September 17, 2025 The Albay Astrodome in Legazpi City hosted the 2025 Regional Pre-Service Teacher Education Congress, organized by CODTE V (Council of Deans for Teacher Education, Region V). Themed “Preparing Future Educators for an AI-Driven World,” the congress aimed to equip future teachers with insights and readiness to face the challenges and opportunities of integrating artificial intelligence into teaching. During the event, the Tanghalang CODTE was formally launched, followed by a cultural showcase highlighting the rich festivals of the Bicol region.
Debesmscat’s College of Education was well represented at this landmark event. Attending were:
- Dr. Raiza M. Padasas, Dean of the College of Education
- Faculty members Ms. Norie-Ar M. Sola, Ms. Editha Medina, Ms. Janette Solinap, Mr. Arsernio Ocariza, and Mr. Jessie Magalang
- 18 students from the teacher education programs, with 2 student representatives selected from each program
Highlights & Participation
- Active Engagement in Congress Sessions
The faculty and students from Debesmscat participated actively in plenary talks, panel discussions, and workshops centered on AI literacy, pedagogical innovation, ethics, and preparing future educators for AI-rich classrooms. - Networking and Collaboration
The congress provided an excellent platform for forging connections with other Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) across Bicol. Debesmscat delegates engaged in dialogues on best practices, cross-institutional partnerships, and collaborative initiatives to strengthen teacher education in the AI era. - Cultural Showcase via Tanghalang CODTE
In the afternoon, Debesmscat’s representatives joined the Tanghalang CODTE Bicol festival showcase, presenting creative performances that celebrated the province’s heritage, costumes, music, and dance. This segment underscored the theme’s balance between technological advancement and cultural identity. - Reflections on AI in Teacher Education
For many delegates, the event was a timely reminder of the evolving landscape of education. Discussions emphasized how pre-service teachers must develop AI literacy, understand ethical implications of AI use, and master pedagogical strategies that integrate AI meaningfully rather than superficially.
Key Takeaways
- The intersection of education and AI is no longer future speculation, but an urgent call for curriculum reform, faculty development, and student preparation.
- Embedding AI in teacher training requires more than tools—it calls for fostering critical thinking, ethical awareness, and adaptive pedagogy.
- Cultural identity and local heritage remain essential; integrating technology should not erode but rather enrich regional values and expressions.
- The collaborative spirit among TEIs in Bicol through CODTE V can accelerate the collective capacity-building needed in this transition.
Moving Forward
Debesmscat’s participation signals commitment to staying ahead in teacher education. The College of Education plans to:
- Integrate modules on AI literacy and ethics into existing courses
- Provide faculty training on AI-enhanced pedagogy
- Engage students in hands-on AI applications in teaching and learning
- Expand partnerships with other TEIs to co-host workshops, seminars, and projects in AI and education
The 2025 Regional Pre-Service Teacher Education Congress was more than a gathering — it was a clarion call to nurture educators who can lead in an AI-augmented future without losing the heart of human teaching and cultural roots.
Ladies and gentlemen,
