Dr. Harry Anthony Patrinos is the Head of the Department of Education Reform and 21st Century Endowed Chair in Education Policy at the University of Arkansas, specializing in the economics of education. Formerly a Senior Adviser at the World Bank, he has held key roles across global regions, led major research initiatives like the Harmonized Learning Outcomes database, and authored over 50 journal articles. He holds a doctorate from the University of Sussex and has a distinguished background in both policy and academic work on education and equity, including the socioeconomic status of Indigenous Peoples.

Dr. Karol Mark Yee is the Executive Director of the Second Congressional Commission on Education, leading efforts to assess and reform the Philippine education system. A scholar of both the Jardine Foundation and Fulbright Program, he holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge and a Master’s from Harvard.

He has held key roles in CHED, the Senate, and USAID’s YouthWorks PH project, and is currently affiliated with Ateneo de Manila, UP CIDS, and SUNY Albany's PROPHE.

Sec. Kiko Benitez, Director General of TESDA, is a literary scholar, educator, and former Representative of the Third District of Negros Occidental (2019–2024). In Congress, he championed education reform, digital transformation, creative industries, environmental accounting, and the creation of the Negros Island Region, authoring landmark laws such as RA 11648, RA 11899, RA 11904, RA 11995, and RA 12000.

Former President of the Philippine Women’s University, he continues to advocate for paradigm shifts in education governance and development planning through systems thinking and innovation. He holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Comparative Literature from Wisconsin-Madison and earned his B.A. from Cornell.

Secretary Sonny Angara, appointed in July 2024 as Secretary of Education, brings over two decades of public service—nine years as Congressman of Aurora and eleven years as Senator. With education close to his heart, he authored over 300 laws, including free kindergarten, free college education, the Anti-Bullying Act, Ladderized Education Act, and Student Fare Discount Act.

Coming from a family of educators, with his father a former UP President and his mother a teacher, he also taught law at New Era University and CEU. He studied at Xavier School, LSE, UP Law, and Harvard Law, grounding his lifelong commitment to education.

Dr. Shirley Castañeda Agrupis, Commissioner of CHED since September 2024 and former President of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), is a seasoned academician, researcher, and public servant. Overseeing 22 SUCs across key regions, she champions standardized protocols, good governance, and government advocacies.

A two-time Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awardee and recipient of national and international honors, she elevated MMSU to ISO certification and QS Stars recognition, advancing it to four-star status and global rankings in resilience, AI, and sustainability. With a strong focus on internationalization, innovation, and inclusive education, Dr. Agrupis continues to shape Philippine higher education with vision and impact.

Dr. Ronald U. Mendoza is the Undersecretary for Strategic Management at the Department of Education, specializing in governance and institutional reforms with over 25 years of experience in economic development and public administration. He previously served as Dean of the Ateneo School of Government, led a USAID governance project, and held leadership roles at AIM and IDInsight.

A recognized expert with global affiliations, including the UN CEPA, he has also been named among the Philippines’ top 100 scientists. He holds degrees from Ateneo, Harvard, and Fordham University.

DDG Rosanna A. Urdaneta, is the TESDA Deputy Director General for Policies and Planning, she is a distinguished leader recognized for advancing the TVET sector both nationally and internationally. Starting as a rank-and-file employee at the National Manpower and Youth Council (NMYC), she rose to her current position, specializing in community enterprise systems, informal sector development, and training technologies.

DDG Urdaneta spearheaded key initiatives, including the establishment of the ASEAN TVET Council, and led the formulation of the National Technical Education and Skills Development Plans since 2018. Her leadership has positioned TESDA as a global force while ensuring local relevance through innovations. With over 40 years of public service, her work continues to shape the future of technical and vocational education in the Philippines.

Br. Bernard S. Oca FSC is the 24th president of De La Salle University (DLSU), a leading institution in the Philippines and part of the global Lasallian network. A lifelong Lasallian, he earned his degrees including a Doctor of Education from DLSU and joined the De La Salle Brothers in the 1970s.

He previously served as president of La Salle Green Hills, Jaime Hilario Integrated School-La Salle, DLSU Professional Schools, and De La Salle Santiago Zobel School, and held multiple vice chancellor roles at DLSU. He was appointed DLSU Chancellor in 2018 and president in 2021.

