TURRIS LUMINIS
Official Bulletin of the Administration of Saint Joseph College Rosales St., Maasin City, Southern Leyte
Msgr. Oscar A. Cadayona appointed 5th School President
The Rev. Msgr. Oscar A. Cadayona became the Saint Joseph College’s fifth president on August 1, 2024. A philosopher-theologian-priest by training, an educator at heart, and a passionate advocate for holistic formation of the young, he has served at the Saint Joseph College since year 1999 in various capacities as a faculty member and as a head of different administrative offices. In that role and others, he has helped the administration to strengthen the school’s capacities in holistic education, research, and creative practice integrating values, policy, and collaborative approaches to advancing social, ecological, intellectual and spiritual resilience.
The then Fr. Cadayona joined Saint Joseph College as a member of the faculty right after his ordination to the priesthood in 1998. The then School President and at the same time the Bishop of Maasin, H.E. Most Rev. Precioso D. Cantillas, SDB, DD, appointed him as the first Campus Ministry Director in addition to his Chancery works as Bishop’s Private Secretary, Diocesan Chancellor and Minor Seminary Rector . He later became the second Dean of the newly established Theology Department in 2002. In 2012, he was appointed as Vice President for Academic Affairs after his return from studies abroad. He immediately revived the initiative to have certain college courses and the Junior High and Senior High Departments accredited by PAASCU to set and maintain the quality standards of education in SJC.
Having strengthened the Office of Research and Development, he led the creation of the following offices to establish and strengthen community engagement and linkages here and abroad: Public Affairs and Publication Office, Community Extension Service Office, and Office of Alumni Relations, and Human Resource Management and Development Office. In 2021, Msgr. Cadayona became the Executive Vice President.
Also actively engaged in the administration of the Diocese of Maasin, Msgr. Cadayona serves until today as the Vicar General and Moderator Curiae, member of the College of Consultors, and Diocesan Coordinator of the Synodal Consultation.
Msgr. Cadayona received a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and English Literature from the San Carlos Seminary College, Mabolo, Cebu City (Valedictorian/Summa Cum Laude), a Bachelor in Sacred Theology from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila (Magna Cum Laude), a Licentiate in Sacred Theology and Master of Arts in Higher Religious Studies from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila (Magna Cum Laude), and a Licentiate in Philosophy in Science and Metaphysics from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, Rome, Italy (Magna Cum Laude). He earned doctoral units from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome, Italy and got his Doctorate in Philosophy in Philosophical Anthropology (Excellent) via distance learning from the Selinus University of Sciences and Literature, Ragusa/Bologna, Italy.
As a seminarian, he served as a student leader, Seminary Chancellor, Class Moderator, and Editor-in-Chief of the Students’ Publication of the Faculty of Sacred Theology of the University of Santo Tomas, Manila. As a priest, he served in different capacities as a parochial vicar, a Chaplain of a Filipino Chaplaincy of Migrants, an Episcopal Vicar for Administration and Pastoral Planning, an Executive Pastor, and a Pastor. His favorite pastimes are writing poetry, essay and one-act play, aside from visiting the sick, friends and parishioners.
December 9, 2024
Volume 1, Issue 1
Inside this Issue
SJC Nursing Course 2
SJC and VSU Partnership 3
AB Political Science 4
Dean Fernandez Accreditor 4
Pharmacy Services NC III 5
CTE as Center of Development 5
VP Siega as Resource Speaker 6
VP Costillas as PEAC Monitor 6
Dir Buhat as Guest Speaker 6
Dean Jomoc as CHED Panel 7
CESO and Indigenous People 7
NURSING SCHOLARSHIP
Qualification:
A. One should be a top 3 Senior High Graduate from a public or private school.
¨ Top 1: 100% off tuition fee
¨ Top 2: 50% off tuition fee
¨ Top 3: 25% off tuition fee
B. One can also avail of a scholarship if the Scholarship Committee finds an applicant in dire need of it due to extreme poverty
SJC Nursing Course gets nod from CHED
When the government announced on July 13, 2022 that its moratorium on new nursing programs in higher education institutions (HEIs) was lifted, the School administration began keeping in touch with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office in Tacloban City how to proceed its plan to take advantage of the opening of the possibility to offer the course in almost a century old Saint Joseph College.
