Filipino pre-service teachers from the Philippine Normal University (PNU) demonstrated excellence, resilience, and global competence as they played a vital role in the success of the 2026 American Language Village (ALV) Winter Camp Teaching Internship Program in Taiwan, held from January 24 to February 2, 2026. Through dedication and innovation, these future educators helped transform English learning into a meaningful, immersive, and life-changing experience for young Taiwanese learners.
Following a rigorous selection process that involved interviews and intensive training, outstanding PNU students were deployed to partner schools in Kaohsiung and Taipei. In Kaohsiung, they were assigned to the Affiliated Experimental Elementary School of National Pingtung University, while in Taipei, selected Filipino pre-service teachers served at Sin Shih Elementary School in Hsinchu County.
The Filipino pre-service teachers assigned to Kaohsiung included Gwyne Jims Zoe Chae M. Gealon, a Bachelor in English Education student from PNU Manila; Anthony Mathew M. Puracan, a Bachelor in Social Studies Education student from PNU Mindanao; and Niña Ayella C. Ramil, a Bachelor in Early Childhood Education student from PNU North Luzon. They were accompanied by Ms. Mary Judea B. Caballero of the Linkages and International Office, who provided guidance and institutional support throughout the program.
As part of their international engagement, the Kaohsiung-based delegates visited one of PNU’s partner institutions in Taiwan, Tzu Hui Institute of Technology, where they were warmly welcomed by university officials, faculty, and staff led by President Dr. Yueh-Yang Chen. Through campus tours and school immersion activities, the participants gained valuable insights into Taiwan’s academic environment, facilities, and educational practices, further strengthening institutional partnerships and professional networks.
Meanwhile, the Filipino pre-service teachers assigned to Taipei were Dianne A. Diamada, a Bachelor of Elementary Education student from PNU Mindanao; Jesadel O. Luces, a Bachelor of Science in Master of Arts student from PNU Manila; Bridget T. Pajaroja, a Bachelor of Elementary Education student from PNU Manila; and James Nathaniel A. Ramos, a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education student from PNU North Luzon. They were accompanied by Dr. Julievic D. Palting, Director of the Student Affairs and Services Unit (SASU) of PNU North Luzon.
Together, the Kaohsiung and Taipei delegates actively facilitated interactive lessons, guided discussions, and learner-centered activities that strengthened students’ English proficiency, confidence, and interpersonal communication skills. From the opening day, learners were immersed in an English-only “Village,” where communication was encouraged through social bonding, collaborative games, and guided interactions—an approach that lowered anxiety and promoted spontaneous language use.
The program emphasized Functional Life Skills and Practical Pragmatics, enabling learners to apply English in real-life situations such as shopping, customer service, and restaurant simulations. One of the core modules, Supermarket and Consumerism, allowed students to interpret product labels, manage prices and quantities, and understand advertisements, reinforcing the relevance of language learning through hands-on, real-world experiences.
To further enrich language acquisition, the curriculum integrated interdisciplinary themes across subject areas. Art and Creativity activities encouraged students to explore colors and emotions using descriptive language, while Science lessons focused on food groups and packaging processes. Reading sessions strengthened pronunciation and comprehension through fables, and Math and Logic activities reinforced numeracy using practical formulas such as Price × Quantity, supporting both literacy and analytical skills.
Beyond classroom instruction, both the Kaohsiung and Taipei Filipino pre-service teachers participated in a two-day cultural immersion program designed to deepen their understanding of Taiwanese history, traditions, and community life. Visits to cultural sites, local communities, and heritage landmarks allowed participants to experience firsthand the richness of Taiwanese culture, fostering mutual respect, global awareness, and cross-cultural appreciation.
Working closely with PNU alumni employed by ALV, the student-teachers engaged in culturally enriching and learner-centered activities that promoted inclusivity, intercultural understanding, and professional collaboration. The program operates under the 2023 Memorandum of Understanding between PNU and ALV and provides full financial support, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and allowances, ensuring a focused and rewarding teaching experience.
Through the ALV Winter Camp 2026, PNU reaffirmed its commitment to producing globally competitive educators and strengthening international partnerships. By empowering Filipino pre-service teachers in both Kaohsiung and Taipei to thrive in diverse educational environments, the University continues to nurture future leaders who inspire learning, bridge cultures, and champion excellence beyond borders.
