Quezon City – Some leaders and representatives of Catholic education in Asia convened online on January 14, 2026, for a preparatory meeting to advance discussions on the formation of OIEC Asia and Oceania and its proposed first physical gathering in Manila in March 2026. The meeting served as an important initial step toward strengthening regional collaboration, reflecting the broader ongoing partnership between CEAP and OIEC in advocacy and initiatives that support Catholic education in the region.
The meeting was led by Fr. Alain P. Manalo, OIEC Vice President for Asia, and convened with Mr. Hervé Lecomte, OIEC Secretary General; Fr. Alvin Ho, SJ (Malaysia); Mr. Brian De Rozario, General Secretary of the Malaysian Catholic Education Council; Mr. Asher Javaid, Executive Director of the Pakistan National Catholic Education Commission; and Mr. Jyoti Gomes, Executive Director of the Bangladesh Catholic Education Board.
Discussions centered on initial inputs for the drafting of regional statutes or bylaws and on shaping the general framework of the Manila meeting. Participants acknowledged challenges in convening all member countries but agreed to move forward with those ready to collaborate, while continuing efforts to engage others. Key learning themes identified included Catholic school standards, safeguarding, peace and interiority, and artificial intelligence in Catholic education.
The meeting highlighted the importance of fraternity, synodal dialogue, and shared learning as foundations for regional cooperation. For CEAP and Catholic education in the Philippines, the initiative reflects a continuing commitment to support regional dialogue and to share Philippine experiences in standards, formation, and safeguarding with the wider Asian and global Catholic education community.