Bishop Precioso D. Cantillas, SD, DD, School President at that time, together with the Executive Vice President, Msgr. Oscar A. Cadayona, received encouragement from Bishop’s long time friend during TESDA days, the Regional Director, Dr. Maximo Aljibe, to start the application process.
The CHED Central Office came to Maasin City to visit Saint Joseph College during the first week of June, 2024. The technical panel of five checked the important documents and personally inspect the facilities which impressed the visitors.
So, Saint Joseph College (SJC) is now proud to announce that its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program has been officially approved by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
This approval comes alongside the unveiling of the college’s state-of-the-art facilities, designed to provide an exceptional learning environment for aspiring nurses. The CHED approval signifies that SJC’s Nursing program meets rigorous academic standards and is equipped to deliver high-quality education.
The program features advanced simulation labs, modern classrooms, and comprehensive clinical training areas, ensuring that students receive hands-on experience in a realistic healthcare setting.
Fr. Aldwin Flax S. Bagares, RN, MAN, Dean of the new program, expressed his excitement about the approval and the new facilities, stating, “We are thrilled to receive CHED’s endorsement for our Nursing program. Our state-of-the-art facilities will enhance the learning experience, allowing students to develop their skills in an environment that mirrors real-world healthcare scenarios.”
The newly designed nursing facilities include simulation labs equipped with the latest technology, allowing students to practice clinical skills using high-fidelity mannequins and interactive simulations. These resources will enable students to gain practical experience and build confidence before entering actual clinical settings.
The approval of the Nursing program and the introduction of cutting-edge facilities have generated enthusiasm among students and faculty. “Having access to such modern resources is a game changer for us. It prepares us to be competent and compassionate nurses in the future,” said one first-year nursing student.
With the CHED approval and the launch of its state-of-the-art facilities, Saint Joseph College is set to play a pivotal role in addressing the increasing demand for skilled nursing professionals in the Philippines. The college remains committed to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation in nursing education, ensuring that its graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the healthcare industry.
The Philippines is expected to need 250,000 more nurses by 2030 to address a growing nursing shortage. This is in addition to the current shortage of around 127,000 nurses in the country.
The Dean started accepting enrollees in the the month of September. By September 30, the formal classes started. For inquiries, any one can visit the Dean’s office located at the second floor of the new building called the Nursing Building adjacent to the Cathedral.
“The Philippines is expected to need 250,000 more nurses by 2030 to address a growing nursing shortage. This is in addition to the current shortage of around 127,000 nurses in the country.”
In Photos: SJC President Rev. Msgr. Oscar A. Cadayona, VP Riza Lynn Siega, Fr Dean Johnrey Sibi and SJC Faculty members, & DPSS-VSU Dept. Head Dr. Al Franjon Villaroya and Dean Glenn Pajares and other DPSS-VSU Faculty members.
SJC Liberal Arts and VSU Department of Philosophy and Social Sciences forge partnership
In a significant step towards enhancing academic collaboration, the College of Liberal Arts of Saint Joseph College (SJC) and the Department of Philosophy and Social Sciences of Visayas State University (VSU) officially forged a partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Novemebr 11, 2024.
The MOA signing ceremony, held at SJC’s Academic Council Conference Room, was attended by key officials from both institutions, including Msgr. Oscar Cadayona, President of SJC, and Dr. Glenn Pajares, Dean of the VSU Department of Philosophy and Social Sciences.
