On September 14, 2024, the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Region VIII Annual Regional Assembly took place at the LNU HRDC Gym in Tacloban City, Leyte. With the theme “Pilgrims and Agents of Hope: Embracing Synodality,” the event focused on collaboration, listening, and shared missions in Catholic education. It brought together educators and leaders from various Catholic institutions, marking a significant occasion for the Catholic education sector.
This year’s assembly was particularly meaningful for the Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception (FCIC) in Baybay, Leyte, as the institution celebrated two major highlights. The first was the election of Sister Mary Michael G. Bactong, OSF, Ph.D., Ed., the School President of FCIC, as Vice-Trustee of CEAP Region VIII. Sister Mary Michael’s election to this key leadership position is a moment of pride for the entire FCIC community. Her election reflects her dedication to Catholic education in the region and underscores the trust and respect she has earned among her peers.
As the newly elected Vice-Trustee, Sister Mary Michael will collaborate with other CEAP leaders to shape the policies and direction of Catholic education within the region. Her leadership will contribute to ensuring core values such as compassion, integrity, and service remain at the heart of educational development. Her role will also involve working closely with various Catholic institutions to foster intellectual growth, alongside the moral and spiritual development essential to forming holistic, faith-driven students and educators.
In addition to this notable election, FCIC was recognized for having the largest delegation at the assembly. The institution sent a group of 26 participants, including faculty, administrators, staff, OSF Sisters, and student representatives from both Basic Education and Higher Education. This large delegation, which traveled from Baybay City to Tacloban City, highlights FCIC’s dedication to the goals and mission of CEAP. The award for the largest delegation emphasizes FCIC’s proactive stance on professional development and the importance the institution places on collaboration with other Catholic educators in the region.
FCIC’s strong presence at the assembly demonstrates the school’s commitment to advancing Catholic education, not just within its own institution but across the entire region. By sending the largest group of participants, FCIC affirmed its role as a leading institution in Catholic education, dedicated to fostering a community of faith, service, and academic excellence.
One of the highlights of the assembly was the keynote presentation by Dr. Reuben Velarde, AVP for Business Development and a renowned edtech consultant, who delivered a talk titled “Leveraging AI for Meaningful Learning.” Dr. Velarde shared innovative strategies on how artificial intelligence (AI) can be effectively integrated into educational practices to enhance learning while preserving the human connection central to Catholic education. He emphasized that while AI has great potential, it should always complement the relationships that form the foundation of meaningful education.
Other notable speakers included Congressman Jude A. Acidre, RD Evelyn R. Fetalvero, CESO IV, and Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre. Their discussions, facilitated by Rev. Fr. Merwin L. Kangleon, delved into how Catholic educators can foster greater collaboration and unity within schools, ensuring that each student’s voice is heard and valued. The speakers reiterated the vital role Catholic education plays in fostering hope and faith, especially in challenging times.
The assembly began with a Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Msgr. Gilbert G. Urbina, S.Th.D., S.L.L., setting a solemn tone for the day. This Mass served as a poignant reminder of the sacred responsibility Catholic educators hold — to nurture the intellects and souls of their students, guiding them to become compassionate individuals.
As the assembly concluded, FCIC’s participation and involvement stood out. Sister Mary Michael’s election as Vice-Trustee and the recognition of FCIC for having the largest delegation were clear indicators of the school’s leadership and active participation in the region. These honors reflect FCIC’s ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant, faith-filled educational environment that prepares students to become agents of positive change.
The 2024 CEAP Region VIII Assembly was not just a gathering of educators but a reflection of the shared journey Catholic schools undertake to inspire future generations through faith, education, and service.
