DEBESMSCAT’s Cultural Exchange Begins: Joining SEA-Teacher Project- The First in Masbate

Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) has taken a historic step towards global engagement by participating in the SEA-Teacher Project for the first time. This prestigious initiative, organized by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), marks DEBESMSCAT’s debut in the world educational exchange programs. The SEA-Teacher Project, aims to revitalize teacher education across Southeast Asia. DEBESMSCAT’s involvement in the project’s 10th batch showcases its commitment to enhance global education and promote cross-cultural understanding among future educators from DEBESMSCAT.

DEBESMSCAT’s journey with the SEA-Teacher Project began through the leadership of the SUC President III, Dr. Arnel B. Millesca. As part of this collaboration, DEBESMSCAT is hosting inbound student teachers from Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ), Indonesia, for cultural immersion and teaching experience. To support this initiative, the college has established local partnerships, including an agreement with the Department of Education (DepEd) Masbate Province, allowing visiting students to practice in identified cooperating schools – Cabitan Central School and Federico A. Estipona Memorial High School (FAEMHS). The program focuses on developing teaching skills, improving English proficiency, broadening regional perspectives, and exposing future teachers to diverse educational settings.

The Opening Ceremony of the SEA Teachers Project Batch 10 was held on March 04, 2025 at the College Function Hall, marking the beginning of a one month cultural immersion and teaching experience for 3 Inbound Students from Universitas Negeri Jakarta. The ceremony was attended by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Elreen A. Delavin, Dean of the College of Education Dean, Dr. Raiza M. Padasas, International Relations Officer Ms. Nikki Faith A. Bantillo, SDO Masbate Province represented by Atty. Melody A. Vargas, School heads and teachers of Cabitan Central School and Federico A. Estipona Memorial High School, program chairpersons, faculty and students. The program began with a warm welcome address by Dr. Elreen A. Delavin Vice President for Academic Affairs of DEBESMSCAT, who expressed gratitude to the inbound students, to the partner schools and to the working committee who made the project possible. The highlight of the ceremony was a cultural presentation highlighting the rich heritage of Masbate, featuring traditional dances, music, and costumes. DepEd Masbate Province represented by Atty. Melody A. Vargas expressed support in the program highlighting the importance of collaboration between the two universities in providing insights on various pedagogies that would contribute to the development of the quality of education being provided to the Masbateno learners. The activity ended with a closing remarks from the Dean of the College of Education, Dr. RaizaM. Padasas expressing gratitude to everyone who has made this momentous event possible.

The SEA Teachers Project Batch 10 is a collaborative undertaking between DEBESMSCAT-Universitas Negeri Jakarta and SEAMEO, aimed at promoting cultural exchange, teaching excellence, and global citizenship. The project is expected to run until March 24,2025 with various activities and events lined up to provide the participants with a holistic and enriching experience of the Filipino culture. by IRO