Saint Louis University (SLU) and the Diocese of Baguio Schools warmly welcomed the delegates of the 2025 Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines-Cordillera Administrative Region (CEAP-CAR) Regional Assembly on 04 September at the Prince Bernhard Gym, SLU Main Campus. Themed “Living Synodality as Pilgrims of Hope,” the two-day assembly has brought together Catholic educators, administrators, teachers, parents, students, alumni members, and advocates to deepen their commitment to synodality that is fostered by dialogue, listening, as well as communal and cultural wisdom.
The gathering commenced with an opening Eucharistic celebration that set the tone for the assembly’s program led by Rev. Fr. Roland P. Buyagan, Diocesan Vicar General, and with co-celebrant, the Most Reverend Charlie M. Inzon, OMI, Bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Jolo and chairperson of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Episcopal Commission on Catholic Education.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Buyagan said, “I believe our shared reflections are found within the crafted theme — ‘Living Synodality as Pilgrims of Hope.’ The mission of Catholic Education is ‘to put out into the deep water and let down our nets for our catch…’ Let us continue to do our part in the spirit of a true Catholic educator. Remember that formation bears fruit; mission schools would bear fruit.”
The formal opening featured the ceremonial entrance of banners. The symbolic event featured the CEAP-CAR member schools and the CEAP-CAR regional assembly, including esteemed guests and keynote speakers. The assembly’s participants represent the following jurisdictions:
- The Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe Educational System (AVBLES) – Ifugao;
- The Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk Schools (AVTS) – Kalinga;
- The Congregational and Family-Owned Schools; and
- The Diocese of Baguio Schools (DOBS).
The Entrance of Colors then took place, followed by the opening prayer and the Philippine National Anthem led by the SLU Center for Culture and the Arts (CCA) Glee Club. The CEAP Hymn was also sung, interpreted by the SLU Dance Troupe, fostering a spirit of unity and purpose.
Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, Regional Trustee of CEAP-CAR and SLU President, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the shared mission to enrich Catholic education in the region through synodality. “Our journey as Catholic Educators is not a solitary path but a shared pilgrimage, walking together in faith, dialogue, and hope. This assembly invites us to embrace synodality not just as a concept but as a lived reality in schools, families, and communities. Together, we are co-pilgrims, each bringing our unique gifts and perspectives, working hand in hand to embody the church’s mission in this shared world. Welcome and may the Holy Spirit guide our time together,” Fr. Gilbert said.
This was followed by the opening remarks from Rev. Fr. Marlon M. Urmaza, Council Member of the Diocese of Baguio-Schools (DoBS) and representative of the host diocese. He expressed optimism that the conference will provide the encounter with Christ, and consequently, an exchange of ideas looking forward to the endeavors of the schools, especially in the education of the next generation of our students, “the future leaders of our country.”
Further, an inspirational message from Rev. Fr. Karel S. San Juan, SJ, president of CEAP, ushered in a deeper understanding of CEAP’s programs and advocacies, particularly in the Cordillera region. “Here in CAR, feel and know that you are part of a big community, our large association of CEAP – the largest organization in the Philippines of Catholic schools of more than 1,500 members. So when we meet here, know that you are cared for and prayed for because we are a community together praying,” he said.
Fr. San Juan told the participants, “Our goal is to make Catholic education stronger in the Philippines and you are a part of that big mission. Altogether, the CAR region constitutes the hope in our constitution, in Catholic education, in our teachers and students, hope in our families and in our alumni. When we speak, our voice is heard because we have the power to influence. We have power that is rooted in faith, and we would like to use that influence in the transformation of education and society in the Philippines. This is essentially our hope in Christ. Let us nurture and fight for this hope in CEAP, in CAR. Agyaman ak!”
Mr. Narcy F. Ador Dionisio, CEAP Executive Director, then shared updates on the association’s initiatives and progress through the Executive Director’s Report. He revealed that the strategic direction of CEAP for the next three years (2025-2028) will focus on five domains: Educational Leadership and Policy Influence, Organizational Development and Governance, Advocacy and Formation, Systemic Support and Capacity Building, and Community Engagement and Impact Assessment. His report included insights into various CEAP projects, including advocacies and external impact, and transformative education, among others. His presentation emphasized how CEAP holds on to the promise of hope: “that the visions we cherish, the ideals we live by, and the quiet beauty that stirs our hearts are never in vain, for every step taken in faith will not betray. Your CEAP is here and CEAP runs in our blood,” he said in assurance.
Following the opening ceremonies are talks and breakout sessions; these and other activities will continue until tomorrow, 5 September 2025.
