The 61st ACSCU National Convention’s opening day was well-attended and engaging event that provided attendees with insightful presentations and discussions on relevant educational topics. An event spanning three days which opened on July 19 at the Adventist Convention Center at the SPUC Compound from noon to evening and featured notable speakers from the education field who shared their expertise and inspired attendees with innovative ideas on designing educational programs. The ACSCU also provided activity reports to showcase quality faith-based education playing a significant role in shaping students’ minds. 

Moreover,the convention emphasized the importance of mission and collaboration, highlighting the need for educators and administrators to come together to promote Christian education’s advancement. The opening ceremony included inspiring performances, prayers, and welcome remarks, stressing the importance of shared learning, fellowship, benchmarking, and commitment to pursuing the advancement of Christian education and God’s mission in the world.

The decision to hold the convention in Cagayan de Oro City with Dr. Alevir P. Pido and Dr. Pio D. Baconga, ACSCU board of trustee members as the lead hosts, also highlighted the region’s commitment to Christian education and its role in advancing educational missions across the country. As the convention continues, attendees can look forward to gaining more insights about the latest developments in quality assurance and finding new ways to advance their education missions and further their commitment to Christian education.

The 61st ACSCU National Convention commenced with a magnificent opening ceremony that celebrated learning, fellowship, and solidarity amid the challenges of 21st-century Christian education. The ceremony included inspiring choral renditions, heartfelt prayers, and welcome remarks by esteemed leaders, including Pr. Danielo D. Palomares, SPUC President; Dr. Pio D. Baconga, President & CEO of Pilgrim Christian College; and Atty. Roy Raagas, a representative of the office of the mayor of Cagayan De Oro City. They welcomed over 200 attendees and reiterated the importance of a shared commitment to pursuing the advancement of Christian education and God’s mission in the world. 

The convention’s goal is to address the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the educational mission of ACSCU member schools. The theme, “Leading Innovations for the 21st Century Education: Upholding our Mission, Designing Innovative Programs, and Committing to Quality Assurance,” inspired educators to respond to these dynamic challenges by sharing best practices and innovative ideas, promoting collaboration, and committing to quality assurance.

The annual Convention for members of the ACSCU kicked off in style with eminent speakers sharing their valuable insights with attendees. The opening ceremony was graced by prominent leaders such as Dr. Bienvenido G. Mergal, SSD Education Director, who challenged all educators to integrate faith and passion into their teaching style and instill love-infused teaching styles that prioritize collaboration, integrity, and competence. In her keynote address, Dr. Cynthia Rose Bautista, an esteemed UP Diliman Professor, provided attendees with a compelling talk on how technological and social advancements are causing a paradigm shift in the global education landscape. She spoke passionately about the need for educators to create adaptable and accessible curriculums that prepare students for a rapidly evolving world. 

Further, Retired Judge Benjamin D. Tugano, current ACSCU President, shared a timeline of the organization’s activities, including the creation of strategic and policy reforms and initiatives, aimed at uplifting the quality assurance for faith-based education.

However, Regional Chairpersons from various parts of the country, including Dr. Lucris Carina N. Agnir-Paraan from ACSCU North Luzon and Dr. Kathleen Guimbatan from ACSCU South Luzon, Dr. Earl Jude Cleope of ACSCU Visayas, and Dr. Dahlia Businos of ACSCU Mindanao. 

The event also featured presentations from institutional partners such as Rex Publishing and Quipper, showcasing their services for learning, coaching, and assessment.

One of the highlights of the event was the evening’s cultural and musical presentation by students from Adventist Medical Center College and Mountain View College, and faculty members from South Philippine Adventist College. The audience was treated to lively musical performances by the AMCC Chorale, Sons and Daughters Chorale Art Society, and the MVC Orchestra, and SPAC's My Redeemer Symphony.  These presentations added a touch of artistry and entertainment to the event, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attended.  

The opening day of the convention held at the SPUC Convention Center in Cagayan de Oro City left the attendees feeling a renewed sense of purpose, connectedness, and commitment to God’s call for Christian educators. 

This year’s convention is historic, marking the first time that the church headquarters (SPUC) in Mindanao is taking an active role in the event through its education department. This marks a significant move towards reaching out to prominent Christian academics and leaders and adopting a more innovative and dynamic approach towards evangelism. 

Finally, the presence of the church headquarters in Mindanao has served as a source of inspiration and motivation for all attendees, bringing fresh energy to the convention and generating excitement for what is to come in the days ahead. Together, this group of committed Christian educators and leaders will continue to strive towards excellence in education and mission, driven by their shared purpose and unwavering faith in God.