15/02/2026
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Held on February 13, 2026 at the USJR Coliseum, Basak Campus, the 16th Student Teachersโ Congress gathered over 4,200 student teachers from across Region VII, united by one calling, to grow into educators who teach with purpose, compassion, and competence.
The event opened with a creative and engaging welcome from CADTEC President Dr. Deleta Polinar, who introduced the focal themes of the congress: peace education, SDG 4-aligned teaching, strengthening teaching strategies, and artificial intelligence in education. This was followed by an inspiring acknowledgment from Prof. Judith Dabon, who reminded us that education is more than instruction, it is a responsibility, energizing the crowd as student teachers proudly declared: โFuture-ready educators ensuring quality education.โ
Through the introduction of speakers, Dr. Bernard S. Pantonilla emphasized that teachers are not merely transmitters of knowledge but guides who help learners navigate life. He highlighted the vision of future Filipino educators as academically capable, ethically grounded, socially responsive, and globally competitive yet proudly Filipino, leaving us with a powerful reminder: Education is powerful, but only when guided by teachers who care deeply.
In the session on Developing Peace-Centered Teaching Competencies, Mr. Jon Neil Perfecio challenged us to see teaching as a calling to build peace. He emphasized that peace begins in the classroom and within ourselves,โPeace in our country starts with you and in the lessons you teach.โ He reframed peace as โpakigdaitโ, not merely the absence of conflict, but relational harmony, reminding us that teachers are called to be peacebuilders in both word and action.
Next, Dr. Jestoni P. Babia delivered a meaningful discussion on Developing Teacher Competencies Aligned with SDG 4, stressing that quality education is not about grades but about equity, inclusion, competence, and sustainability. He highlighted the need to move beyond surface learning and ensure learning transfer that lasts. Through the introduction of the SECURE framework and engaging activities, he reminded us that true quality education transforms learners and communities.
The afternoon sessions reignited our motivation, especially through the inspiring talk of the Amazing Falculan Twins, Dr. Kathleen F. Hijosa & Dr. Theresa F. Misola, who shared a powerful blueprint for conquering the licensure journey. Their 11-step guide served as both a practical roadmap and a life philosophy:
1. Set a worthy goal
2. Identify your drive/motivation
3. Know the tasks at hand
4. Recognize your strengths and weaknesses
5. Understand your learning style
6. Set a study schedule
7. Build a buddy system
8. Believe in yourself
9. Stay humble and teachable
10. Practice self-discipline
11. Never give up
More than a guide to passing the LEPT, their message reminded us that success in teaching is rooted in discipline, perseverance, humility, and faith in oneโs purpose.
The final session on Artificial Intelligence as a Tool for Quality Education, delivered by Dr. Dave E. Marcial, expanded our understanding of innovation in teaching. He highlighted how AI, when used responsibly, can enhance learning experiences, empower educators, and support quality education in the digital age, reminding us that technology becomes meaningful only when guided by human values and educational purpose.
More than a congress, the experience was a reaffirmation of our calling. Each session reminded us that teaching is not just a profession,it is a mission to build peace, promote equity, embrace innovation, and shape the future with compassion and integrity ๐๐โจ
