In a significant step toward shaping the economic landscape of Cagayan de Oro City, Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan's Department of Economics recently served as the technical consultant for the city’s new City Economic Development and Investment Promotions Plan (CEDIP). Recognized as the city’s “mother plan” for economic growth, CEDIP aims to foster sustainable development, attract investments, and boost the local economy.
The planning session, held on 17-18 October at the New Dawn Hotel, gathered key representatives from academia, private sector organizations, banks, local government units, and the city government. This collaborative gathering underscores the inclusive approach the city is taking to create a dynamic and forward-looking economic plan.
As an institution rooted in the Jesuit mission of “men and women for others,” Xavier Ateneo has consistently aimed to contribute meaningfully to local and national development. Through this involvement in CEDIP, the university reinforces its commitment to the city’s progress, creating valuable opportunities for students and faculty. The university will benefit from firsthand access to emerging economic data and insights into local investment trends, facilitating research opportunities for faculty and academic programs.
Mr Jhon Louie B Sabal, Chairperson of the Department of Economics, took on a central role as the resource speaker and consultant for CEDIP. His insights, drawn from years of academic and practical expertise, offered valuable perspectives to the plan’s framework. In addition, Ms Jessica S Cahulogan and Mr Ryan M Buquis, esteemed faculty members from Xavier Ateneo, will co-author the plan, embedding academic rigor and the university's values into the document.
The Department of Economics is also advising the Oro TIPC on the CEDIP plan and the restructuring of the CEDIP Board. This strategic involvement aims to create pathways for students to gain valuable on-the-job training and internships, fostering their growth as future leaders equipped to tackle the economic challenges and opportunities of Cagayan de Oro and beyond. This access to experiential learning embodies Xavier Ateneo's commitment to holistic education, equipping students for impactful careers in economic development and policy-making.
The partnership between Xavier Ateneo and the city government through CEDIP marks a milestone in both entities’ shared journey toward economic resilience and inclusivity in Cagayan de Oro. As the city moves forward with a strategic roadmap for growth, Xavier Ateneo’s contributions underscore the role of educational institutions in fostering sustainable development and highlight the mutual benefits of collaboration between academia and local government.