The partnership aims to promote academic exchange, joint research initiatives, and collaborative programs that will benefit students and faculty from both colleges. Msgr. Cadayona said, “This collaboration marks a new chapter for our College of Liberal Arts. By working together with VSU, we can enhance our academic offerings and provide our students with diverse opportunities for learning and growth.”
The agreement outlines various areas of cooperation, including joint seminars, workshops, and research projects that will foster a deeper understanding of philosophical and social issues. Both institutions are committed to sharing resources and expertise to enrich the educational experience for their students. Fr. Johnrey Sibi, PhL, MA, Dean of Liberal Arts, also said, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. “This partnership will not only strengthen our academic programs but also encourage critical thinking and dialogue among students and faculty. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead,” he remarked.
Students from both institutions will benefit from the partnership through access to shared resources, guest lectures, and potential exchange programs. The collaboration aims to cultivate a vibrant academic community that encourages innovative thinking and social engagement.
The signing of the memorandum of agreement took place after the holding of the Third Ataviado Lecture Series at the SJC AVR in which two VSU-DPSS faculty members gave lectures to seminarians and students together with faculty members of the College of Liberal Arts.
The two resource speakers were accompanied by DPSS faculty members who were all former seminarians from the Diocese of Maasin. The head of the DPSS-VSU, Dr. Al Franjon Villaroya, was himself a former seminarian.
SJC NEW LIBRARY
Saint Joseph College Unveils Modernized Library: A Hub for Learning and Innovation
On August 29, 2024, Saint Joseph College (SJC) proudly inaugurated its newly modernized library, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to providing an enriched learning environment for its students and faculty.
The blessing and inauguration ceremony, attended by faculty, students, and school officials, celebrated the transformation of the library into a state-of-the-art resource center.
The revitalized library features a contemporary design, equipped with advanced technology and a wide array of resources to support the academic needs of the SJC community.
With spacious reading areas, collaborative study rooms, and dedicated zones for research and digital learning, .the new library is set to become a central hub for innovation and creativity. During the ceremony, SJC President, Msgr. Oscar A. Cadayona, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Today, we celebrate not just a building, but a vision for the future of education at Saint Joseph College. This modernized library will serve as a beacon of knowledge, fostering a culture of inquiry and collaboration among our students.” The library now boasts an extensive collection of books, journals, and digital resources, ensuring that students have access to the latest information across various disciplines. ..to p.4 SJC New Library
SJC NEW LIBRARY..from p. 3
Additionally, the integration of cutting-edge technology, including interactive learning tools and online databases, will enhance research capabilities and facilitate a more engaging learning experience.
The blessing was officiated by the Priest-President himself. According to Ms. Leolina Cahayag, the Chief Librarian, “Students expressed their excitement about the new facility, with many eager to explore the expanded resources and collaborative spaces. They said that this library is a game changer for us. It’s not just about studying; it’s about creating an environment where we can learn from each other and grow together.”
The modernized library is part of SJC’s broader initiative to enhance its educational infrastructure and provide students with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving academic landscape.
As the college continues to embrace innovation and excellence, the new library stands as a testament to its dedication to nurturing future leaders and lifelong learners.
With the inauguration of the modernized library, Saint Joseph College reaffirms its commitment to fostering an enriching educational experience, empowering students to thrive in their academic pursuits and beyond
New program – A.B. Political Science is also approved by CHED
The Regional Office of the Commission on Higher Education in Tacloban City granted officially Saint Joseph College a permit to operate a new offering for those students who would like to prepare for law studies with political science as their pre-law course. The permit was given on February 29, 2024.
Fr. Johnrey B. Sibi, PhL, MA, the Dean of Liberal Arts, together with the whole SJC Educative Family was excited to announce the launch of its new Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program, designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and practices.
According to him, this program aims to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for civic engagement, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in government, law, international relations, and public policy. The curriculum offers a diverse range of courses that cover essential topics such as political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and public
administration.
