The General Board of Global Ministries (GBGM) and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) visited Wesleyan University-Philippines on July 23 and 24 to discuss the current state of Methodist education in the Philippines and identify concrete action steps for collaboration and quality assurance.GBHEM General Secretary Dr. Greg Bergquist; Senior Director of Global Education, Ministry, and Initiatives Ms. Kimberly Lord; Connectional Relations Officer Rev. Shannon Conklin- Miller; and GBGM Director of Multiethnic Ministries for Global Ministries Dr. Dana Lyles were accompanied by Rev. Connie Mella from the Union Theological Seminary and the Executive Director of the GBHEM LEAD Hub Philippines.
WUP President Judge Benjamin Turgano (Ret.) reported the initiatives of the University on protecting three important pillars for sustainability: Institutional Autonomy, Academic Freedom and Quality Assurance. Renowned curriculum expert Dr. Greg Tabios Pawilen shared the Current State and Future of Methodist Education Institutions.
The WUP Chamber Singers and WUP TELON rendered songs and presentations to entertain and welcome the guests before the sumptuous dinner at the College of Hospitality and Management. The following day, the guests had historical and cultural lessons as they visited Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine, Plaza Lucero, and the WUP Archives.
Meaningful discussions followed after presentations of WUP’s research centers and institute: Carolina L. Gozon Institute for Lifelong Learning – Director Christian Jan Fausto, Center for Indigenous Studies – Director Mizael Jay Pillagara, Prudencia L. Fabro Center for Lay Leadership and Development – Deputy Director Chita Framo, and the Asia Center for Wesleyan Studies – Director Dick Eugenio.
The GBGM and GBHEM assured WUP of their support to the University’s initiatives, programs,
and innovations.
Article by Prof. April Macan Photos by Ms. Izza Gabrieli Capia and Rev. Dr. Cristine Atrero
