Quezon City – The CBCP-ECCE held a strategic meeting on April 29, 2026, at the CEAP National Office from 9:00 to 11:00 AM.
The gathering commenced with a meeting led by Archbishop Gilbert A. Garcera, CBCP President, together with Fr. Bryand Restituto, CBCP Assistant Secretary General; Fr. Vladimir M. Echalas, SOLT, CBCP Research Committee Head; and Fr. Miguel Samaniego, CBCP Human Resources Department Head. Also present were Fr. Raymond Joseph L. Arre, ECCE Executive Secretary; Fr. Karel S. San Juan, SJ, CEAP President; and Mr. Narcy F. Ador Dionisio, CEAP Executive Director, who actively participated in the strategic discussions on Catholic education.
The first part of the meeting focused on the ongoing programs of CBCP-ECCE, with discussions centered on strengthening synergy among members and clarifying the commission’s role in contributing to the Church’s vision toward 2033, the Jubilee of Redemption. The body revisited the functions of the commission as outlined in its statutes, particularly in relation to policy studies, educational research, coordination with educational associations, support for Catholic schools, and fostering dialogue within and beyond the Church.
The discussion also touched on long-term strategic planning, including preparations for the 2028 national elections, recognizing the important role of Catholic schools in the formation of young people. Participants likewise discussed strengthening institutional linkages, theological school concerns, and promoting synodality as a guiding framework for Catholic education.
The second part of the meeting featured a dialogue between CBCP-ECCE and CEAP. During the discussion, Fr. Karel S. San Juan, SJ, shared key learnings from his participation in the Jubilee Year of Education 2025 and presented the thematic direction of the 2026 CEAP National Convention, anchored on Gravissimum Educationis and Drawing New Maps of Hope, the recent Apostolic Letter of Pope Leo XIV.
The exchange also provided an opportunity to discuss shared advocacies and the continuing partnership among CEAP, CBCP, and ECCE in advancing mission-centered Catholic education across the country.
The meeting concluded with a meaningful reflection on the Church’s journey toward 2033, encouraging participants to consider the role of Catholic education in contributing to this important milestone. The discussion highlighted the continuing need for discernment, collaboration, and shared commitment in strengthening Catholic education’s mission in the years ahead.
