at home
  • To encourage the cultivation of emotional intelligence, ethical awareness, and real-world social skills alongside digital literacy
  • To promote a vision of parenting that embraces innovation without compromising human warmth, connection, and guidance

Speaker: Mr. Edwin Lopez

Description:

Education has always evolved from oral traditions to chalkboards, textbooks to tablets. Now, as AI-powered tools like chatbots and generative models enter classrooms and learning spaces, we’re witnessing a profound shift not only in how we learn but in what learning looks and feels like.

This talk explores the aesthetic evolution of education in the age of artificial intelligence. It traces how the design, delivery, and experience of learning have transformed from structured, linear methods to dynamic, personalized, and interactive formats.

Rationale:

  1. The integration of artificial intelligence into education marks a significant paradigm shift not only in functionality and access, but in the aesthetic experience of learning itself. From the tactile simplicity of chalkboards to the conversational complexity of AI chatbots, the tools we use to teach and learn profoundly shape the way knowledge is perceived, absorbed, and applied.
  2. This talk is rooted in the belief that education is not merely about information delivery — it is a designed experience that affects learners cognitively, emotionally, and socially. As AI-driven systems become more common in classrooms, online platforms, and informal learning spaces, it is essential to reflect on how these technologies are transforming the aesthetics of education: its rhythm, texture, interactivity, and even its human touch. 
  3. By drawing connections between historical tools and emerging AI technologies, this talk encourages a deeper awareness of the cultural and emotional dimensions of learning. It calls for intentional, ethical design that ensures future education is not only smart — but also meaningful and aesthetically rich.

Objectives:

  • To examine how the form of learning environments evolve with technological change
  • To explore how AI tools like chatbots influence the tone, personalization, and fluidity of modern learning
  • To provide some possible answers to the questions on the implications of replacing physical, human-centered tools with digital and data-driven interfaces by discussing the risks of depersonalization brought about by the digital technology
  • To encourage educators, catechists and family and life formators to consider not only efficiency and scalability, but also beauty, empathy, and equity in educational design with the help of digital technology
  • To discuss the ethical and cultural implications of learning through AI without compromising the Catholic core values

Speaker: Dr. Kathlyn Daphne Ong

Description:

In an age dominated by constant connectivity, the human soul is increasingly burdened by digital noise, fractured attention, and emotional exhaustion. This talk explores how pastoral care can offer a path to peace and restoration amidst the relentless pace of digital life. Drawing from spiritual traditions, psychological insights, and practical ministry, we will examine how faith communities can compassionately respond to the mental strain caused by technology overuse.

This is an invitation to clergy, ministry leaders, counselors, and family and life workers to become gentle guides-helping others unplug not just from devices, but from anxiety, distraction, and the loss of self. Together, we will rediscover the peace that surpasses understanding in a world that desperately needs it.

Rationale:

  1. In today's hyperconnected world, digital technology permeates nearly every aspect of life. While it offers many benefits, the constant influx of information, notifications, and online engagement has also led to a widespread sense of mental strain, emotional fatigue, and spiritual disconnection. Individuals increasingly report feelings of anxiety, burnout, isolation, and diminished attention—all of which can hinder their well-being and disrupt their relationship with God and others.
  2. This talk addresses the urgent need for a pastoral response to these modern challenges. It recognizes that digital overload is not merely a technological or psychological issue, but also a deeply spiritual one. The church and its leaders are uniquely positioned to help individuals reclaim peace through a balanced, compassionate, and theologically grounded approach.
  3. By integrating pastoral care, spiritual practices, and mental health awareness, this session will offer insights into how Christian communities can become sanctuaries of rest and reflection. It encourages a renewal of Sabbath principles, mindful engagement, and intentional disconnection from the digital noise—so that individuals may re-center their lives on what truly matters: presence, peace, and the sustaining grace of God.

Objectives: 

  1. To identify the spiritual and psychological effects of digital overload and constant connectivity on individuals and communities.
  2. To understand the role of pastoral care in addressing mental strain related to technology overuse and digital burnout.
  3. To explore theological and biblical foundations for rest, silence, and Sabbath as essential components of mental and spiritual well-being.
  4. To develop practical strategies and pastoral tools to help individuals and congregations set healthy digital boundaries and cultivate habits of rest and reflection.
  5. To foster a ministry environment that prioritizes presence, deep listening, and holistic care in a digitally distracted world.


Meet the Speakers

Rev. Fr. Joel O. Jason

Head of CFL Manila

Fr. Joel serves as the Spiritual Adviser of Couples for Christ and Head of the Commission on Family and Life of the Archdiocese of Manila. He is a former parish priest of Mary Mirror of Justice Parish in Makati, and now serves as Resident Formator and Dean of Studies at the Graduate School of Theology in San Carlos Seminary, guiding future clergy in pastoral and doctrinal formation.

Dr. Kathryn-Daphne M. Ong

MD, MBE, DSBPP

Dr. Kathryn is an adult psychiatrist and bioethicist with advanced training in theology, psycho-oncology, and formation. A graduate of the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross and the University of Santo Tomas, she integrates science, philosophy, and faith in her clinical practice, teaching, and research—focusing on telepsychiatry, cancer care, and end-of-life support. She mentors young mental health professionals and advocates holistic formation for youth and families through Kalinangan Youth Foundation and Educhild Philippines.

Mr. Edwin Lopez

President EWTN Global Catholic Network

Mr. Edwin is a seasoned Catholic media executive and pastoral communication expert with over 25 years of service to the global Church, especially across Asia Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania. He currently leads EWTN’s international media mission in the region and holds key roles including President of Eternal Word Foundation, Trustee of TV Maria, and Professor at San Carlos Seminary and Don Bosco School of Theology. He actively collaborates with the CBCP Media Office and the Catholic Media Network, advancing faith-based broadcasting and formation.

Dr. Michele Alignay 

Psychologist - Speaker – Author

Dr. Michele is a licensed psychologist, guidance counselor, speaker, and award-winning author specializing in family life, mental health, and digital parenting. With a Ph.D. in Family Studies and over 25 years of psycho-educational experience, she integrates theology, psychology, and practical wisdom in her work. She serves as Director of the Light of Jesus Pastoral Care Center, teaches at Miriam College and Don Bosco Theological Seminary, and actively advocates for holistic formation through writing, consulting, and community engagement.

Mr. Francisco “Cocoy” Claravall

VP for Wholesale at Globe Business

Mr. Francisco is the Vice President for Wholesale at Globe Business, with over 30 years of leadership in technology, sales, and digital transformation. He has empowered over 100,000 Philippine enterprises through innovation in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and enterprise solutions. A strategic partner to global tech firms, he also serves on the boards of CCAP and Adspark, and teaches at San Carlos Seminary. Beyond business, he is a servant leader in Couples for Christ and directs the Koro Salesiano choir at Don Bosco Santa Rosa.