Br. Bernie is active in educational and civic organizations, holding leadership roles in PAASCU, SMEC, ASAIHL-NCP, ACUP, PETA, and AIM. His leadership is marked by a commitment to Lasallian mission, academic excellence, and regional collaboration.

Dr. Miriam P. Narbarte, a seasoned academic leader and business educator with over 34 years of experience, has built a distinguished career in higher education, quality assurance, and international service. She holds a PhD in Commerce from UST, an MBA from PCU, and a BS in Commerce from AUP, where she later served as Vice President for Academics.

Her leadership includes a six-year deanship in Kenya and decades of service as accreditor, examiner, and evaluator. Currently President of ACSCU-ACI and FAAP Board Member, Dr. Narbarte continues to contribute through consultancy, CHED appointments, and faculty development even after her 2023 retirement.

Dr. Conrado E. Iñigo, Jr., President of the University of the Visayas, is a distinguished academic leader with over 40 years of experience in higher education and administration. A scholar of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, he earned his MBA from Ateneo de Manila University and Philippine Christian University, and his Ph.D. in Business Management as a Dean’s Lister. He pursued post-doctoral and executive programs at Wharton, Minnesota, Georgetown, and NUS, and represented the Philippines in various APO programs. Recognized with numerous awards, including the Juran Medal, Agora Award, and Asia’s Education Excellence Award, Dr. Iñigo continues to champion quality education, innovation, and leadership.

Dr. Grace H. Aguiling-Dalisay, President and CEO of the Center for Educational Measurement, Inc. (CEM), is a Registered Psychologist, Educational Leader, and Volunteerism Champion. A retired UP Diliman professor, she has served as Dean, Department Chair, and Vice President for Academic Affairs at leading institutions. She has led key professional and civic organizations, including VOICE Network, PSSP, and PAG, and contributed to the UN Volunteers’ *World’s Volunteerism Report*. Currently Chair of ChildFund Philippines and UPRAISE, Inc., Dr. Aguiling-Dalisay was honored as the 2024 PRC Outstanding Psychologist and 2025 UP Alumni Distinguished Awardee for Human Capital Development.

Christine Joy A. Ballada, PhD, is a seasoned academic leader and Lasallian educator with over two decades of experience in higher education. Formerly Dean of Student Affairs at DLSU Manila, she transformed student services during the pandemic and established the Student Success Center. Now Dean of the Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC College of Education, she oversees diverse undergraduate and graduate programs while serving as Associate Professor in Counseling and Educational Psychology. Holding a PhD in Educational Psychology and MS in Educational Measurement and Evaluation from DLSU, she is also President of PEMEA, advancing quality assessment and evaluation in education.

Dr. Caroline Marian S. Enriquez, President of Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU), has led the institution to national and international recognition through her transformative leadership and commitment to quality education. Under her guidance, OLFU earned the Philippine Quality Award, Autonomous Status for multiple campuses, and global distinctions such as QS Stars and WURI rankings. A respected academic leader, she has served as PACU President, COCOPEA Board Member, and trustee of PAMI. Honored with numerous awards, including the Gusi Peace Prize and Papal Award Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, Dr. Enriquez continues to champion excellence, innovation, and compassionate education in the Philippines.

Dr. Arturo J. Patungan Jr., Assistant Professor at the University of Santo Tomas, is a dedicated mathematics educator, data analyst, and consultant with over two decades of teaching and research experience. He specializes in data science, statistics, and analytics, serving as Program Coordinator for the BS Data Science and Analytics program. His consulting roles include data and analytics projects for the UN-ESCAP and UST offices. A published researcher and frequent speaker on AI, education, and analytics, he is also Treasurer and Board Member of the Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines. Dr. Patungan holds a PhD in Mathematics Education from UP Diliman.

Dr. Soraya Faculo, Schools Division Superintendent of Baguio City, has built a distinguished career in the Department of Education, serving in key leadership roles such as OIC-Superintendent in Ifugao, Assistant Superintendent in Abra, OIC Assistant Regional Director, HRDD Chief in DepEd-CAR, and school principal. Her tenure in Baguio is defined by innovation, most notably through Project FAITH, which introduced data-driven governance tools like online enrolment monitoring, personnel time logs, and learning outcomes dashboards to strengthen efficiency and accountability.

