PAFTE-CAR STUDENTS’ CONGRESS 2026

The College of Teacher Education of Cordillera Career Development College(CCDC)actively participated in the Philippine Association for Teachers and Educators – Cordillera Administrative Region (PAFTE–CAR) STUDENTS’ CONGRESS on January 16, 2026 at the Ebenezer Convention Center, King’s College of the Philippines, Pico, La Trinidad, Benguet. Education students, pre-service teachers, and future educators were warmly invited to participate in the congress, which was themed “𝚂𝚞𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐, 𝙶𝚞𝚛𝚘! 𝙿𝚛𝚎𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙵𝚞𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚎 𝙴𝚍𝚞𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚗 𝙴𝚟𝚘𝚕𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙴𝚍𝚞𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚊𝚕 𝙻𝚊𝚗𝚍𝚜𝚌𝚊𝚙𝚎.” The Dean, Dr. Juvy O. Baso, and the department’s program coordinators namely, Dr. Arlene L.Palasico, Mr.Jeff J. Abanag, Mr. Laurence T. Ablaza, and Ms. Marfrelyn H. Angyatao, were with fifty 4th-year pre-service teachers of CCDC in this congress. Other pre-service teachers who attended were from 12 universities and colleges: Benguet State University, Kings College of the Philippines, Easter College of the Philippines, Kalinga State University, Apayao State University, Saint Louis University, University of Baguio, Baguio Central University, University of the Cordilleras, Mountain Province State University, Ifugao State University, and Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology.

The Students’ Congress aimed to inspire, empower, and prepare future teachers by providing a venue for meaningful discussions, professional enrichment, and collaboration with fellow education students and mentors. The event also showcased talented pre-service teachers who shared their talents in singing and dancing during intermission numbers. It featured engaging talks, interactive sessions, and shared experiences, composed of six sessions with different speakers who facilitated each discussion, sharing their knowledge.

Highlights of the Sessions

Session 1 focused on the importance of attending trainings and seminars for pre-service teachers. The discussion emphasized that these experiences serve as a foundation in shaping effective educators capable of delivering quality service to learners. Participation in Department of Education activities was highlighted as a significant factor that reflects both individual performance and institutional reputation. Pre-service teachers were reminded that during internships, they represent not only themselves but also their respective institutions. The session also provided a glimpse into the future of teacher education, life after graduation, and the realities of the teaching profession, including essential preparations such as understanding the Table of Specifications and readiness for the PRC Licensure Examinations.

Session 2 emphasized that teachers are partners in nation-building. The discussion centered on learner-centered pedagogies and the role of teachers in the 21st century as mentors and facilitators rather than mere dispensers of information. Teachers were encouraged to inspire critical thinking, ignite curiosity, and help learners express their abilities. Understanding learners’ backgrounds and interests was highlighted as a key component of effective teaching and educational leadership, especially in navigating the K to 12 curricula.

Session 3 presented an interactive and engaging approach by simulating an actual classroom setting. This method allowed pre-service teachers to better understand the topic, “Real-World Readiness: Effective Strategies in Demonstration Teaching.” Creativity, adaptability, and selecting appropriate teaching strategies for diverse learners were emphasized as essential components of effective instruction.

Session 4 focused on navigating the K to 12 curricula, nurturing well-rounded learners, and understanding recent curriculum enhancements. The session highlighted that while technology and programs are helpful, the most important instructional resource will always be the teacher. Understanding the curriculum as a planned and sequenced set of learning experiences enables educators to align teaching strategies with learners’ needs and develop essential 21st-century skills.

Session 5 centered on professional polish, communication, confidence, and personal branding for a successful internship. It emphasized that intelligence alone is not enough if one cannot communicate effectively. Teachers were reminded that how they speak, dress, and present themselves influences how learners perceive them. The discussion on personal branding highlighted four key elements: authenticity, consistency, value proposition, and visibility. The session served as a call to action for future educators to continuously refine their communication skills, build confidence, and be intentional in their personal and professional growth.

Session 6 concluded the congress with a discussion on tech-powered evaluation and the integration of technology in building 21st-century competencies in assessment. The session highlighted that technology, social media, and artificial intelligence challenge traditional teaching methods because learners today have greater access to information and opportunities for independent exploration. The discussion emphasized that assessment must evolve, pedagogy should guide technology use, and evaluation should focus on what learners can do.

Whether using traditional assessments or technology-enhanced tools, the goal remains the same, i.e., to positively impact learners by fostering engagement, growth, and continuous improvement. Technology and AI are not replacements for teachers; rather, they are tools that can enhance teaching and learning when used creatively and responsibly. If educators continue to improve themselves professionally, technology will serve as a guide that empowers learners rather than an excuse for complacency.

-Sacla, Tzietel Jade D.

4^th yr Pre-service Teacher – CCDC

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