SEAMEO INNOTECH holds turnover ceremony for new Centre Director Dr. Majah-Leah V. Ravago

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – On February 17, 2025, MANILA, PHILIPPINES – SEAMEO INNOTECH marked a new chapter in its leadership with the formal Turnover Ceremony on February 17, 2025, welcoming Dr. Majah-Leah V. Ravago as its 10th Centre Director. The event symbolized the organization’s continued commitment to educational innovation, excellence, and regional collaboration in Southeast Asia. 

The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests from key institutions, including officials from the Department of Education (DepEd): Undersecretary Ronald Mendoza (representing DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara), Assistant Secretary Roger Masapol, and Assistant Secretary Georgina Yang. Also present were leaders from SEAMEO sister Centres, including SEARCA Centre Director Glenn Gregorio, Incoming SEARCA Centre Director Mercedita Sombilla, and SEAMEO TROPMED Centre Director Dr. Fernando B. Garcia. 

DepEd Usec. Ronald Mendoza relays the speech of DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara.

In his opening message, DepEd Undersecretary Ronald Mendoza conveyed Secretary Sonny Angara’s support for the transition, expressing appreciation for former Centre Director Dr. Leonor Magtolis Briones’ leadership and confidence in Dr. Ravago’s vision for the Centre. 

“Education is ever-changing, and we are confident that with Dr. Ravago’s direction, the Centre will remain a steadfast pillar of excellence across Southeast Asia. Welcome to SEAMEO, Dr. Ravago… Nandito kami sa DepEd, handang umalalay, makinig, at sumuporta (We at DepEd are here—ready to assist, listen, and support). May you all find joy in the journey, courage in the challenges, and pride in the process we will achieve together,” he said. 

SEAMEO INNOTECH former Centre Director Leonor Magtolis Briones delivers her speech.

Following this, Dr. Leonor Magtolis Briones delivered a heartfelt speech, reflecting on key accomplishments during her tenure, including groundbreaking research on regional teacher motivation and technology-enabled early grade reading interventions. She also left a guiding message for the SEAMEO INNOTECH community, emphasizing the values of professionalism, respect, and integrity. 

“Never forget your good manners and right conduct—whether dealing with superiors, peers, or subordinates. Respect and professionalism define the strength of this institution.” 

Representing SEAMEO INNOTECH, Centre Deputy Director Kochakorn Khattapan-Acidre highlighted the significance of the turnover ceremony, emphasizing the Centre’s commitment to continuity, collaboration, and innovation as it embarks on a new chapter under fresh leadership.  

“I am confident that SEAMEO INNOTECH will emerge from this transition stronger than ever. We are committed to upholding the Centre’s legacy of excellence in innovation and technology in education. And we will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of education in the region. Welcome again, Dr. Ravago,” she said. 

Centre Deputy Director Kochakorn Khattapan-Acidre leads the turnover ceremony.

The official turnover proceeded, led by the Centre Deputy Director, marking the formal transition of leadership responsibilities to Dr. Majah-Leah V. Ravago. 

SEAMEO INNOTECH Centre Director Dr. Majah-Leah Ravago delivers her inaugural speech.

In her inaugural speech as Centre Director, Dr. Ravago articulated her vision for SEAMEO INNOTECH, reaffirming its role as a leader in education research, innovation, and regional cooperation. 

“I call upon the cooperation of each of you to be catalysts of positive change. Our journey forward is an opportunity to showcase the resilience and brilliance of our team at SEAMEO INNOTECH. Let us embrace change with enthusiasm and determination. Our success lies in the collective efforts of a dedicated team, and I have complete confidence that together, we can achieve remarkable milestones and raise the bar of excellence at SEAMEO INNOTECH,” she said. 

SEAMEO SEARCA Centre Director Glenn Gregorio delivers message of support.

SEAMEO TROPMED Centre Director Glenn Gregorio shares his supportive message.

The event concluded with messages of support from SEAMEO SEARCA Centre Director Glenn Gregorio and SEAMEO TROPMED Centre Director Fernando B. Garcia. Both expressed gratitude to former Centre Director Dr. Briones for her leadership and contributions to SEAMEO INNOTECH, while also extending their full support to Dr. Ravago as she takes on the role of Centre Director.  

As SEAMEO INNOTECH embarks on this new chapter, the Centre remains committed to developing innovative solutions, strengthening partnerships, and championing quality education for the region. With Dr. Ravago’s leadership, SEAMEO INNOTECH is poised to drive even greater impact in the field of education, ensuring a future of inclusivity, excellence, and innovation.