October 22-25, 2025, at Mariano Marcos State University in Batac City, Ilocos Norte, the Service Learning for English Teachers (SLET) Program brought together 40 educators from across the Philippines for workshops, cultural immersions, and collaborative exchanges.

Ms. Chesa R. Filosofo, a faculty member from the College of Arts, Sciences and Education, was one of the selected participants from the Visayas, representing a fully funded professional development opportunity sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Regional English Language Office (RELO).

The program focused on Project-Based Learning, service learning integration, and student-centered approaches, emphasizing cross-cultural understanding. Ms. Filosofo reflected that the experience was a celebration of culture, collaboration, and lifelong learning, inspiring educators to foster innovative, inclusive, and culturally responsive teaching. It reinforced the vital role of language teachers as cultural bridges and impactful educators.