She also spearheaded the Smart Learning Communities initiative, integrating digital technology, hybrid classes, and AI into K–12 education. A Fulbright-Humphrey Fellow and SEAMEO-RELC Scholar, Dr. Faculo exemplifies visionary leadership, lifelong learning, and a commitment to transformative education.

OIC-Usec. Malcolm S. Garma is the Assistant Secretary and Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Undersecretary for Operations at the Department of Education, bringing decades of experience in educational leadership. He began his career at the UP Integrated School and later served as Regional Director in key areas including Regions IX, III, I, and NCR. His work has focused on strengthening education systems, expanding access, and improving literacy outcomes, including through roles with the USAID RTI ABC+ project and the National Academy of Sports. He is also part of EDCOM 2's Standing Committee on Governance and Finance and holds an MBA from Ateneo.

Mr. El Cid H. Castillo, a dedicated public service worker at TESDA for 26 years, currently serves as Executive Director of its Qualifications and Standards Office. An advocate of quality technical education and skills development, he actively collaborates with TVET leaders while continuously equipping himself through advanced studies and executive training.

A Career Executive Service official since June 2023, he holds degrees and training from UP Visayas, University of Newcastle (Australia) as an AUSAid Scholar, University of Southeastern Philippines, and the Development Academy of the Philippines. His career reflects his commitment to advancing technical education and public service excellence.

Kristine Anne C. Dimaculangan, PhD candidate in Mathematics Education at Philippine Normal University, is the Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Academics at De La Salle Lipa, where she has worked since 2004. She holds an MA in Mathematics Education and graduated Cum Laude with a BS in Secondary Education. Her roles include curriculum development, academic policy formulation, and leadership in transformative education. She has published research on teaching strategies and gamification and presented at international conferences. A member of various professional organizations, she is skilled in productivity tools, statistical operations, and project management. She is also a choir member, wife, and mother of three.

Dr. Peter P. Laurel, President of Lyceum of the Philippines University Batangas, Laguna, and Davao, is a strong advocate of effective leadership in higher education. A former PACU President and AUAP President, he now chairs the AUAP Advisory and Committees, and also leads GAIN as Chairman. He has been recognized with the GO Negosyo Award, Golden Juran Award for leadership, and was an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year finalist. Holding a PhD in Business Management, a Master’s from AIM, and a Bachelor’s from the London School of Economics, Dr. Laurel continues to advance excellence in education and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Dodjie S. Maestrecampo is the President and CEO of Mapúa University, a leading institution in engineering and technological education in the Philippines. A Mapúa alumnus and a Ph.D. holder in Educational Leadership from De La Salle University, he brings nearly four decades of experience in academic innovation and institutional leadership. Known for founding and transforming Mapúa MCL and Mapúa MCM, he now leads the university's centennial vision focused on sustainability, digital transformation, and global competence—championing initiatives like the T4 Career Readiness Framework and AI Strategy Roadmap to prepare students for the future.

Dr. Rosemary Seva, Executive Director for Quality Assurance at De La Salle University, is a University Fellow and Professor of Industrial and Systems Engineering at the Gokongwei College of Engineering, where she also served as Dean. An international leader in ergonomics, she chairs the IEA Science, Technology, and Practice Committee, and has led both local and regional ergonomics societies.

She has held key roles in PAASCU, CHED, PAES, and currently serves as Vice-Chair of the IECB. A Certified Professional Ergonomist and IEOM Fellow, Dr. Seva has received multiple honors, including the IEOM Distinguished Educator Award and the 2023 PIIE Luminary Award.

Maria Cynthia Rose Banzon Bautista, immediate past UP System Vice President for Academic Affairs, is a distinguished sociologist and education leader. She has served as CHED Commissioner, UP Diliman professor, dean, and executive director of the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies. Currently, she sits on the Advisory Council of EDCOM II and the boards of PIDS, DLSU, Card MRI, and the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation.

Internationally, she has held leadership roles in UNESCO, AQAN, ASEAN, and EU SHARE. Recipient of TOWNS, NAST, and NRCP awards, Dr. Bautista earned her BA from UP Diliman and MS/PhD from Wisconsin-Madison.

Don began his career as a banker, working for 12 years across four countries. Since 1997, he has independently consulted, trained, and taught in nearly 20 countries, working with top financial institutions and co-founding a consulting group that has improved MBA programs, led strategic planning, and developed financial models.

