As part of this year’s National Teachers’ Month celebration, the Teacher Education Council (TEC) hosted the “Celebrating Teacher Excellence” event on September 30, 2026. This gathering recognized outstanding educators and institutions for their invaluable contributions to the development of quality teacher education in the country.

The event was highlighted by a grand awarding ceremony spotlighting the recipients of various honors, most notably the designation of Teacher Education Centers of Excellence (COEs). Mandated under Republic Act No. 11713—the Excellence in Teacher Education Act—these COEs are set to operate as strategic hubs aimed at elevating educator training nationwide. These institutions are tasked with addressing persistent sector challenges by providing technical assistance to the Teacher Education Council (TEC) and other teacher education institutions, particularly in curriculum development and capacity building. Ultimately, the government envisions these COEs as vital partners in advancing the National Education Agenda and cultivating a higher standard of academic excellence.

Multiple Philippine Normal University (PNU) campuses received this honor, a testament to the institution’s continued standard of academic leadership. PNU North Luzon joins seven other higher education institutions in the prestigious group of Regional COEs, while PNU Mindanao and PNU Manila were officially designated as National COEs. National COEs are institutions expected to steer discussions on teacher education on a national scale through their best practices and capabilities, while Regional COEs are institutions that will be at the helm of movements to improve teacher education within their respective regions. Receiving the award on behalf of PNU North Luzon is Executive Director and Provost, Dr. Agnes S. Reyes, while PNU Mindanao accepts its award through Executive Director and Provost, Dr. Adelyne C. Abrea. Accepting the recognition for PNU Manila as the top COE is University President, Dr. Bert J. Tuga.

Another unique part of the Teachers’ Day celebration was the launch of the Teacher Education Scholarship Program. Initially awarded to 720 students pursuing teacher education degrees, the scholarship recognizes that developing exceptional teachers requires providing access to high-quality education and training. At PNU Manila alone, 84 students majoring in Early Childhood Education (BECEd), Special Needs Education (BSNEd), and Values Education (BVE) are set to receive comprehensive scholarship packages. This initiative guarantees substantial financial backing to sustain these future educators through the completion of their academic programs and professional licensure examinations.

In his message, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored that strengthening and supporting teacher capabilities is essential to improving Philippine education, highlighting the need to celebrate excellence where it matters most—the Filipino teachers.