By Mikee Natinga Norico
On July 2, attendees of the 2nd International Doctoral Colloquium gather for a group photo at the Knowledge Development Center of the Henry Luce III Library, marking the official opening of the three-day event.
Central Philippine University (CPU) welcomed scholars and doctoral students from across Asia during the 2nd International Doctoral Colloquium organized by the Theological Education Accompaniment – Group (TEA-G). Held at the Knowledge Development Center (KDC) of the Henry Luce III Library from July 2 to 4, 2025, the event gathered around 30 participants from various theological institutions across Asia, including representatives from the Philippines, Myanmar, and India. Participating schools included Clark Theological College (India), Eastern Theological College (India), Myanmar Institute of Theology (MIT), Institute of Myanmar Graduate Studies (IMGS), Asia Baptist Graduate Theological Seminary (Baguio City), Southern Christian College (Cotabato), and Central Philippine University (Iloilo City).
Supported by the Foundation for Theological Education in Asia and the Pacific (FTEAP), the colloquium served as a platform for theological dialogue, research collaboration, and mentorship among Asian scholars. The three-day event featured plenary talks, dissertation proposal presentations, thematic workshops, and mentoring consultations aimed at fostering academic exchange and strengthening regional ties. Topics of the presentations covered a wide range of theological and ministerial concerns, including church leadership and administration, Baptist distinctive and doctrines, women and gender, eco-justice, social media, Christian education for children with special needs, and homiletics.
The event formally opened on July 2 with an opening celebration, followed by a keynote lecture delivered by Dr. Mary Ann Dela Vega of West Visayas State University (WVSU), titled “Facing the Challenges of Integration: Voices of Faith in Qualitative Inquiry and Theological Accompaniment in Education.” Her lecture set the tone for the entire program, encouraging thoughtful reflection and interdisciplinary dialogue.
From left to right: On Day 2, Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on receives his certificate of appreciation after presenting his completed dissertation entitled “A Historical Analysis of the Baptist Principle of the Local Autonomy of the Church,” together with the colloquium convenor, Dr. Bernabe Pagara, Dean of the CPU College of Theology, and TEA-G coordinators, Dr. Tinumeren Ozukum from India and Dr. Fanang Lum from Myanmar.
In the afternoon session, the first round of dissertation presentations featured Ms. N Seng Nan from Myanmar, Mr. Bendanukhi Fnu from India, and Mr. Wilson James R. Limos from the Philippines.
Day two opened with a Morning Meditation led by the Myanmar delegation. The presentations continued with Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of the CPU Office of Communications, Mr. Wanboklang Shylla from India, and Mr. Jeremias E. Castillano from the Philippines. In the afternoon, Ms. Nganchuiwon Kathing from India, Mr. Sein Bawn from Myanmar, and Mr. Issac Nirmal Kumar Sreemanthula from India presented their work.
The final day, July 4, began with a morning meditation led by the India participants, followed by presentations from Rev. Adiel Nathan Caspe, CPu Faculty College of Theology, Miss Khriekesonuo Liezietsu from India, and Ms. Naw Pwint Phyu Hla from Myanmar.
In the afternoon, presenters had the opportunity to engage in consultation sessions with professors and mentors who provided feedback and academic guidance. The event concluded with Closing Rites and the awarding of certificates to all facilitators and presenters in recognition of their academic contributions.
Beyond the formal sessions, participants also took part in small group discussions organized according to their research interests. These allowed for deeper academic engagement and strengthened bonds between institutions and cultures.
The TEA-G 2nd International Doctoral Colloquium marked a significant step in advancing theological education and research collaboration across Asia. By hosting the event, Central Philippine University reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence, theological dialogue, and its active role in the global faith and education community.