Over the past decade, he has focused on education reform, particularly in K to 12 finance and policy, contributing to major programs like Educational Service Contracting, the Senior High School Voucher Program, and DepEd’s Basic Education Development Plan 2030. He recently completed a study on the absorptive capacity of Philippine basic education.

Don has taught graduate students for 25 years, authored four books, and written columns and training cases. He is currently completing his doctoral dissertation.

Dr. Jennie V. Jocson is the Executive Director V of the Teacher Education Council Secretariat, leading key initiatives such as the teacher career progression framework, education scholarships, and curriculum reform. A respected educator with 25 years of experience, she holds a post-doctorate in research from the University of New England, Australia, and was honored with the 2023 Bravo Empowered Women Award in Education.

Dr. Edizon Angeles Fermin, Vice President for Academic Affairs at National Teachers College, brings over two decades of expertise in learning design, assessment, and educational policy, blending scholarly depth with practical impact in education transformation. A magna cum laude graduate of UP Diliman with advanced degrees in language education, planning, and policy, he is the first recipient of the Oscar M. Lopez Award for Transformative Educational Leadership and part of the 2020 Ayala Innovation Awardee team.

As chair of CHED technical panels and consultant to DepEd, TESDA, and global education bodies, he champions evidence-based, inclusive practices, microcredentialing, and alternative pathways.

Fr. Jose Dindo Vitug, SDB, is a distinguished leader in education and vocational training, holding a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Management from De La Salle University. He enhanced his expertise through programs at Singapore’s National Institute of Education and Germany’s Internationales Institut Fur Berufsbildung. Currently Chancellor of Don Bosco Educational Centers and Executive Director of Don Bosco–One TVET Philippines, he oversees 18 vocational institutions nationwide.

As Coordinator of Don Bosco TECH ASEAN, he manages 36 TVET centers across eight countries, while serving as Trustee of DBEC schools. His leadership reflects a steadfast commitment to advancing education and vocational formation.

Fr. Johnny Go is the Founding Dean of the Gokongwei Brothers School of Education and Learning Design at Ateneo de Manila University and serves as the Basic Education Coordinator for the Jesuit Asia Pacific Conference. A seasoned educator and scholar, he teaches across multiple institutions and disciplines, including education, philosophy, and science and society. His expertise spans Ignatian pedagogy, teacher development, and leadership, with several published books and international workshops to his name. He holds doctorates in education from UCL and Singapore’s NIE and is also known for his award-winning Bible blog, Pins of Light.

Sr. Felicitas V. Bernardo, SPC is the Regional Program Director of PEAC–NCR and concurrently serves as Dean of the College of Education and Liberal Arts, and Dean of the Graduate School–College of Education at St. Paul University Manila, where she also leads the Academic Program Development and Innovation Office. A dedicated educator and leader, she plays a vital role in shaping academic programs and fostering innovation in higher education. As Vice President of the Reading Association of the Philippines, she actively advances literacy and educational development nationwide, reflecting her strong commitment to transformative education and lifelong learning.

Kochakorn Khattapan-Acidre is Centre Deputy Director at SEAMEO INNOTECH with over 15 years of experience in education, ASEAN affairs, and international cooperation. Formerly with Thailand’s Ministry of Education and the Thai National Commission for UNESCO, she has led initiatives in educational development, ASEAN affairs, and foreign relations. A strong advocate of innovation and regional collaboration, she promotes technology integration in classrooms through partnerships and activities such as robotics competitions and youth summits.

Currently a PhD candidate in Development Administration, she also holds degrees in International Relations and French from Thammasat University. Since 2023, she has lived in the Philippines.

Dr. Guevara began her career as a public school teacher and later served as Undersecretary of Finance under President Ramos, followed by her work as a tax advisor for the IMF. She co-founded Synergeia to help every Filipino child finish elementary education and has received multiple awards for her integrity and leadership in public finance and education. She currently teaches at the Ateneo School of Government and serves as a trustee in several development foundations.

Zeina Chalich is a distinguished educational leader, learning designer, and award-winning international speaker recognized as one of Australia’s Most Influential Educators and a finalist for Principal of the Year (Non-Government). Co-founder of AussieED and Network Lead for WomenED Australia, she holds a Bachelor of Education and a Master’s in Education Leadership from ACU.

