“It's a topic that is long overdue and still unsolvable. We've been talking about teacher education for decades. And I think it's not because we don't have a solution. It's because the world is changing faster than we [can] provide solutions.”
These words were shared by the Commission on Higher Education Commissioner, Dr. Michelle Aguilar-Ong, as she gave remarks on the challenges and impact of technology on teacher education during the National Research Conference on Teacher Education (NRCTE) 2026, hosted by Pampanga State University (Pampanga State U) at the Dr. Ernesto T. Nicdao Sports Center on October 22, 2026.
Acknowledging that technology now dictates the learning environment, rendering traditional methods less effective, Dr. Aguilar-Ong emphasized that the Philippines have a several brilliant educators.
“But the reality is that my friends, if we do not research for tomorrow, if we do not research about the future, we are irrelevant to our students of today,” she said.
Dr. Aguilar-Ong conveyed hope that the NRCTE would provide the white paper necessary to reposition teacher education for a changing future, emphasizing teacher education must adopt a different approach to align with upcoming shifts.
Meanwhile, Vice President for Research, Innovation, Training and Extension, Dr. Ranie B. Canlas mentioned in his speech that NRCTE ‘26 could create opportunities for every participating institution.
“It is a meaningful opportunity to exchange ideas, examine emerging concerns, share research-based solutions, and establish partnerships that can transform educational challenges into opportunities for growth and development,” he expressed.
Dr. Canlas highlighted the importance of research as it provides evidence necessary to understand educational realities and evaluate existing practices to develop relevant and responsive approaches.
Furthermore, University President Dr. Enrique G. Baking acknowledged that Pampanga State University recognizes its responsibility to be an active partner in the effort, noting that as an academic institution, Pampanga State U’s commitment goes beyond seeking academic excellence.
“We believe that education becomes truly transformative when research translates into practice, innovation creates opportunities, and collaboration turns shared aspiration into concrete achievements,” Dr. Baking stated.
The event was made possible through the university’s partnership with Bukidnon State University, Central Luzon State University, Mindanao State University, Sulu State University, University of Camarines Norte, and Tarlac Agricultural University.
There are 28 participating higher education institutions from across the country that sent delegations to the event.
Photo credits: Public and Media Affairs Unit
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