Breaking grounds in healing: Communitails hosts 2nd PHABCon at Ateneo

Driven by the philosophy that healing is a shared journey between humans and animals, pioneering nonprofit social enterprise Communitails Inc. holds the 2nd Philippine Human-Animal Bond Conference on May 30, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Leong Hall, Ateneo de Manila University.

PHABCon 2026 brought  together more than 200 professionals, researchers, students, and animal welfare advocates exploring the transformative, evidence-based applications of Animal-Assisted Services in clinical, educational, and workplace environments. The event aims to advance the human-animal bond through research, practice, and advocacy.

While traditional views often position animals merely as tools for human comfort, Communitails aims to shift the paradigm toward an ethical, reciprocal relationship.

“The key takeaway that we want participants to get from PHABCon is that healing is really mutual. It is not just one way,” Communitails Program Manager Danielle Marie “Denden” Parreño explained.

This approach guides Communitails’ vision to remain the leading professional Animal-Assisted Services organization in the Philippines, championing structured, safe, and ethical human-animal partnerships.

The conference dates carry deep institutional meaning for Communitails. It marks the birthday of the organization’s late founder, Dr. Carla A. Azucena, who established Communitails in 2016 alongside a group of friends passionate about the therapeutic potential of animals.

Though Dr. Azucena passed away from lung cancer in 2018 at the age of 31, the continuation of PHABCon serves as a direct tribute to her legacy of kindness and systemic advocacy.

Unlike the inaugural PHABCon held virtually in July 2022 during the height of the pandemic, PHABCon 2026 transitions fully to an onsite, interactive experience.

Attendees  have met certified Human-Animal Teams (HATs) like Andrew & Hermoso and Ann & Parka, who embody the practical, day-to-day deployment of AAS in community and care settings.

The event also features 12 peer-reviewed poster presentations covering research studies, program initiatives, case studies, and community-based projects. Outstanding contributions will be recognized during the event with the Best Poster Awards and cash prizes.

Participants has also accessed exclusive PHABCon merchandise which will be available onsite at Leong Hall strictly on a first-come, first-served basis, with pricing revealed during the event.

PHABCon 2026 is sponsored by Royal Canin Foundation, Mariwala Health Initiative, Pet Food Institute, Boehringer Ingelheim, Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, Ateneo and NCMH.