MMSU leads Ilocos Norte TEIs and DepEd SDOs in new consortium
By Jareason Fabre
Mariano Marcos State University–College of Teacher Education (MMSU-CTE) is leading a new consortium of Ilocos Norte Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) and DepEd Schools Division Offices (SDOs), the Unified Network of Institutions and Teachers for Quality Education (UNITEd). Launched today, November 17, at the Center for Teaching Excellence, the consortium aims to strengthen support for pre-service and in-service teachers, as well as students in basic education.
MMSU-CTE, recognized as a Center of Excellence in Teacher Education since 1996, leads this new collaboration. Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., MMSU President, expressed full confidence in the consortium’s vision, saying, “This partnership moves us forward in improving teacher education in the province. I offer my wholehearted support and look forward to seeing every initiative come to life.”
The partnership was sealed through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by the heads of the participating TEIs. Signatories included Dr. Manzano; Atty. Ferdinand Nicolas of Northwestern University (NU); Mr. Joseph Sicco of Data Center College of the Philippines–Laoag (DCCPL), represented by Department Chair Ms. Elaine Riotoc; Fr. Edsel Demilio of Divine Word College of Laoag (DWCL), represented by VPAA Gladys Jean Basilio; and Dr. Lucris Agnir-Paraan of Northern Christian College (NCC), represented by VPAA Jane Gumiran.
The three SDO Superintendents also joined the signing: Mr. Anselmo Aludino of Batac City, Atty. Donato Balderas, Jr. of Ilocos Norte, and Dr. Joann A. Corpuz of Laoag City.
Dean Ronald Candy Lasaten detailed how the consortium will open new programs and opportunities for both TEIs and DepEd SDOs. For TEIs, the partnership covers structured onboarding for new teachers, expanded capability training and mentorship programs, an annual teacher conference, collaborative research groups, and the C-Talks Masterclass series offering CPD-accredited sessions on emerging education topics.
Meanwhile, DepEd SDOs will benefit from coordinated teacher training programs, joint action research initiatives, shared instructional materials development, strengthened extension and community engagement activities, organized visits to MMSU learning facilities, and access to specialists for mentoring and coaching. Together, these programs aim to improve teacher preparation, professional growth, and educational innovation across Ilocos Norte.
Representatives from the partner institutions expressed strong support and enthusiasm for the consortium. Ms. Riotoc of DCCPL called on everyone to move forward “with unity, purpose, and a renewed drive to uplift our teacher preparation programs.” Dr. Basilio of DWCL highlighted the value of collaboration, saying, “This partnership strengthens our dedication to excellence, and we will actively contribute to the team.” NCC’s Dr. Gumiran added, “Through this consortium, we envision continued growth and the consistent production of graduates who embody quality and competence.”
Atty. Ferdinand Nicolas of NU appreciated MMSU’s role as a leader, noting, “As a Center of Excellence, MMSU is rightly positioned to guide this consortium. Together, we can address the needs of pre-service teachers and elevate the future of basic education.” Superintendent Aludino pledged full commitment, stating, “We wholeheartedly commit to our responsibilities under this MOU. After all, it truly takes a village to educate the villagers.” Superintendent Balderas stressed that collaboration is essential in today’s educational landscape, adding, “With students as the ultimate beneficiaries, our support is unconditional.” Superintendent Corpuz echoed the sentiment, sharing, “I give my 100% support as we work together to fulfill the consortium’s goals.”
Center for Teacher Excellence Chief Romelyn Lagura concluded the remarks by underscoring the power of partnership: “We move forward as one community with a shared purpose. Education thrives through collaboration, and today signals the start of more vibrant training and initiatives.” She also invited all consortium members to participate in the Research Capability Training this December and in the future programs and projects of the consortium.
College of Teacher Education
Nov, 18, 2025 08:49:am
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STRATCOM
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