Students will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences, including internships, research projects, and participation in debates and simulations, which will enhance their practical skills and deepen their understanding of political dynamics. Saint Joseph College is committed to nurturing informed and active citizens.
Through this program, Saint Joseph College would help students from different backgrounds in our province and nearby areas not only to gain knowledge of political institutions and processes but also develop a strong ethical foundation to navigate the complexities of the political landscape. With dedicated faculty members and a vibrant academic community, the school administration hoped that the new course A.B. in Political Science promises to be a transformative educational experience for those passionate about making a difference in the world.
Dean Beverly Fernandez tapped for PAASCU Accreditor
The Dean of the College of Teachers’ Education of Saint Joseph College (SJC), Dr. Beverly B. Fernandez, has been appointed as an accreditor by the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU).
This prestigious appointment highlights Dr. Fernandez’s extensive expertise and commitment to enhancing the quality of education in the country.
Dr. Fernandez, who has been instrumental in advancing the college’s academic programs and initiatives, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a PAASCU accreditor. “
I am honored to be appointed to this role. It is a privilege to contribute to the accreditation process, which plays a vital role in ensuring educational institutions meet high standards of quality and excellence,” she stated. As a PAASCU accreditor,
Dr. Beverly Fernandez will participate in evaluating various educational programs across the Philippines, providing valuable insights and recommendations for improvement. Her involvement in this capacity is expected to further strengthen the reputation of SJC’s College of Teachers’ Education, as well as enhance collaboration with other institutions in the pursuit of academic excellence.
The appointment has been met with enthusiasm from the SJC community, with faculty and students recognizing the significance of having their dean contribute to national standards in education. “This is a great achievement for Dr. Beverly Fernandez and for our institution. Her expertise will not only benefit our institution but also the broader educational landscape,” said Msgr. Oscar A. Cadayona, SJC President.
With Dr. Beverly Fernandez’s new role, Saint Joseph College continues to reinforce its commitment to quality education and professional development, ensuring that its graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the teaching profession.
SJC TESDA Pharmacy Services NC III Program rated compliant
Saint Joseph College (SJC) proudly announces that its Pharmacy Services NC III program has been found compliant with the requirements set by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). This recognition underscores the college’s commitment to providing high-quality vocational education and training in the field of pharmacy.
Following a comprehensive evaluation, TESDA officials confirmed that SJC’s Pharmacy Services program meets the necessary standards for curriculum, facilities, and faculty qualifications. This compliance not only enhances the credibility of the program but also ensures that students receive relevant and effective training that prepares them for careers in the pharmacy sector.
Dr. Almira Miras, RN, EdD, In-Charge of the Program, expressed her pride in this achievement, stating, “We are delighted to receive TESDA’s confirmation of compliance for our Pharmacy Services NC III program. This recognition reflects our dedication to delivering quality education and training that meets industry standards.”
The Pharmacy Services NC III program at SJC is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in various pharmacy settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies. The program emphasizes practical training, enabling students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios. School officials have welcomed the news with enthusiasm. “This compliance is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our school. It assures that our students will be receiving top-notch education in pharmacy,” said one School official.
“We will certainly pursue the COD application to further enhance our programs and continue to produce competent and passionate educators.”
SJC College of Teachers’ Education Encouraged to Apply for Center of Development Status by CHED* San Jose City, Philippines – August 29, 2024 –
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has encouraged College of Teachers’ Education of Saint Joseph College (SJC) to apply for Center of Development (COD) status, following its impressive performance in licensure examinations over the past five years.
The college has consistently maintained a passing rate above 50%, positioning itself as a leading institution in teacher education.
In an informal conversation of CHED personnel to SJC, CHED acknowledged the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and its significant contributions to the field of education.
The recommendation for COD status is a recognition of the college’s efforts to enhance the quality of teacher education and its positive impact on the professional development of future educators.
