19/12/2025
A New Dawn for Education: DepEd Region 1 and Global Peace Foundation Join Forces at Phase 3 Training of Trainers
The future of education in DepEd Region 1 took a significant leap forward from December 3 to 5, 2025, as education leaders gathered for the Phase 3 Training of Trainers in Creating a Model of Transforming Education with Lifelong Character and Holistic Development. This powerful three-day event, highlighting strong collaboration between the DepEd Regional Office 1 and the Global Peace Foundation Philippines, was held at the Marand Resort in Bauang, La Union.
Bringing together 78 passionate and purpose-driven leaders, the training united Schools Division Superintendents (SDS), Assistant Schools Division Superintendents, division chiefs and supervisors, public school district supervisors, and school heads from all 14 divisions. Supported generously by Bless Microfinance Corporation, these educators shared a common goal: to reimagine and elevate the future of education in Region 1 by emphasizing lifelong character and holistic development.
The training aimed to enhance the abilities of participants to become lead trainers and advocates, empowering them to strategically implement and sustain initiatives within their School Division Offices and across the region. The ultimate aim was to develop trainers who could promote transformative education in DepEd Region I, articulating and advancing the true purpose of education in their divisions, schools, and communities.
Forging the Transformation Blueprint
The program began with an opening message from Human Resource Development Division (HRDD) Chief Education Supervisor, Dr. Dinah C. Bonao, setting an inspiring tone for the transformative learning ahead. An uplifting message from Leonard T. Faustino, Executive Director of GPF Philippines, underscored the importance of their shared mission.
A key moment on Day 1 was the official signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between DepEd Region I and GPF Philippines during the Opening Plenary. This act solidified their partnership and commitment to rolling out the transformation model throughout the region.
Dr. Tony Devine, Vice President of Education at GPF, motivated the audience with passionate insights into the program's core principles during the "Transforming Education Blueprint" session and guided participants in "Visualizing the True Purpose and Future of Education," exploring the history and evolution of education.
Adding depth, Director Margarita Consolacion C. Ballesteros from the Regional Focal Secretariat of DepEd shared important concepts tailored to ready education leaders for implementation. Assistant Regional Director, Dr. Rhoda T. Razon, highlighted the significant journey from Phase 1 to Phase 3.
The afternoon of Day 1 featured a dynamic peer learning activity called the Global Cafe: SDO Implementation Best Practice, where leaders shared successful strategies and innovations from their divisions, gaining valuable peer feedback.
Day 2 focused on foundational concepts:
The Case for and Foundation of Character: Participants examined the scientific and practical aspects of character development, identifying key habits toward character building.
The Holistic Development of Educators and Students: Participants deepened their understanding of the Four Core Human Dimensions for holistic development.
Moral and Innovative Leadership in Education: This session explored how ethical leadership can drive innovation.
Creating a Transformative Culture in Your Region and Schools: Leaders learned strategies to build a values-driven culture at both the regional and school levels.
Days 2 and 3 also included focused sessions on self-leadership and public service:
The Inner World: Leading the Self. Activities centered on self-awareness and practical skills for personal growth.
The Familial World: Leading with and for Relationships. This session emphasized the application of character principles to strengthen family bonds.
The Outer World: Leading for the Public Good. Participants discussed how to implement moral leadership to tackle societal issues and create a positive community impact.
Day 3 concentrated on planning and commitment:
Participants developed an action plan for self-improvement through the 10-Week Personal Transformation Challenge, followed by presentations of their rollout plans and regional action plan to ensure alignment.
The training concluded with a Closing Plenary, during which four participants shared their insights, including Jufeel Pulvosa from the National Educators Academy of the Philippines. Remarks from Ann Marlita M. Arevalo, the Education Director of GPF Philippines, along with Dr. Devine, Dr. Ballesteros, and Dr. Bonao, followed thereafter.
Led by Director Arevalo and Education Program Coordinator Mary Grace Rago, along with the DepEd Region 1 HRDD team, including Dr. Bonao, her team members, and Dr. Ma. Teresa M. Bautista, FTAD Chief, the third phase of this Training of Trainers program successfully championed transforming education through character and holistic growth for regional leaders.
The Phase 3 training was more than just a session; it was a commitment ceremony that officially launched the leaders' roles as trainers and champions of this transformative educational model.