TSU-OIAL and TSU-CPath Scholars attends 3rd National Complementary Pathways Gathering

Tarlac State University–Office of International Affairs and Linkages (TSU-OIAL) attended the 3rd National Complementary Pathways Gathering together with the TSU-CPath Scholars at the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod City on January 7–9, 2026.

The gathering officially opened on January 7, with Pathways Pilipinas—a consortium of eight higher education institutions (HEIs) in the country, including TSU as the first and only state university member—convening at the University of St. La Salle Bacolod to begin the three-day event.

The first day started with remarks from Atty. Arvin L. Chan, Chief Counsel and Department Head of the Department of Justice–Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Unit, who emphasized the program’s mission: “Our work ensures protection and opportunity for those who need it most.”

Br. Joaquin Severino S. Martinez, President of the University of St. La Salle, welcomed the delegates, saying, “We are glad to host this gathering and strengthen our shared commitment to inclusivity.”

Ms. Lindsey Atienza, Head of the Protection Unit of UNHCR Philippines, delivered a brief message highlighting the value of education: “Education remains a lifeline and a pathway to hope.”

The first day concluded with a set of fun games participated in by member universities and CPath scholars—an activity aimed at fostering camaraderie and strengthening networks among Pathways Pilipinas members. A warm dinner prepared by the host university closed the evening. 

The second day of the 3rd National Complementary Pathways Gathering opened with key updates and a program briefer on the CPath Programme delivered by member agencies of the Inter-Agency on the Complementary Pathways Programme (IACCP) and Pathways Pilipinas.

Guardians and CPath scholars also attended a session on Financial Literacy and Stewardship led by Dr. Jose Teody Cabantug of the Yu-An Log College of Business and Accountancy. “Financial responsibility empowers scholars to make informed decisions that support their future,” he said.

In the afternoon, the program continued with a lecture by Dr. Rebecca Lanes, Director of the Guidance and Evaluation Center of the University of St. La Salle. Dr. Lanes began by sharing her personal experiences working with refugees in the early 1980s. Following her talk, CPath scholars were invited to participate in one-on-one assessments with her.

Day 2 concluded with friendly game matchups in pickleball and soccer, with guardians of CPath scholars from various schools across the country taking part.

The final day of the 3rd National Complementary Pathways Gathering in Bacolod brought together the Tarlac State University delegates from the Office of International Affairs and Linkages and the TSU-CPath scholars.

Day 3 opened with a session on Resource Mobilization Strategy led by Atty. Arvin L. Chan, who discussed practical approaches to maximizing available resources to ensure the sustainability of the Complementary Pathways Programme. In the same session, Ms. Norielyn Cullar-Tabag, Director of Community Engagement Center, presented San Beda University’s best practices in managing resources for their own CPath Programme.

CPath scholars also took the stage to share their personal experiences prior to seeking refuge in the Philippines. They recounted life in camps and narrated how the persecution of the Rohingya people began, offering participants deeper insight into their struggles and the circumstances that brought them to the country.

The third day concluded with a Bacolod–Silay tour, where scholars and stakeholders explored the city’s heritage sites and learned about its rich history and culture.

All CPath scholars and guardians were scheduled to return to their respective homes the following day.