On November 21, 2024, the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) held its National Convention Press Conference at the SMX Convention Center, Lanang, Davao City, under the theme "Pilgrims and Agents of Hope: Embracing Synodality." The event served as a platform for discussing key issues in private education, government policies, and the sector's role in shaping the nation, especially with the upcoming 2025 Midterm Elections.

 

The conference opened with remarks from Mr. Jose Allan I. Arellano, CEAP Executive Director, who highlighted the theme’s significance in the context of Catholic education in the Philippines. He set the tone by addressing critical challenges faced by private education, emphasizing the need for collaboration and support from both public and private sectors.

 

Fr. Albert N. Delvo, Ph.D., Chairperson of COCOPEA and CEAP President, discussed the decline in student enrollment, partly due to the rising costs of living and the appeal of free public education. He outlined strategies to address this, including financial aid, scholarships, and blended learning. Fr. Delvo also raised concerns about teacher migration to public schools and called for government support through initiatives like the Teacher Salary Subsidy (TSS).

 

Fr. Mauricio T. Ulep, Vice President of CEAP, emphasized the importance of government programs such as GASTPE in supporting private education. He stressed the need for more timely disbursements, transparency, and increased funding to enhance the partnership between public and private education.

 

Br. Edmundo L. Fernandez, FSC, CEAP Treasurer, discussed the need for stronger public-private partnerships to improve educational outcomes. He advocated for sharing resources and collaborating effectively to meet the needs of students.

 

Atty. Sabino Padilla IV, CEAP Legal Counsel, shifted focus to the regulatory and policy environment, highlighting how certain policies, while beneficial, could strain private schools. He mentioned the potential challenges posed by the mandatory ROTC and tuition fee regulation proposals, particularly for smaller schools with limited resources.

 

Fr. Wilmer S. Tria, Corporate Secretary of CEAP, concluded the presentations by reflecting on the role of education in the 2025 Midterm Elections. He urged the education sector to promote values such as discernment, compassion, and justice, stressing the importance of prioritizing education in shaping the nation's future.

 

The 2024 CEAP National Convention Press Conference provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for Catholic and private education in the Philippines. The discussions highlighted the need for collaboration, government support, and a continued commitment to Catholic-based education, with the hope that private schools will remain agents of hope and positive change in society.

 

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