𝐃𝐀𝐂𝐔𝐍 𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝟐𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲

Reaffirming its commitment to collaborative growth, the Davao Colleges and Universities Network (DACUN) conducted its 21st general assembly with the theme “Strengthening Roots, Reaching New Heights” at the University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) Bajada Campus on July 17.

The program formally began with a processional, invocation, and the entrance of colors, followed by the national anthem performed by the Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC) chorale.

HCDC Sinag Culture and Arts Collective opened the celebration with a Maranao Suite that set the cultural tone of the event.

Following the welcome address, San Pedro College Culture and Arts Coordinator Roy Villanueva introduced guest speaker Christopher Pio Pulido, who represented Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region 11 Director Maricar Casquejo.

Pulido shared the latest developments in higher education, including CHED’s policy directions and recognitions earned by local institutions.

“Our shared commitment nurtures our foundations while aspiring for greater innovation,” he said, emphasizing the role of higher education institutions (HEI) in advancing education reforms.

DACUN President Vicente Antonio Pijano III delivered the president’s report, outlining the year’s accomplishments and affirming continuity in leadership with the re-election of incumbent officers.

He also highlighted network milestones, such as the first DACUN Student Community Extension Services Congress and the first academic, cultural, and sports competition.

“We have built a resilient network guided by trust and collaboration,” Pijano said.

Through an audiovisual presentation, committees presented their plans and accomplishments, including San Pedro College’s community outreach and the 16th Philippine Book, Information Science, Technology (Phil-BIST) Conference and Fair hosted by the Philippine Women’s College of Davao.

During dinner, students from various institutions showcased cultural and artistic performances, including vocal solos, a vocal duet, a saxophone solo, and a standard Latin dancesport exhibition.

Jamie Sofia Mangaoil from SPC performed a vocal solo of Ang Maya by Jose Estella.

The Lakad Diwa fashion segment featured delegates in Filipiñana and regional formal wear, with winners recognized for their presence and style.

Awardees included Roy Villanueva (Male Headturner), Annaliza Castro (Female Headturner), Benz Garay (Male Best Dressed), Marilyn Nebria (Female Best Dressed), Reynald Japay (Gentleman of the Night), and Maria Julieta Torres (Lady of the Night).

Newly elected officers took their oath before the assembly in a formal induction led by the DACUN President.

Meanwhile, the Library Committee was named as the most active for the year, followed by Student Affairs, Community Extension, Culture and Arts, and Internationalization and Linkages.

Looking ahead, Pijano reminded the network of its shared responsibility to grow with intention and impact.

“I challenge the committees to dare to dream bigger; to push the envelope higher for the next level of growth,” he said.

In line with DACUN’s direction, committees are expected to continue initiatives on community outreach, inter-institutional collaboration, and international partnerships in the upcoming academic year.

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