Passionate about innovation, excellence, and equity, Zeina now serves as Education Consultant for APAC Britannica, where she partners with government agencies, school leaders, and educators to transform learning experiences, championing equitable learning, digital literacy, and continuous professional growth for the next generation of problem-solvers.

Dr. Ester B. Ogena is a distinguished educator, researcher, and former President of Philippine Normal University (PNU). She previously served as Director of the Science Education Institute under the Department of Science and Technology and currently holds key roles in national education policy and development, including as a member of EDCOM2, Vice President of FUSE, and consultant to the Teacher Education Council.

She is actively involved in leadership and teaching with institutions such as Asian Institute of Management, PNU, and the Research Institute on Teacher Quality. Dr. Ogena has also led regional efforts in education as founding president of ASTEN, recognized by ASEAN, and established several national teacher education networks.

She holds degrees in Mathematics Education from PNU and UP, with further training from institutions in France, Germany, and South Korea. Dr. Ogena has received numerous prestigious awards, including the TOWNS Award, Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award, and recognition from ASEAN in 2024 for her leadership in teacher education across the region.

Dr. Mike Rapatan, Consultant of PEAC for JHS INSET, is an associate professor at De La Salle University Manila and former Director of CREM and ASIST. He co-authored key quality assurance instruments including the 2018 and 2024 JHS Certification Assessment Instruments, the 2020 SHS CAI, and the 2022 SQAI-ES. A magna cum laude graduate of DLSU in Communication, he earned master’s degrees from Stanford University and Columbia University, where he also completed his Doctor of Education in Communication, Computing, and Technology in Education. Dr. Rapatan is recognized for advancing educational quality through research, innovation, and instructional technology.

Prof. Christian Bryan S. Bustamante, Ph.D., is Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Full Professor 6 at San Beda University, where he also serves as Director of Governance and Quality Assurance and Data Protection Officer. He was instrumental in San Beda’s transition to university status, ISO 9001:2015 certification, and PAASCU Level III accreditation.

Beyond San Beda, he contributes as ASEAN QA Framework Reviewer, PAASCU leader, CHED NCR-RQAT member, and TUV Rheinland trainer. A Foucauldian scholar with international engagements, he has published widely and authored a textbook. He earned his Ph.D. and M.A. in Philosophy magna cum laude from UST.

Sr. Felicitas V. Bernardo, SPC is the Regional Program Director of PEAC–NCR and concurrently serves as Dean of the College of Education and Liberal Arts, and Dean of the Graduate School–College of Education at St. Paul University Manila, where she also leads the Academic Program Development and Innovation Office. A dedicated educator and leader, she plays a vital role in shaping academic programs and fostering innovation in higher education.

As Vice President of the Reading Association of the Philippines, she actively advances literacy and educational development nationwide, reflecting her strong commitment to transformative education and lifelong learning.

Dr. Jose Paulo E. Campos is the President of Emilio Aguinaldo College, UPSI Property Holdings, and UPSI Management Inc. (Pearl Manila Hotel), and serves as Director of Medical Center Manila. A Doctor of Education from the University of San Francisco, he also holds an MBA from Columbia University and a BS in Industrial Engineering from the University of the Philippines. Actively engaged in educational leadership, he is President Emeritus of PAPSCU, former Chairman of COCOPEA, and past President of SMEC. Beyond education, he serves as Honorary Consul of Nepal in Manila and President of the Cavite Historical Society, reflecting his broad civic commitment.

Fr. Daniel Franklin E. Pilario, CM, Ph.D., S.Th.D., the 7th and 3rd alumnus President of Adamson University, is a Vincentian priest, theologian, and advocate for social justice. An alumnus of Adamson and UST, with doctorates from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, he is a noted scholar, author, and editor with expertise in theology, culture, and human rights.

As professor at St. Vincent School of Theology and former DAKATEO President, he merges academic depth with pastoral ministry, including two decades of service in Payatas. A servant-leader, Fr. Pilario champions Vincentian values, urging sciences and education to confront suffering and serve the marginalized.

Dr. Gisela D.A. Luna is currently in her 4th year as President of Trinity University of Asia. A nurse by profession, she rose through the academic ranks from faculty to Dean, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and eventually University President.

She is actively engaged in quality assurance as a PAASCU accreditor, member of its Commission on Health Sciences Education, and a CHED technical evaluator for nursing.

