November 13, 2025 marked a historic moment for Xavier School Nuvali as the community gathered for the solemn blessing of four remarkable new facilities made possible through the generosity of distinguished Xaverian alumni. The event honored the legacies of Mr. Johnlu Koa, Mr. Willy Ocier, Mr. Greg Yu, and Mr. Jack Ng, whose enduring commitment to education, service, and nation-building continues to illuminate the path for future generations of Xaverians.
These newly blessed spaces—the French Baker Dining Hall, Willy and Geraldine Ocier Garden of Matteo Ricci, Gotuaco–Yu Mini Theatre, and the Joy-Nostalg Aula—stand not only as functional additions to campus life but as living testaments to what it means to be “persons for others.”
Hosted by Mr. Paolo Almeida, the afternoon program brought together administrators, benefactors, teachers, parents, and students in a celebration rooted in gratitude and mission.
A Celebration of Community and Mission
The event opened with a prayer led by Fr. Art Borja, SJ, grounding the community in thanksgiving and purpose. In his Welcome Remarks, Fr. Joseph Y. Haw, SJ, School President, expressed deep appreciation for the generosity of the donors and emphasized that these facilities will form part of the school’s ongoing mission of developing students who are “fully alive, endowed with a passion for justice, and the skills for development.”
Mr. Johnip Cua, Chairman of the Xavier School Inc. Board of Trustees, echoed the same gratitude in his message, reminding everyone that the school thrives because of the profound generosity and loyalty of its alumni.
Honoring the Donors
A highlight of the program was the series of heartfelt messages delivered by the benefactors:
- Mr. Johnlu Koa, donor of the French Baker Dining Hall, shared the inspiration behind giving back to the institution that shaped his early life.
- Mr. Willy Ocier, donor of the Willy and Geraldine Ocier Garden of Matteo Ricci, spoke about building spaces that promote peace, reflection, and connection with nature.
- Mr. Greg Yu, donor of the Gotuaco–Yu Mini Theatre, reflected on the power of creativity and the importance of nurturing students’ artistic and innovative spirit.
- Mr. Jack Ng, donor of the Joy-Nostalg Aula, emphasized the value of creating spaces where the community can gather, celebrate, and grow together.
Each message was met with warm applause—an expression of the deep gratitude felt by the entire Xavier School Nuvali community.
Blessing of the Four New Facilities
Led by Fr. Joseph Haw, SJ, the blessing began at the French Baker Dining Hall, where the Xavier Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe accompanied the rites. The community then proceeded to the Willy and Geraldine Ocier Garden of Matteo Ricci, followed by the Gotuaco–Yu Mini Theatre, before concluding at the Joy-Nostalg Aula.
In each venue, the donors and their families joined the school leadership for a commemorative photo, symbolizing partnership, shared mission, and Xaverian unity.
A Student’s Heartfelt Message of Gratitude
Before the community gathered for light refreshments, a Grade 12 student delivered a moving message of appreciation on behalf of the student body—one that resonated deeply with all present:
“In Xavier, we always say ‘Let your light shine.’ I would like to share with you something I read on social media:
‘Let your light shine—not others through you. Instead, let your light shine so that through you, others will see God.’
Through the generous donations of alumni like you, students like me have been able to let our light shine so that we can spread it all around the world.”
His words captured the essence of the day—that the generosity shown by these alumni empowers every Xavier student to become a beacon of hope, service, and excellence.
A Celebration of Generosity and Fellowship
The gathering concluded with an afternoon of warm fellowship at the newly blessed Joy-Nostalg Aula, with delightful refreshments graciously prepared by The French Baker. Faculty, administrators, benefactors, and students enjoyed conversations filled with gratitude, vision, and pride for what the school continues to achieve.
Carrying the Mission Forward
The blessing of these four facilities marks a new chapter in Xavier School Nuvali’s growth—not merely in infrastructure but in mission, spirit, and community. These spaces will touch countless lives, shaping young Xaverians who will one day return, just like the donors honored today, to give back and let their own light shine even brighter.
To Mr. Johnlu Koa, Mr. Willy Ocier, Mr. Greg Yu, and Mr. Jack Ng—
Thank you for living out the Xaverian spirit of generosity, leadership, and service.
Your legacy will continue to form students who will carry the Xavier mission into the world.
Luceat Lux—may the light of Xavier always shine.