Msgr. Oscar A. Cadayona, President of SJC, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “We are honored to receive this encouragement from CHED. It reflects the hard work and dedication of our faculty and students. We will certainly pursue the COD application to further enhance our programs and continue to produce competent and passionate educators.”
The Center of Development status will provide SJC with additional resources and support to further improve its educational offerings, research initiatives, and community engagement. It also aims to strengthen the college’s role in shaping the future of education in the region.
Students and faculty members at the College of Teachers’ Education are optimistic about the potential benefits that COD status could bring. “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to elevate our programs and provide even better training for future teachers,” said Dr. Fernandez, the CTE Dean for the past years.
As SJC prepares to apply for COD status, the college remains committed to its mission of fostering academic excellence and producing highly qualified educators who are ready to meet the challenges of the evolving educational landscape.
To help Dean Beverly Fernandez in running the College of Teachers’ Educationh, the School tapped the Assistant Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, Ms. Noeme Garces Pitchuela, PhD in Literature (cand.) who has been here in Saint Joseph College for almost a decade teaching English and Literature.
SJC Criminology Shooting Range gets accredited
Saint Joseph College (SJC) is pleased to announce that its newly established Criminology Shooting Range has received official approval from the Philippine National Police (PNP).
This significant development enhances the college’s commitment to providing high-quality training for its criminology students. The approval comes after a thorough evaluation by the PNP, which recognized the shooting range’s compliance with safety standards and operational guidelines.
The facility is designed to offer students hands-on experience in firearms training, essential for their future careers in law enforcement and security.
Ms. Karen Cuizon, MSCrim, Dean of Criminology Department, expressed her excitement about the approval, stating, “We are thrilled to have the PNP’s endorsement for our shooting range. This facility will provide our criminology students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their field.”
The facility is situated in Sitio Lawngan, Ibarra, Maasin City, Southern Leyte.
VP Siega serves as Resource Speaker
On March 5, 2024, the Vice President for Administration and Dean of the College of Computer Studies was invited as the guest speaker of the Digital Innovation for Women’s Advancement (DIWA) at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Regional Office 8 in Tacloban City (online platform).
From August 5-9, 2024, she also attended “Training of Trainers on Quality Management System Standards for Digital Delivery” sponsored again by DICT 8 (online platform). On September 10, 2024, he participated in-person in the Regional ICT Summit and Exhibition: Empower, Connect and Innovate which was held at the Summit Hotel, Tacloban City.
On November 7, 2024, she presented the School in the consultation “IT and Software Roadshow: The Role of Higher Education in Supporting 4IR Through Disruptive Smart Technologies” hosted by CHED Regional Office VIII in Cebu City. Via Zoom, she attended Women Leading Innovation: Cybersecurity and Systems Biology for a Dafer World on November 8, 2024, sponsored by the Computing Society of the Philippines.
VP Riza Lynn Siega at Summit Hotel,
September 10, 2024
VP Costillas asked to join PEAC as Monitor
The Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Jhoanne L. Costillas, was requested by Private Education Assistance Committee or PEAC to be one of its monitors in ensuring the quality of education of institutions which receive financial assistance from the government.
PEAC is an agency that manages the Education Service Contracting (ESC) and Teacher Scholarship Support (TSS) programs for the Department of Education (DepEd).
PEAC is also the trustee of the Fund for Assistance to Private Education (FAPE), a permanent fund that supports private education in the Philippines. In line with this, she attended the training on October 4-5, 2024 AIM Conference Center, Makati City.
Also, she was one of the resource persons in the Regional STI Stakeholders Consultative Workshop in connection with the implementation of the program “Innovation, Science and Technology for Accelerating Regional Technology-Based Development (iSTART)” at Hotel de Fides, Tacloban City.
Director Buhat of OAR and GAD Focal Person guests events
Ms. Noreen Silot-Buhat, JD, the Office for Alumni Relations Director and GAD Focal Person, gave a lecture on Ethics in Health Research which was organized by the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC 8) on August 22, 2024 at Alejandro Hotel, Tacloban City. She has been the school representative for that consortium since year 2008.
