26/08/2026
๐ฆ๐๐ ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ ๐ฆ๐ฐ๐ต๐ผ๐ผ๐น ๐ถ๐ป ๐๐๐๐ฃ 6 ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ด๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐ฎ๐น ๐๐๐๐ฒ๐บ๐ฏ๐น๐
Carrying the voice of St. Josephโs Academy of Malinao, Aklan, Inc., five student leaders joined Catholic educators, school administrators, and youth representatives from across Western Visayas at the opening of the 2026 CEAP Region VI Regional Assembly on August 24-25 at the Ateneo de Iloilo Auditorium, Atria Park, Iloilo City.
Representing SJA were SSLG President Chrisly Ijalo, SSLG Treasurer Mikaela Yerro, SSLG Auditor Wendy Lyn Patricio, SSLG Protocol Officer John Carmelo Nacion, and SSLG Grade 10 Representative Carmelo Andaya, accompanied by their adviser, Ms. Gyla Eureka Domingo.
Carrying the theme, โRe-imagining Pathways of Hope for Catholic Education in Region 6,โ the two-day assembly brought together members of the Catholic education community to reflect on their shared mission and explore pathways toward a more hopeful future for learners and schools. The event is being held on August 24โ25 in Iloilo City.
The first day commenced with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Most Rev. Cyril B. Villareal, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of Kalibo, setting a reflective tone for the assembly. In his homily, Bishop Villareal centered his reflection on the parable of the fig tree, drawing attention to its message of growth, patience, and bearing fruit.
Following the celebration, the opening program featured a presentation by Ateneo de Iloilo, welcome remarks, the presentation of participants, and a regional context presentation.
The assembly then proceeded to the keynote address, โNewness in Catholic Education: Illuminating Pathways of Hope,โ delivered by Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph L. Arre, followed by an open forum that allowed participants to engage with the insights presented.
In the afternoon, Dr. Reinz Christian C. Argao delivered a session entitled โBeyond the Screens: Understanding the Hearts and Minds of Todayโs Learners,โ highlighting the need to understand the experiences and realities of todayโs generation of learners.
The day concluded with the Recognition of Jubilarians and a closing prayer, marking the end of the first day of the regional gathering.
For the SJA delegates, the assembly served as an opportunity to participate in conversations surrounding Catholic education, leadership, and the formation of young people, bringing home insights that may further strengthen student leadership and service within the school community.
Words by: Chrisly Joy Ijalo
Photo by: Gyla Eureka Domingo