All smiles, members of the Academe Panel Discussion stand together with representatives from the City Education
Development Office (CEDO) after receiving their certificates and engaging in a meaningful conversation.
Education thrives when vision meets collaboration. During the City Education Innovation Week, the PADDLE UP! Government Industry Academe Dialogue convened leaders from government, industry, and academe to explore strategies, innovations, and partnerships that can strengthen the learning ecosystem in Cagayan de Oro City. This event took place at Country Village Hotel on 20 November 2025.
Panelists shared insights, best practices, and practical solutions that highlighted the power of collaboration in shaping meaningful learning experiences. From addressing emerging educational challenges to envisioning programs that prepare students for the future, the dialogue reinforced that transforming education is a collective effort. By bringing diverse minds together, PADDLE UP reminded everyone that progress, creativity, and lifelong learning flourish best when communities work toward a shared vision for the next generation of Kagayanon learners.
Dr Macagba Moderated Academe Discussion
Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan was proudly represented by Dr Samuel Macagba III, Assistant Principal for Formation of the Junior High School, who was invited to moderate the Academe Panel Discussion. His role placed him at the forefront of a vibrant and insightful exchange among leaders in education.
Dr Macagba probes the discussants, crystalizing the vital role of the academe in paving the way for
the future of learning in Cagayan de Oro City.
Dr Macagba guided a thoughtful and engaging conversation with distinguished panelists, including Dr Angelo Mark Walag, a faculty member of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, 2025 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teacher, and alumnus of the Xavier University School of Education; Ms Mars Guibone, President of the Cagayan de Oro Association of Private Elementary Schools (CAPES); Ms Ramonette Olandesca, President of the Cagayan de Oro Private High Schools Association; Dr Helmae Tapanan, Vice President for Academic Affairs of the City College of Cagayan de Oro; Dr Rochelle Lozano, Program Specialist from the Department of Education; and Mr Daryl Glenn Pamplona, representative from the Commission on Higher Education Region X.
Through his facilitation, Dr Macagba created a dynamic flow of ideas that allowed greater and richer insights to emerge from the session. His presence as the sole representative of Xavier University underscored the institution’s commitment to educational leadership, community engagement, and the advancement of innovative learning practices in the city.
An Annual Commitment to Collaboration
According to Ms Richel Petalcurin Dahay, Acting City Education and Development Officer, the Government Industry Academe Dialogue and the entire Education and Innovation Week will now be held annually. This development is part of a City Ordinance supported and championed by Hon. Rolando Klarex Uy, Mayor of Cagayan de Oro City.
Ms Petalcurin-Dahay shares the rationale behind the City Innovation Week and expresses
her gratitude to all who actively participated.
Institutionalizing the activity ensures that the conversations begun in PADDLE UP will continue to shape, strengthen, and align the city’s education initiatives in the years ahead.
Moving Forward Together
The PADDLE UP Dialogue reaffirmed a significant truth: transforming education is a shared responsibility. By bringing together diverse perspectives from policymakers, educators, and industry partners, the city takes important steps toward building a cohesive and future ready learning ecosystem.
Xavier University remains steadfast in its mission of forming leaders who are competent, compassionate, and committed to advancing education in Mindanao and the Philippines.
Photo supplied by CEDO.