DAP-Graduate School of Public and Development Management (GSPDM) Dean Lizan E. Perante-Calina delivered an insightful discussion at the Newly-Elected Officials Performing Leadership for Uplifting Service (NEO PLUS) Program held on August 22, 2025 at the Garden Orchid Hotel & Resort.

In her presentation on “Strategic Management and Futures Thinking: Embracing Uncertainty”, Dean Perante-Caline underscored the crucial role of strategic and futures-oriented leadership in navigating today’s complex challenges.

“Megatrends are not distant threats but current realities with cascading consequences across every sector, including education. That is why we need more than adaptation: we need anticipation. Futures Thinking moves us beyond reacting to change, equipping us to anticipate, imagine, and shape what comes next,” she emphasized.

The NEO PLUS Program serves as an introductory course on strategic leadership for re-elected officials and was attended by distinguished leaders, including Assistant Regional Director Engr. Carmelo Enrique B. Libot, Local Government Capability and Development Division Chief Alvin Rex M. Lucero, and Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Director Oliver B. Ombos.

Dean Perante-Calina also attended an exploratory meeting with representatives from the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), including WMSU President Dr. Ma. Carla Ochotorena; University Center for Local Governance Director Dr. Bernard Q. Suriaga; Assistant Professor II Cedrick Zabala; University and Board Secretary and University Action Center Director Dr. Al-Ghani D. Mohammad; CPADS on concurrent Director OIC-Dean and Quality Assurance Center Office and Chair of the ISA Dr. Sarah S. Taupan; and Assistant Professor IV Emerissa Jane L. Tendero. During the exploratory meeting, the DAP-GSPDM officially turned over its knowledge products, notably its research compendium.