The four-day Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) National Convention 2025 brought together thousands of Catholic school leaders, administrators, faculty, and staff from across the country at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, from September 30 to October 3, 2025. Considered the largest gathering of Catholic educators in the Philippines, the annual event served as a celebration of faith, community, and the shared mission of Catholic education.
Lasallian administrators, faculty, and staff from the De La Salle Philippines (DLSP) network were among the participants. This reflects the strong commitment of Lasallian schools to the broader mission of Catholic education. Representing De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) were Br. Iñigo Riola FSC, University President, and Dr. George Francisco, University Provost.
The convention opened with a Eucharistic celebration presided by Jose Cardinal Advincula, Archbishop of Manila, followed by the formal opening ceremonies. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle delivered the keynote address on “Living Synodality as Pilgrims of Hope.” In his speech, he explained that synodality is about walking humbly with God, embracing human freedom, and respecting cultural diversity.
On Day 2, a Eucharistic celebration led by Bishop Elias Ayuban Jr. of Cubao preceded plenary and concurrent sessions on Catholic identity, mission, and current social issues. A highlight was the announcement of the newly elected CEAP Trustees-at-Large for 2025–2028, which included Br. Edmundo “Dodo” Fernandez FSC, President of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, De La Salle Lipa, and La Salle Green Hills, and a trustee of DLSU-D.
The convention concluded on Day 3 with the announcement of the new CEAP officers, a synthesis of discussions, and a closing Eucharistic celebration presided by the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Charles Brown.
Reflecting on DLSU-D’s participation, Br. Iñigo shared: “DLSU-D is a proud member of CEAP and believes in the importance of Catholic education and the network that CEAP sustains. As Pope Francis reminded us, education is never the work of one institution alone; it flourishes through collaboration, solidarity, and shared responsibility.”