LUNA, Apayao – The Department of Education (DepEd)- Schools Division Office (SDO) Apayao concluded its annual Apayao Education Summit and Recognition of Stakeholders on January 08, 2025 held at the Aliwa Gymnasium.
With the theme “Sustaining the Gains of Partnerships: Ensuring Quality Education in Apayao”, the summit focused on evaluating the current state of education in the province, celebrating past achievements and strategizing for future improvements.
This summit brought together educators and stakeholders with notable attendees including Apayao’s Lone District Representative Congresswoman Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang, who graced the summit. Other distinguished guests included Luna Municipal Mayor Josephine Bangsil, Board Members Emilliano Galleon and Vincent Talattag and other key figures in education and governance in Apayao. Their presence underscored the strong commitment of public servants to education.
Schools Division Superintendent Irene S. Angway, during the event, provided a comprehensive overview of the progress and challenges faced within the basic education system during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 academic year. Her presentation highlighted key achievements and identified areas requiring further attention and resource allocation to maintain the high standards of education in the Apayao’s schools.
Adding another dimension to the summit was the presentation of Dr. John Cabansag, President of the Apayao State College, who offered insights into the current state of tertiary education in the province.
Dr. Cabansag’s presentation covered the college’s achievements, challenges and future plans for providing quality higher education opportunities to Apayao’s students. He also shared that ASC will soon become Apayao State University through the help of Bulut-Begtang.
The summit included interactive sessions that fostered collaboration and open dialogue among attendees as a valuable platform for brainstorming solutions to address identified challenges and fostering innovation within the education system.
At the summit, the educators and stakeholders explored strategies for enhancing partnerships and ensuring the sustained delivery of high-quality education across all levels.
Bulut-Begtang, through insightful questioning, identified concrete strategies to address pressing concerns. This includes innovative interventions in tackling the rising number of suicide cases in the province.
Towards the end of the summit, DepEd-Apayao awarded a plaque of appreciation to the provincial government, Office of the Congresswoman, local government units and national line agencies for their steadfast support to DepEd-Apayao, especially those that contributed to the successful implementation of programs, projects, and activities.
According to Angway, the agencies donated a consolidated amount of about half billion worth of infrastructure to the DepEd-Apayao during the SY 2023-2024.
The result of the Apayao Education Summit demonstrated the province’s unwavering commitment to providing quality education and fostering a skilled workforce, which is aligned with Governor Elias Bulut Jr.’s vision to have at least one professional in every family in Apayao, signaling a promising path for more prosperous and educated yApayaos. By Krizza Joy Castillo