In an ongoing effort to enhance teacher education in Region II, the “Timpuyog ti Amianan: A Program to Strengthen Teacher Education Quality” Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was held on May 8, 2025, at Philippine Normal University North Luzon. The event brought together a representative from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office II and various Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) to collaboratively address the performance of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the Board Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (BLEPT) over the past three terms—March 2023, September 2023, and March 2024.

The FGD focused on the collective goal of improving teacher training to prepare competent and inspired educators. Part of the discussion was centered around the BLEPT performance data, with participants delving into the results from the past three examination periods. The aim was to understand the performance gaps, analyze trends, and propose strategic solutions to address areas for improvement in teacher education programs across Region II. This data-driven approach highlighted the urgent need for innovation and collaboration to elevate licensure outcomes.

A significant moment of the event was the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) of CHED Region 2 between Philippine Normal University North Luzon, symbolizing a unified commitment to strengthen regional partnerships and uphold educational standards. The presence of CHED Region II added weight to the discussion, with Regional Director Dr. Julieta M. Paras, CESO III, delivering an empowering message: “CHED fully supports this collaborative initiative. We must act decisively and work together to ensure that our future educators are not only licensure-ready, but also equipped to teach with excellence and purpose.”

Throughout the discussion, stakeholders shared their insights, explored practical solutions, and identified targeted actions to enhance the quality of teacher education in the region. The Philippine Normal University North Luzon emphasized the importance of such collaborative efforts in driving improvements, ensuring that future educators in Region II are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge for success in the classroom and beyond. This FGD reaffirmed the collective commitment to ensuring that every teacher trained in the region is fully prepared to inspire and lead future generations of learners.

As a result of the FGD, a region-wide program will be implemented to enhance BLEPT performance and improve teacher education quality in Region II. These include curriculum review, faculty training, life-long experiences and research and extension initiatives.