It is also along this work that she joined the 10th General Assembly of Philippine Health Research Ethics Network (PHREN) on October 11, 2024 at the Tower 2, Makati Medical Center, Makati City.
On November 21, 2024, she was the resource speaker for the Gender and Development Sensitivity Training of Prime Water Incorporated and Maasin Water District joint venture which was held at Kea’s Resort, Macrohon, Southern Leyte, Philippines.
Dean Jomoc helps CHED evaluate LNU’s and WLC’s programs
Dr. Rosalinda C. Jomoc, Dean of BSTM and BSHM of Saint Joseph College, upon the request of CHED and in recognition of her expertise on tourism and hospitality courses, evaluated two schools on different occasions.
Together with other members of the technical panel from CHED Central Office (OPSD), she visited the Leyte Normal University to help evaluate the program offerings via the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) on November 18-20, 2024.
On November 28, 2024, Dr. Jomoc and CHEDRO 8 RQUAT went to Western Leyte College of Ormoc City, Inc to evaluate the institution’s BSTM offering for possible issuance of Initial Permit by the government.
Saint Joseph College is proud to have a number of its personnel that are part of the CHEDRO 8 Regional Quality Assurance Team or RQUAT. They are the following: for computer studies, Dean Riza Lynn Siega; for Accountancy, Dean Tristan Jun Esclamado; for Teachers’Education, Dr. Beverly Fernandez; for tourism and hospitality management, Dr. R. Jomoc; and for Criminology, the late Dean Erlindo Pesana.
The School also takes pride in having in our midst PAASCU Accreditors: Dr. J. Costillas, Dr. B. Fernandez, and Engr. Renato Maglasang, and former VPIA Estrellita Plarisan.
“ Dr. Ponce spoke about the Mamanwa community’s desire for their children to receive proper education while preserving their cultural heritage.”
SJC Community Extension Service Office reaches out to the INDIGENOUS PEOPLE
The Director of the Community Extension Service Office, Ms. Ruby T. de la Torre, together with the Director of the Office of Arts and Culture, Mr. Ferdinand V. Garvez, led a group of Josephinians to two Southern Leyte towns where “Mamanwa”, one of the oldest nomadic tribes in the Philippines, live. The purpose of the visit, which happened on September 19-21, 2024, was twofold: to have a need assessment survey and to get to know more about their culture which until now not many people are familiar with.
They went first to San Fransisco, Southern Leyte where they met first with the Municipal Mayor and afterwards they walked up hill for four kilometers to reach the community. The nomadic people welcomed the visitors and entertained their questions.
Afterwards, the group proceeded to St. Bernard, Southern Leyte to visit another group of Mamanwa. They stayed in an inn for the night. The following morning they proceeded to the community of Mamanwa who were patient to answer questions from the group for the whole morning.
On October 23, 2024, the 2024 Regional Indigenous Peoples Education (IPED) Summit was held at San Francisco Southern Leyte, under the theme “Katutubong Karunungan
Tungo sa Ingklusibong Kaunlaran” (Indigenous Knowledge Toward Inclusive Development). Hosted by the Department of Education (DepEd) Region VIII in collaboration with Saint Joseph College, the summit brought together stakeholders, educators, and community leaders from Indigenous communities to highlight the significance of preserving indigenous culture and ensuring the inclusion of Indigenous Peoples (IP) in formal education systems.
One of the highlights of the event was the speech by Dr. Betlehem A. Ponce, a renowned IP researcher and Assistant Professor II at the Visayas State University. She shared the poignant stories of indigenous parents, like the Mamanwa, who are determined to provide formal education for their children despite the challenges they face. Dr. Ponce spoke about the Mamanwa community’s desire for their children to receive proper education while preserving their cultural heritage.
