BATAC CITY, Ilocos Norte — Catholic school leaders, administrators, and educators from across Region I and Abra gathered at Mariano Marcos State University on August 1 for the CEAP Region I + Abra Regional Assembly, reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing Catholic education under the theme, “Newness in Catholic Education: Charting a Constellation of Hope.”
The assembly opened with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Most Rev. Renato P. Mayugba, DD, Bishop of Laoag, followed by a motorcade and parade that symbolized the unity of Catholic educational institutions across the region.
Welcoming the delegates, CEAP Region I + Abra Regional Trustee Rev. Msgr. Manuel S. Bravo Jr. encouraged member schools to continue journeying together in strengthening Catholic education amid today’s evolving educational landscape.
In her message, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis underscored the vital role of Catholic schools in advancing Philippine higher education, noting that they continue to position the country in global academic rankings through excellence in education, research, innovation, and values formation.
Delivering the keynote address, Most Rev. Renato P. Mayugba, DD, emphasized that Catholic schools shine brightest when they work together in faith and mission. Reflecting on the assembly’s theme, he described Catholic education as “a hope that teaches, heals, and defends,” forming learners rooted in faith, building compassionate communities, accompanying the vulnerable, and courageously standing for truth, justice, and human dignity.
Echoing this call, CEAP President Fr. Karel S. San Juan, SJ, reflected on the Association’s 85-year journey of service and challenged Catholic educators to see themselves as part of a greater constellation of hope. He emphasized that, just as stars form a constellation, Catholic schools are strongest when united in their commitments to the Church and the nation.
Delegates also received updates on CEAP’s national priorities through the report of Executive Director Mr. Narcy F. Ador Dionisio. He highlighted the Association’s continuing advocacy with government agencies and education stakeholders on key initiatives, including education reforms, the Enhanced Araling Panlipunan Curriculum, Human Rights Education, Reproductive Health Education, the Enhanced Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (EGASTPE), and the Private Basic Education Voucher Program.
A highlight of the assembly was the presentation of the CEAP Region I + Abra Regional Council for 2026–2029. The newly installed council is headed by Regional Trustee Rev. Msgr. Manuel S. Bravo Jr., with Regional Vice Trustee Rev. Fr. Tito Romeo N. Bonoan, Secretary Dr. Everlita D. Nones, Treasurer Dr. Marili P. Juan, Mr. Jetrix A. Tenebro (Basic Education), Rev. Fr. Roberto J. Ibay, SVD (Tertiary Education), Rev. Fr. Edgar Calunod (Technical-Vocational Education), Rev. Fr. Erylle Emmanuelle T. Cordero (Advocacy), Rev. Fr. Melchor Joseph C. Braga (Christian Formation), Ms. Angelica Joy C. Marzo (Programs–JEEPGY), and Regional Coordinator Mr. Jesus R. Vargas.
The assembly concluded with a renewed commitment among Catholic educators to chart a “Constellation of Hope” by working together as communities of faith rather than isolated institutions. Guided by the vision of Catholic education as a hope that teaches, heals, and defends, delegates reaffirmed their shared mission to form learners who embody faith, compassion, justice, and hope while continuing CEAP’s service to both Church and country.
