08/10/2026
Embracing Newness, Charting Hope: SPUI at CEAP SUGBU 2026
Saint Paul University Iloilo (SPUI) actively participated in the recently concluded CEAP National Convention SUGBU 2026, held in Cebu City, with the theme “Newness in Catholic Education: Charting a Constellation of Hope.”
The convention brought together Catholic educators, school leaders, administrators, faculty members, and education stakeholders from across the country to reflect on the continuing renewal of Catholic education and its mission in a rapidly changing world. Representing SPUI were Sr. Teresita C. Baricaua, SPC, University President; Sr. Mercedes D. Bacaoco, SPC, Vice President for Christian Formation; Dr. Ariel Sudario, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Elsie B. Tedoco, College of HRM, Tourism & Nutrition and Dietetics (CHTN); Ms. Dulce MA. S. Tilos, RN, Dean of the College of Nursing (CON); Mr. Kent Frederick G. Gole, Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences and Education (CASE); Ms. Louise Marie Sison, Faculty, College of Rehabilitation Sciences (CRS); Ms. Mary Grace P. Araneta, Director of Management Information Systems (MIS); Ms. Ces Sarria-Amular, Director of Quality Assurance (QA); and Mr. Jose de Luna, Director of Innovation, Planning, Assessment and Audit (IPAA).
The convention centered on the idea of “newness” in Catholic education, challenging institutions to look beyond simply improving existing practices and to discern what must be fundamentally rethought in order to remain faithful and relevant to the mission of Catholic education. Discussions touched on significant emerging concerns, including artificial intelligence and digital transformation, integral human and faith formation, youth engagement and leadership, synodality and collaborative leadership, parent-school partnerships, social responsibility and service, truth and responsible communication, safe and inclusive learning environments, and the continuing need to integrate faith, culture, academic excellence, and innovation. A recurring message throughout the convention was that genuine newness is not merely technological or structural. It is fundamentally about renewing the way Catholic educational institutions understand their mission, accompany learners, engage communities, and respond to the realities of contemporary society.
The call to become a “constellation of hope” underscored the importance of communion, collaboration, creativity, and shared responsibility in shaping the future of Catholic education.
For SPUI, participation in SUGBU 2026 provided a valuable opportunity for listening, learning, dialogue, and discernment as the University continues its own journey of institutional transformation. The insights gained from the convention can contribute to SPUI's continuing efforts to strengthen its Catholic identity and mission while pursuing innovation, academic excellence, internationalization, digital transformation, social responsibility, and meaningful responsiveness to the needs of today's learners and society.
The SPUI delegation returns from SUGBU 2026 with a renewed appreciation that the newness of Catholic education is ultimately a newness of mission, mindset, relationships, and hope—a continuing invitation to reimagine education while remaining deeply rooted in the Gospel, the Paulinian tradition, and the Filipino context.
Caritas Christi Urget Nos! ⚜⚜⚜
