“Hindi lang ito history book ng ISO, kundi kasaysayan ng buong social movements sa buong Pilipinas… Nandito ‘yung labor, nandito ‘yung farmers, mga urban poor, mga fisherfolks at iba pang mga communities.”
This was part of the speech of Dr. Fabian Dayrit, ISO Board Chair, last November 15, 2024 at the launch of the ISO’s anniversary book, ISO Over the Years. The launch celebrated the rich legacy and the invaluable influence of ISO on the formation of organizations and movements throughout its 75 years of existence. This commemorative publication honors the foundations laid in social justice and development, reflecting ISO’s ongoing mission.
“Ito pong aklat na ito ay naglalaman, hindi lamang ng mga karanasan ng ISO as a social development institution, kundi ‘yung mga organisasyon at indibidwal po na sa ilang panahon ay naging kabahagi ng aming pagtugon sa tawag ng pagpapalaganap ng katarungang nakabatay sa pananampalataya.” – Dr. Liza L. Lim
ISO Executive Director Dr. Liza Lim welcomed the guests and provided an overview of the book, emphasizing its role as an inspirational resource. She highlighted the organization’s history and how the book captures the enduring impact of ISO’s work in promoting social justice in various sectors, from labor, the urban poor, farmers, and fishers.
Dr. Mary Racelis also paid tribute to ISO’s founders, honoring their vision and dedication, which continue to inspire and guide the Institute’s efforts today.
The featured partner organizations—Federation of Free Workers (FFW), Federation of Free Farmers (FFF), San Dionisio Credit Cooperative (SDCC), Zone One Tondo Organization (ZOTO), Samahan ng Mangingisda ng Penitan (SMP), and Poro Sea Lovers Association (PSLA)—expressed their heartfelt gratitude for being included on the book. Each organization reflected on their partnership with ISO and the significant impact of their collective work in promoting social justice and community empowerment.
Students of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology of the Ateneo de Manila University also attended the event, sharing their experiences and how their training in sociology and anthropology equipped them to document the transformative stories of the organizations they worked with.
Download a copy of the book here: https://instisocialorderph.org/stories-and-publications/publications/
Institute of Social Order 