Hosted by Silliman University, the 64th National Convention of the Association of Christian Schools, Colleges, and Universities (ACSCU) opened on May 11, 2026, gathering Christian educators and institutional leaders from across the country to celebrate “80 Years of God’s Grace: Education for Christlike Character, Transformation and Hope.”
Serving as the lead school for ACSCU Visayas, SU welcomed delegates to a three-day convention featuring key discussions on Christian education, policy, and institutional collaboration, with outgoing ACSCU president Dr. Betty Cernol McCann delivering the opening message reflecting on the organization’s legacy of faith, resilience, and service.
In his welcome message, Dr. Earl Jude Paul L. Cleope, chairperson of ACSCU Visayas, welcomed delegates from across the country and underscored the convention as a gathering rooted in worship, unity, and shared mission. Cleope emphasized the enduring partnership of faith and excellence in Christian education while encouraging participants to renew their calling and strengthen relationships for collaborative service.
Delivering the opening message at the Luce Auditorium, McCann reflected on ACSCU’s founding in 1946 amid the post-war rebuilding of the Philippines, describing Christian education as a ministry that restores hope, forms character, and sustains communities through adversity.
McCann highlighted the resilience of Christian schools amid disasters, economic pressures, and shifting educational demands, affirming that “Christian education in the Philippines survives not by privileges, but by purpose.”
She called on member institutions to deepen collaboration, embrace innovation without losing their identity, and continue forming compassionate and faith-centered leaders.
The opening day featured worship and anniversary activities at the Luce Auditorium, followed by opening ceremonies and a keynote address by Dr. Jerome T. Buenviaje, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Education, at the SU Transformative Learning Center. Regional breakout sessions and organizational updates capped the day’s program.
On May 12, the convention featured plenary sessions on pressing education concerns with key speakers from the government and education sectors. Discussions on basic education were led by Dr. Ebenezer A. Beloy of the Department of Education, followed by updates from Dr. Rhodora Angela Fernandez-Ferrer of the Private Education Assistance Committee. Tertiary education and student financial assistance matters were tackled by Atty. Septon Dela Cruz of the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education, while legislative and education reforms were discussed by Dr. Karol Mark Yee of the Second Congressional Commission on Education. Updates on technical-vocational education were presented by Fr. Onofre Inocencio Jr. of UniTVET.
The final day of the convention, May 13, centered on organizational business, leadership transition, and consecration rites. Delegates convened at the SU Transformative Learning Center for the ACSCU business meeting, which included reports from regional conventions, ratification of Board of Trustees resolutions, finance and membership updates, and discussions on organizational matters.
The convention concluded with a consecration service for the incoming ACSCU president and Board of Trustees members, followed by the formal closing ceremonies led by outgoing ACSCU President McCann, capping off the three-day gathering of Christian educators and institutional leaders.
