Seminarians from the Dioceses of Bacolod, San Carlos, and Kabankalan gathered at Sacred Heart Seminary today, January 28, for a philosophical symposium facilitated by Fr. Jose Rene C. Delariarte, OSA, President of Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod. A scholar renowned for his academic rigor and deep theological insight, Fr. Delariarte delivered a lecture on the Theory of Knowing/Cognition, offering a profound exploration of cognition through the perspectives of two great philosophical minds: St. Thomas Aquinas and Bernard Lonergan.
Drawing from decades of experience as a lecturer and director at the Saint Thomas of Villanova Institute of Philosophy (San Agustin Center for Studies), Fr. Delariarte enriched the discussion with insights on Aristotle-Aquinas philosophical inquiry and an amplification of Lonergan’s Theory of Cognition. His lecture not only delved into the theoretical aspects of cognition but also illuminated its practical applications in the formation and pastoral work of seminarians, fostering a balance of intellectual rigor and spiritual depth essential for future Church leaders.
CSAB takes pride in the academic achievements of its School President, which provided the foundation for the symposium’s depth and impact. Fr. Delariarte holds a Baccalaureatus in Philosophiae (Magna cum Laude) (1992) and an AB in Classical Philosophy (Cum Laude) (1995). He completed advanced studies, earning a Licentiate in Philosophy (Magna cum Laude) from the Ecclesiastical Faculties of UST, Manila, and a Master of Arts in Philosophy (With Distinction) from Ateneo de Manila University. His post-graduate studies at Regis College, University of Toronto, Canada, significantly expanded his expertise in philosophy and theology.
Fr. Delariarte’s dedication to advancing philosophical discourse continues to inspire religious (and lay) individuals, reaffirming the vital role of philosophy in shaping seminarians’ journeys toward the priesthood while strengthening their intellectual and spiritual formation.