After all the distribution of goods brought by SJC CESO, Ms. De la Torre thanked members of the Academic Council, Office of Arts and Culture staff, FCSO, and all SJC Faculty members and non-teaching staff for getting involved in this Institutional Outreach to this group of nomadic people.
TURRIS LUMINIS
Turris Luminis, which means Tower of Light, is the official bulletin of the Administration of the Saint Joseph College. This is handled by the Secretary of the Office of the School President in collaboration with the Staff of the Office of the Integrated Media and other staff of the different offices of the institution.
This bulletin comes out twice a year every after the end of the semester to chronicle the achievements and milestones of the whole institution as an Educative Family.
One can reach the Office of the School President by this landline: (053) 5708448. One can also visit www.sjc.edu.ph and fb official page Saint Joseph College or email: info@sjc.edu.ph
CEAP CONVENTION 2024 IN DAVAO CITY
The CEAP (Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines) 2024 Convention, held under the inspiring theme “Pilgrims and Agents of Hope: Embracing Synodality,” gathered educators and administrators from Catholic institutions nationwide to explore the vital role of synodality in fostering a collaborative and inclusive educational environment oN Novebr 12-15, 2024.
Selected office heads from Saint Joseph College had the privilege of attending this significant event, where they engaged in enriching discussions and workshops focused on the transformative power of listening, dialogue, and shared decision-making within the educational community.
The convention emphasized the importance of being open to diverse perspectives and working together to nurture a culture of hope and solidarity among students, faculty, and the broader community. Through keynote speeches from esteemed leaders in the field of education and interactive sessions, attendees were encouraged to reflect on their roles as agents of change and to embrace the journey of faith and collaboration.
The insights gained from the convention will undoubtedly empower our office heads to implement innovative practices and strengthen the mission of Saint Joseph College as a beacon of hope in Catholic education. As they came home, our office heads are eager to share their experiences and implement the valuable lessons learned, ensuring that Saint Joseph College continues to thrive as a community committed to growth, inclusivity, and the pursuit of excellence in education.
SJC COURSES GRANTED CERTIFICATE OF CANDIDACY STATUS and NOW PAASCU READY
Saint Joseph College (SJC) proudly announces that several of its academic courses have been granted Certificate of Candidacy status by the Federation of Accrediting Agencies of the Philippines (FAAP). This recognition highlights the college’s commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement in its educational offerings. The Certificate of Candidacy status is a significant milestone for SJC, as it indicates that the college’s programs are on track for formal accreditation.
This status allows the institution to undergo the necessary evaluation processes to meet the rigorous standards set by FAAP, which is essential for enhancing the quality of education provided to students. The whole SJC Educative Family expressed its enthusiasm regarding this achievement, stating, “We are thrilled to receive the Certificate of Candidacy status from FAAP. This recognition reflects our dedication to providing high-quality education and our commitment to continuous improvement in our academic programs.”
The following are the college programs which received the certificate of candidacy status: Accountancy, Secondary Education, Elementary Education, Civil Engineering, and Liberal Arts. This recognition was awarded on June 5, 2024. Additionally, the same candidacy status was granted to the Junior High School Program on December 11, 2023, and to the Senior High School Program on August 18, 2023.
The institution plans to utilize this opportunity to further enhance its curriculum, faculty development, and student services, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their respective fields. The FAAP’s endorsement not only boosts the credibility of SJC’s programs but also assures prospective students and their families of the institution’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards. As SJC moves forward in the accreditation process, the college remains focused on its mission to provide a holistic and quality education that fosters academic excellence and prepares students for successful careers.
The Candidate Status is bestowed upon institutions that have satisfactorily met the standards and fulfilled all requirements set forth by the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU). We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that our programs meet the highest quality education standards, working diligently towards the success and future of our students and the community we serve.
The institution is very grateful to the former Vice President for Institutional Affairs, Ms. Estrellita Plarisan, for laying the groundworks on which the present in-charge could launch the colossal task of getting courses accredited.