Dr. Luna also serves as Board Secretary of the Colleges and Universities of the Anglican Communion (CUAC) and President of its Asia chapter, helping facilitate international service-learning programs. Her leadership reflects a commitment to academic excellence and holistic student formation, grounded in civic, religious, and professional involvement.

Fr. Aristotle “Ari” C. Dy, SJ, is a Filipino Jesuit priest, scholar, and educator with deep expertise in intercultural dialogue, Chinese-Filipino studies, and educational leadership. He has been the president of Ateneo de Naga University since 2024. For eleven years from 2013 to 2024, he was president of Xavier School which has two K-12 campuses and a TechVoc Senior High School Program. He has also served as president of the ERDA Tech High School in Pandacan.

Sister Maria Marissa Reyes Viri, RVM, a member of the Religious of the Virgin Mary, is a distinguished educator and leader who has combined her vocation with her profession as a pharmacist and administrator. She earned her BS and MS in Pharmacy from UST and her PhD in Education from De La Salle University, and was conferred a Doctor of Humanities, honoris causa, by Ateneo de Davao University in 2023. Currently President of the University of the Immaculate Conception, she has also served as PAASCU Vice-President and CEAP’s first woman President, exemplifying faith-driven leadership in Catholic education.

The Board of Trustees of Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) has elected Rev. Fr. Randy Jasper C. Odchigue as the new president, effective August 1, 2024, in recognition of his exemplary leadership and dedication to the university’s mission. A theologian and scholar with advanced degrees from Ateneo de Manila University and Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Fr. Odchigue has served FSUU since 2009, leading major academic, research, and development initiatives. A peace advocate, prolific writer, and educator, he has championed collaboration, innovation, and ecological stewardship. With his vision and experience, FSUU looks forward to continued growth, excellence, and transformative leadership under his stewardship.

Fr. Guillrey Anthony “Ernald” Andal, SJ is the 5th President of Ateneo de Zamboanga University, bringing over two decades of Jesuit leadership in education and ministry. A Quezon City native fluent in Tagalog and Bisaya, he entered the Society of Jesus in 2003 and was ordained in 2014. He holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership for Social Justice from Loyola Marymount University, with earlier degrees from Ateneo de Manila and Loyola School of Theology. Known for his inclusive, compassionate leadership, he engages deeply with students, blending intellectual rigor, Ignatian discernment, and personal warmth in shaping holistic, values-driven education.

Rev. Msgr. Ely Rafael D. Fuentes is a Catholic priest from the Archdiocese of Jaro, Iloilo City, and a Papal Chaplain appointed by Pope Benedict XVI. He holds degrees in Philosophy and Theology, as well as a master’s in education and a Ph.D. in Social Science from West Visayas State University.

He currently serves as School Director of the Central Cluster of Parochial Schools, Superintendent of Parochial Schools, and Chairperson of the Commission on Catholic Schools in Jaro. He is also Rector and Parish Priest of the Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Fatima and contributes to national education through roles in CEAP and as PEAC Regional Program Director for Region VI.

Fr. Karel S. San Juan SJ, President of Ateneo de Davao University, brings a rich background in academics, Jesuit vocation, service, and leadership. A cum laude BS Mathematics valedictorian of Ateneo de Manila, he earned a Master in Development Management from AIM, a Doctorate in Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University, and a summa cum laude Bachelor in Sacred Theology.

Ordained in 2010, he has held key Jesuit leadership roles and served as delegate to the 36th General Congregation in Rome. As former President of Ateneo de Zamboanga University, he steered the institution through crises and growth, embodying excellence, service, and formation.

Fr. Onofre G. Inocencio, Jr., SDB, President of the Unified TVET of the Philippines, is a distinguished educator, scholar, and advocate of elevating technical-vocational education as a dignified, transformative pathway. Reappointed in 2024 as TESDA Board Member and appointed to the Teacher Education Council, he advances national TVET policy while championing harmonization of basic, technical-vocational, and higher education. Head of Higher Education of Don Bosco Educational Centers–FIN, he integrates faith, integrity, and skills in forming competent graduates. With advanced studies from DLSU, UST, Boston University, and Wharton, his leadership spans local to global networks, shaping inclusive, collaborative, and nation-building education.

