With the theme of "Catholicity, Spirituality, and Advocacy," the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) launched its highly anticipated 2024 National Advocacy Summit on April 4-5 at Escaler Hall, Ateneo de Manila University.
The Summit began with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration led by His Excellency Most Rev. Pablo Virgilio S. David, D.D., President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). In his homily, Bishop David urged CEAP to embrace its pivotal role in Catholic education, drawing parallels to angels guiding believers to the risen Christ during Easter.
Following the spiritual commencement, Fr. Roberto C. Yap, SJ, welcomed hundreds of attendees, including school leaders, administrators, and advocates from various regions. CEAP President Fr. Albert N. Delo delivered a compelling opening address, stressing the imperative of collaboration among Catholic higher educational institutions in today's evolving landscape.
Fr. Wilmer S. Tria, CEAP Corporate Secretary, and National Advocacy Chairperson, set the tone for substantive discussions, urging participants to confront pressing national issues affecting Filipino communities.
In the first plenary session, Prof. Noreen Sapalo of UP Diliman emphasized the urgent need for advocacy, highlighting the transformative potential of young leaders in shaping societal change.
Most Rev. Gerardo Alminaza, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of San Carlos, shared insightful anecdotes from his advocacy journey, focusing on the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and fostering ecological citizenship.
Ms. Rhodora Angela F. Ferrer, Executive Director of the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC), underscored the importance of bridging the gap between public and private schools and promoting social awareness and responsibility among students.
On the second day, Br. Noelvic H. Deloria, SC, presented discussion points for reflection, followed by a CEAP NAC regional consultation to ensure the representation of all Catholic schools in advocacy campaigns at regional and national levels.
The consultation focused on local advocacies, including environmental awareness, indigenous communities, and public health. It emphasized the role of Catholic education in fostering an advocacy culture and raising awareness on important issues. The CEAP has always spearheaded social action on these issues and has included them in the pillar programs for Transformative Education, also known as the CEAP JEEPGY Program (Justice and Peace, Engaged Citizenship, Environmental Education, Poverty Alleviation, Gender Equality and Youth Empowerment).
The 2024 National Advocacy Summit ended with meaningful talks during the regional consultations, reflecting CEAP's dedication to transformative education. The event stressed the importance of educators taking practical steps alongside advocacy to foster sustainable development and societal change.