COTABATO CITY — Educators and administrators from Oblate educational institutions across the country convened for the 1st OMI Schools Summit held at Notre Dame University (NDU) from May 21 to 23, 2026, in celebration of the OMI Bicentennial Jubilee and the enduring mission of Oblate education.
Carrying the theme, “OMI200: Celebrating the OMI Bicentennial Jubilee, Sharing in the OMI Mission,” the summit served as a platform for collaboration, leadership development, and institutional partnership among OMI schools nationwide. The gathering commemorated 200 years of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate while reaffirming the commitment of Oblate institutions to faith-driven and mission-centered education.
Representing Notre Dame of Jolo College (NDJC) in the summit were College President Rev. Fr. Ross B. Kapunan, OMI; Vice President for Administration Dr. Raymond Rasul de los Reyes; Vice President for Finance Dr. Salvador S. Zacarias; Research office director Dr. Edgar Acevedo; Human Resource Management Officer Ms. Janice Neth Jalali; Senior High School Principal Ms. Mary Queen Z. Loria; and Representative from the Registrar’s office Ms. Gloria Alarcon.
Joining them were delegates from Notre Dame University, Notre Dame of Greater Manila, Notre Dame of Midsayap College, and Notre Dame of Kulaman. Together, they engaged in discussions focused on the future of OMI education and the continuing role of Catholic institutions in forming learners grounded in faith, service, and academic excellence.
The summit formally opened with messages from university and OMI leaders, setting the tone for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. Participating institutions then presented their leadership initiatives, academic programs, and community engagement efforts, showcasing innovative practices and mission-oriented approaches within their respective schools.
Open forums and collaborative discussions provided opportunities for delegates to exchange insights, address contemporary educational challenges, and reflect on shared experiences in sustaining Catholic and Oblate education amid changing times.
A significant highlight of the gathering was the celebration of the culmination of the OMI Bicentennial Jubilee, the Feast Day of St. Eugene de Mazenod, founder of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, and the 40th Religious Profession Anniversary of NDU President Rev. Fr. Francis Efren C. Zabala, OMI, DMin.
The commemorative celebration featured tribute presentations and cultural performances honoring Fr. Zabala’s four decades of dedicated service to the Church, education, and the Oblate mission. Reflecting on the occasion, he emphasized gratitude for God’s faithfulness throughout the years and encouraged the OMI community to persevere in carrying forward the mission despite challenges and uncertainties.
On the second day, breakout sessions and institutional sharing further deepened conversations on leadership, innovation, and collaboration among OMI schools. Delegates explored strategies for strengthening educational programs, fostering community engagement, and ensuring that Catholic education remains responsive to contemporary realities while remaining rooted in its mission and values.
More than a gathering of institutions, the summit became a testament to the enduring spirit of the Oblate mission. It highlighted how OMI schools continue to honor their shared heritage, respond to emerging educational needs, and cultivate communities shaped by faith, service, and transformative learning.
As the summit concluded, participants departed with renewed commitment to strengthening partnerships among OMI institutions and advancing a collective vision of education that forms competent, compassionate, and mission-oriented leaders for the future.
