Josephine C. Leysa, DILG Assistant Secretary, Delivers Keynote Address, Highlights Day 1 of the Marist Educators Congress 2026

KORONADAL CITY — The Marist Educators Congress 2026 kicked off its first day with a powerful call to service and faith, headlined by a keynote address from Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Assistant Secretary Josephine C. Leysa.

Speaking to a packed assembly of educators, institutional leaders, and government partners, Asec. Leysa delivered a deeply personal reflection on her nearly 45 years of government service, emphasizing that the foundations of her leadership were built long ago within the halls of a Catholic education.

A Journey Guided by Faith

In a speech that was as much a testimony as it was a keynote, Asec. Leysa shared the realities of her long career in the public eye. She described her path not as a "walk in the park," but as a road marked by seasons of struggle and uncertainty.

"There were moments of uncertainty, times of disappointment, and many instances when I asked myself if I was good enough," Leysa shared. "But even in those moments, I held on to a simple truth... Colossians 3:23: 'Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.'"

She noted that this spiritual anchor allowed her to navigate the highs and lows of public service, ensuring her work gained meaning "far beyond ourselves."

The Anatomy of Success

Moving from her personal journey to the specific mission of the congress, Asec. Leysa spoke to the "silent" work that happens behind every academic achievement. She reminded the audience that passing rates and topnotchers are merely the visible "backdrop" of a much deeper ecosystem.

"Behind every passer is a story of discipline, sacrifice, and perseverance," Leysa noted. "Behind every topnotcher is a long journey of hard work, silent prayers, and countless hours of preparation."

She argued that while these results are important, the leadership behind them is even more critical. She defined meaningful success as something that occurs when institutions choose to lead well, creating a culture where excellence is expected, innovation is a real response to learner needs, and compassion is never lost.

Leadership Through Innovation and Inclusion

Defining her specific style of leadership, Asec. Leysa introduced a framework for modern governance and education: Leadership through innovation and inclusion, guided by faith.

Innovation: She challenged the educators to embrace change, stating that "we cannot answer present challenges by remaining comfortable with the old ways alone."

Inclusion: She emphasized that "meaningful progress can never be built by one person only," calling for a collaborative spirit between the government and the educational sector.

A Tribute to Alma Mater and the Filipino Learner

As a "daughter of Notre Dame," Asec. Leysa turned her attention to the educators in the room, thanking them for building the minds and hearts of the youth. She offered a stirring message directly to the Filipino learners, reminding them that they are not just the "future" of the nation, but its "present strength."

Reflecting on her own formation, she credited her alma mater for planting the seeds of faith, discipline, integrity, excellence, and service—values she has carried throughout her four-and-a-half decades in the DILG.

"Whatever I have achieved, and whatever I have been blessed to contribute in public service, has been deeply influenced by the formation I received here," she concluded.

Setting the Tone for 2026

The opening day of the Marist Educators Congress 2026 has set a high bar for the remainder of the event. Asec. Leysa’s address served as a reminder that for educators and public servants alike, the ultimate goal is to honor one's roots through a life of sincere and faithful service.

The congress continues through the week, focusing on the evolving landscape of Catholic education in the Philippines and the integration of faith-based values in a rapidly changing world.