On September 14, 2024, CEAP Region 8 held its annual Regional Assembly at Leyte Normal University, HRDC Gym, with the theme “Pilgrims and Agents of Hope: Embracing Synodality.”

 

The opening Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Rev. Msgr. Gilbert G. Urbina, S.Th.D, S.L.I., the Vicar General of Archdiocese of Palo. Simultaneously, the day of the assembly was celebrated on the same day as the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. With this, his homily centered around having hope despite suffering, Highlighting how hard work bears good fruit for the glory of God and salvation.

 

Rev. Fr. Rey Anthony P. Navidad, Ph.D., CEAP Region 8 Trustee, delivered the welcome address during the Assembly to the keynote speakers, esteemed guests, and delegates. He also gave an overview of the program for the day. This was followed by Rev. Fr. Albert N. Delvo, Ph.D., CEAP President, who gave his message focusing on advocating to promote Catholic values through synodality, always being ready to listen to others, and discerning through prayer. Fr. Albert also shared highlights and accomplishments of the CEAP and COCOPEA during the last few months. 

 

Keynote speakers discussed public service & leadership styles, school administration, and Diocesan Spirituality of Catholic Parochial Schools.

 

Cong. Jude A. Acidre, representative of Tingog Partylist and Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, shared the importance of Christian values in leadership, highlighting how Catholic Social Teachings, through the values of openness, compassion, and charity bridge the gaps of brokenness for development.

 

Ms. Evelyn R. Fetalvero, the Regional Director of the Department of Education-Region VIII urges the participants to embrace the spirit of synodality. She features the importance of faith, and vision, creating safe spaces of listening and dialogue to become agents of hope, walking together in service and love.

 

Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre, Chair of CEAP Superintendents Conference, shared the importance of synodality in Catholic education through sharing the characteristics of a synodal educator–one that inspires and influences.

Another highlight of the event was the outstanding performance of the students across Region 8, demonstrating different cultural, folk, and modern dances here in the Philippines.

 

Lastly, Dr. Reuben P. Velarde Jr., the Assistant Vice President for Business and Development, Emerging Products and Programs under Phoenix Group of Companies shares different ways on how to integrate AI in enhancing the quality of education in schools to make teaching more interesting, engaging, and effective.

 

In summary, the CEAP VIII Regional Assembly successfully embraced the theme “Pilgrims and Agents of Hope: Embracing Synodality,” blending faith, leadership, and innovation, and promoting unity through shared values and vision.