SVD Postulancy

By: Post. Peter M. Madres

Postulancy is an extension of Philosophy—indeed, an application of it. My belief in their connection stems from Socrates’ timeless maxim: “An unexamined life is not worth living.” While Philosophy analyzes ultimate truth in the abstract, Postulancy delves into the ultimate truth of oneself. Both are journeys of discovery; both lead to the innermost core of one’s being.

Having graduated with a degree in Philosophy as the class valedictorian, I was encouraged by many to pursue a master’s degree before entering postulancy. Surprisingly, I did—not in the classroom, though, but in practice. I am now in the practical application of philosophy: thirsting for wisdom, seeking the ultimate truth of my own being, and learning to master myself.

Classroom philosophy is merely an introduction to a much larger room: the world. Philosophy must expand! As Cardinal Advincula beautifully expressed during our Baccalaureate Mass last May 30, 2026: “As graduates of philosophy, tapos na ang katanungan at sagutan. Oras na para magmahalan.”¹ Postulancy is precisely that time—to love the wounded yet authentic self, to ask deeper questions about one’s reality, and to catch the “thrown self” with deep compassion. This is philosophizing. This is philosophy in action.

Ultimately, this reflection echoes the core of my undergraduate thesis at Divine Word Mission Seminary (DWMS): Pumasok sa Loob! Enter into the innermost being! It is there that one finds self-truth, freed from illusions and shadows. In this way, Postulancy acts as an “archaeological brush,” gently uncovering the treasure within

1. “As graduates of philosophy, the questioning and answering are over. It is now the time to love.” ↩︎