Dr Edralin Manla, Dean of the School of Education, joins the speakers,
organizers, and attendees of APNIEVE Philippines’ Conference.
Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, through its School of Education, stood prominently as one of the co-presenters in the 3rd International Conference and 24th National Convention of APNIEVE Philippines held at Liceo de Cagayan University. Alongside Liceo de Cagayan University and the City College of Cagayan de Oro, XU helped anchor this year’s gathering that explored the role of generative artificial intelligence and education in advancing human values for a sustainable future. The event brought together educators, scholars, and advocates committed to shaping learning that is both technologically responsive and deeply humane.
The University’s presence was strongly felt throughout the three-day convention, especially during the plenary sessions. Ms Lea Lilibeth Emata, Principal of Xavier University Junior High School, served as one of the distinguished plenary speakers on Day Two. Her talk, titled Tinker. Think. Transform.: Bringing Maker Learning and AI into Every Filipino Classroom, inspired participants to embrace creativity with courage. She reminded the audience that the heart of innovation is anchored not in tools but in purpose, and she encouraged educators to tinker boldly, think critically, collaborate compassionately, and transform the world one idea, one prototype, and one story at a time.
Ms Lea Lilibeth Emata, Principal of Xavier University Junior High School, inspires educators
to remain relevant and purpose-driven amid the rise of AI.
XU’s academic contribution continued through the research presentation of Ms Adeva Jane Kalidas, faculty member of the School of Education. Her paper, Challenges in Implementing a Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy in Indigenous Formal Education, highlighted the importance of safeguarding cultural identity in modern learning spaces. She illustrated how artificial intelligence can meaningfully support this mission through digital preservation, virtual reconstruction, and thoughtful data analysis, offering possibilities for technology to become a partner in sustaining heritage rather than overshadowing it.
Ms Adeva Jane Kalidas, faculty member of the School of Education, presents her research on supporting
Indigenous community education through the use of artificial intelligence.
The University was also represented in the conference leadership and program management. Dr Samuel Macagba III, Assistant Principal for Formation of Xavier University Junior High School, served as one of the Masters of Ceremonies and contributed to the organizing efforts as an incoming officer of APNIEVE Philippines Region X Chapter. His presence helped ensure a program flow that honored both intellectual rigor and the shared values at the core of the gathering.
Dr Samuel Macagba III, Assistant Principal for Formation of Xavier University
Junior High School, candidly engages the audience during the conference.
Throughout the convention, the collaborative energy of partner universities and educational institutions created a space where conversations on peace education, cultural identity, and responsible technological integration could flourish. Delegates exchanged stories of practice and hope, emphasizing the shared responsibility of educators to lead with discernment and compassion in a rapidly changing digital world.
Xavier University’s involvement in this regional gathering reflects its ongoing commitment to Ignatian leadership in education, one that forms learners and teachers who are adaptable, reflective, and grounded in values. By contributing research, thought leadership, and service to the community of educators, XU affirms its mission to shape learning environments where innovation serves humanity and where every Filipino learner is empowered to dream, create, and transform.
Photo supplied through the Liceo de Cagayan University Facebook page and Ms Kalidas’ Facebook account.