The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), through the College of Education (CEd), successfully hosted the National Convention on Teacher Education organized by the Philippine Association of Pre-Service Teachers, Inc. (PAPSET) on November 29–30, 2024, at the University Social Hall, Obrero Campus. Centered on the theme, “Empowering Teachers Towards Global Citizenship,” the two-day convention gathered pre-service teachers, teacher educators, and education professionals from various higher education institutions across the country to strengthen teacher preparation and promote excellence in education.
The convention formally opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Raquel D. Almasa, Dean of the USeP College of Education, followed by an overview of PAPSET and the organization’s goals presented by Ronaldo L. Pontanosa, PAPSET President. Delivering the keynote address was Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., USeP President, who underscored the vital role of future educators in developing globally competent, innovative, and socially responsible citizens.
The first day featured plenary sessions that addressed current issues in Philippine education. Dr. Jinky B. Firman, OIC-Schools Division Superintendent of the Division of Panabo City, discussed strategies for reversing learning losses among Filipino learners through the recommendations of the EDCOM II Report. This was followed by a lecture on Responsible Netizenship Towards a Digital and Artificial Intelligence-Driven Future delivered by Dr. Randy A. Tudy, Associate Professor of the USeP College of Education, highlighting the ethical and responsible use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in education. The afternoon concluded with parallel paper presentation sessions showcasing research initiatives from participants.
On the second day, Asst. Prof. Mariche C. Llanto of the USeP College of Education delivered a plenary lecture on Celebrating Diversity in Technology-Driven Classrooms Through Culturally Responsive Teaching, emphasizing inclusive pedagogical practices that recognize learners’ diverse cultural backgrounds while integrating educational technologies. Additional paper presentations and demonstration teaching sessions provided participants with opportunities to exchange innovative teaching strategies and best practices.
The convention concluded with the Gabi ng Parangal, recognizing outstanding paper presenters, demonstration teaching participants, institutional members, host university representatives, outstanding PAPSET members, and convention participants. The closing program reaffirmed PAPSET’s commitment to advancing teacher education and fostering professional collaboration among future educators and teacher education institutions.
By hosting PAPSET 2024, USeP reinforced its commitment to producing competent, innovative, and globally responsive educators while providing a platform for meaningful academic discourse and collaboration among the country’s future teaching professionals.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): This initiative supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting excellence in teacher education and professional development, SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration among higher education institutions and professional organizations, and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by advancing discussions on digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and innovative teaching practices.
