Southern Leyte State University—On July 24, 2025, the higher education institution (HEI) officials, student leaders, and campus journalists from across Eastern Visayas (Region VIII) gathered at the Saint Paul School of Professional Studies (SPSPS) in Palo, Leyte, for a crucial consultative meeting, where the assembly aimed to address key challenges and developments within the education sector.

Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" Aguirre Aquino VI is known for his strong advocacy for accessible education and is widely recognized as the principal sponsor and co-author of the landmark Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (R.A. 10931), which provides free tuition in state universities and colleges, including Southern Leyte State University.

Originally, Senator Aquino IV was slated to attend the event. However, unforeseen weather conditions led to the cancellation of his flight. In his stead, Marco Javelosa represented the senator and participated in the discussions.

The meeting provided a platform for participants to engage in productive dialogues concerning various critical aspects of higher education. Topics and concerns included current higher education policies, the allocation of government budgets for educational initiatives, pressing student concerns—especially the safety and protection of student journalists—and strategies to enhance the learning competencies of Filipino students.

Notable school officials attended the gathering, demonstrating strong regional participation. Among those present were Dr. Victor Cañezo, President of Biliran Province State University (BiPSU); Dr. Dennis C. De Paz, President of Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU); Dr. Gil Nicetas B. Villarimo, President of Leyte Normal University (LNU); and Dr. Redentor S. Palencia, President of Samar State University (SSU).

Also in attendance were Eunice T. Tudtud-Pagatpat, President of Saint Paul School of Professional Studies (SPSPS); Dr. Rustico Balderian, President of Colegio de Sta. Lourdes of Leyte Foundation Inc.; and Raquel Cecilia S. Chua, School Director of ACLC College Tacloban, underscoring the broad representation from both public and private institutions.

Attending the event from SLSU-Maasin City Campus were Miss Aster Lynn P. Reoma, SAS Head; Mr. Joseph B. Nantes, Scholarship Coordinator; Ryan Christopher S. Escaner, SSC President; and Sophia Marie T. Calatrava, Pulse Publication Representative. They were accompanied by faculty and student representatives from the Sogod, San Juan, Bontoc, and Tomas Oppus campuses.

The dialogue emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the complexities of the Philippine education landscape, mostly concerning Eastern Visayas, which is far from the country's capital. The event ended with a photo opportunity with the speaker, guests, and the delegates from different colleges and universities in Region VIII.

(via Sophia Marie T. Calatrava | Pulse)

(Photos by Sophia Marie T. Calatrava | Pulse)