Dr. Betty Cernol-McCann, a lifelong educator and psychologist, has devoted her career to higher education, leadership, and community engagement. Beginning as a psychology and political science teacher in 1970, she later served as Chair, Dean, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Acting President at Silliman University. She also held key roles at the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia, overseeing programs across 13 countries. A registered psychologist and Outstanding Psychologist awardee, she earned her PhD in Psychology from Ateneo de Manila University. Guided by her vision of whole person education, she continues to uphold integrity, excellence, and transformative leadership.

John Nery, veteran journalist, is a columnist at Rappler and host of In the Public Square with John Nery. He convenes the Consortium on Democracy and Disinformation, sits on the boards of PCIJ and the World Justice Project, and lectures on media and politics at Ateneo de Manila University.

Formerly senior editor and columnist at the Philippine Daily Inquirer, he authored Revolutionary Spirit and Radical, with a third book forthcoming. A recipient of national and international awards, including a SOPA Award for Excellence, he has held fellowships at Harvard, ISEAS, East West Center, and other prestigious institutions worldwide.

Dr. Ivy P. Mejia, Science Education Specialist at UP NISMED, has dedicated 16 years to advancing education through curriculum development, assessment design, teacher training, and professional development. A PhD in Educational Research and Evaluation from UP, she is also a seasoned evaluation methodologist, having led studies for UNESCO, USAID, Save the Children, DFAT, PBEd, and PIDS.

Recently completing advanced studies in Public Policy with AI at NUS, she serves as lead researcher for EDCOM II on key reforms including microcredentials, middle skills, and national assessment. Dr. Mejia’s expertise in assessment, evaluation, and policy research drives evidence-based education transformation.

Matthew Christian R. Silverio is a fourth-year Bachelor in Public Administration student at City College of San Jose Del Monte and National Secretary-General of the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (SCAP). A consistent honor student, he graduated Summa Cum Laude in Senior High School. He has extensive leadership experience, serving in various student councils, youth organizations, and advocacy groups, including founding the Yakal Youth Movement. Matthew is skilled in organizing events, lobbying for student rights, and creating multimedia content. Fluent in English and Filipino, he is proficient in office applications, graphic design, and video editing, with a passion for youth empowerment and volunteerism.

Dr. Vicente B. Paqueo, Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow at PIDS and Trustee of Social Weather Stations, is an economist with a PhD from UP and former Visiting Fellow at Princeton. He taught at UP School of Economics before joining the World Bank, where he served as Lead Economist on education, health, social protection, and poverty across Asia and Latin America.

Returning to the Philippines in 2008, he has since advised PIDS, ADB, and the World Bank, producing influential research on education and social protection. Recipient of the Outstanding Young Scientist Award, he continues shaping policy through publications and national reforms.

An accomplished academic leader, he holds advanced degrees from Columbia University and Brown University. Currently Vice Chairman and President of Jose Rizal University, he also serves as President of the NCAA and sits on multiple educational boards. His past roles include leadership in CHED and PACU, contributing to national education reforms. Recognized for his service, he received the 2022 Ulirang Mandaleño Award for Education and continues to shape Philippine higher education policy and innovation.

Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, President of Batangas State University since 2014, has led transformative innovations in education, research, and technopreneurship. He established the country’s first KIST Park and multiple research hubs, elevating the university to global recognition in innovation rankings. As PASUC President, he championed SUC development and launched PISI for Industry 4.0. Honored nationally for his leadership, he also serves on the National Innovation Council, solidifying BatStateU’s status as the National Engineering University.

Reynaldo Antonio D. Laguda is a seasoned development professional with over 30 years of experience leading transformative initiatives across corporate, government, and non-profit sectors. A former Undersecretary of the Department of Education, he played a central role in implementing major education reforms and strengthening public education governance. As President and CEO of PBSP, he expanded programs on poverty reduction, health, and education, building multi-sectoral partnerships nationwide. His work also spans roles with AIIB and The Asia Foundation, focusing on education governance and sustainable development. Currently pursuing his MPA at Harvard Kennedy School, he continues to advise organizations on policy, governance, and strategic development.

Bal is a development worker with over 18 years of experience in advocacy, policy research, and project management in the non-profit sector. As Executive Director of the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), he leads efforts to advance reforms in education and workforce development. Previously PBEd’s Deputy Executive Director for Programs, he oversaw 10 national projects and led YouthWorks PH, USAID’s largest youth employability program. A former UP Visayas assistant professor in Public Administration and Governance, Bal holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of the Philippines, specializing in Public Policy and Urban Governance.