The Commission on Higher Education Caraga Regional Office (CHED Caraga) successfully conducted its Year-End Conference of Higher Education Institutions (HEI) Presidents and Heads at Dottie’s Place, Butuan City on December 18, 2024. This significant gathering served as a platform to acknowledge the milestones of higher education and achievements of HEIs within the region.
The conference opened with an acknowledgment of participants by Mr. Ever Joy G. Rabadan, MSc, MEd, LPT, L.Agri, Education Supervisor II, and a welcome message by Ms. Noeme Rose D. Mani, MM, CPA, Supervising Education Program Specialist, setting a collaborative tone for the day’s proceedings.
Dr. Alma S. Patron, RSW, OIC Regional Director, led the multimedia presentations that highlighted CHED Caraga’s 2024 accomplishments, the milestones in higher education for the year in relation to the CHED Strategic Plan 2023-2028, and the ways forward for the coming year. She expressed gratitude for the collective efforts of all HEIs in the region in supporting the Commission’s mission and goals.
Key updates were provided by Dr. Rolyna S. Trugillo, LPT, Education Supervisor II, on the implementation of Teacher Education Programs, and Dr. Criseldo Calinawan, PECE, Education Supervisor II on Maritime Education and the implementation of Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs Strategy (PADS).
Dr. Thucydides C. Sadiasa, President of the Caraga Regional Association of Higher Education Leaders Incorporated (CRAHELI), presented updates on the association’s initiatives, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among the HEI presidents and key officials.
In continuation of the Gawad Parangal Awarding Ceremony held in June 2023, CHED Caraga presented Matalino, Malakas, Mapagmahal sa Bayan awards to HEIs for their achievements for the period of June 2023 to November 2024. The awarding of plaques and certificates recognized the outstanding achievements and accomplishments of the HEIs, signifying a productive year of progress and excellence. Dr. Patron, Ms. Mani and Dr. Julia Felisa C. Martinez, LPT, Chief Education Program Specialist, presented the awards to the HEI representatives.
The program concluded with a Christmas-themed community dance number to celebrate the holiday season and a closing message from Dr. Martinez, looking to the year ahead of strengthened collaboration and continuous improvement.
This year’s conference not only celebrated the accomplishments of Caraga’s HEIs but also set a hopeful vision for the future, underscoring the region’s dedication to fostering quality higher education.