English language experts hold workshop in Batanes

THE United States Embassy in the Philippines, through its Regional English Language Office, recently provided 50 high school teachers from across Batanes with innovative American teaching approaches in a workshop that integrated artificial intelligence, critical thinking and communication skills.

Led by two English Language Fellows who are American experts from the US State Department’s English Language Fellows program, the workshop, “Engaging Learners: Communication, Criticality, and the Future of Instruction,” reflected the strong academic partnership between the US and the Philippines as the two nations celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.

Batanes teachers present their classroom strategies to a US English Language Fellow at a workshop organized by the US Embassy’s Regional English Language Office. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

“The US Embassy is proud to invest in the educators of Batanes by sharing American excellence in education through expert facilitators and world-class resources,” said US Embassy Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna. “By expanding their teaching methods, Batanes educators are ensuring that the next generation of Ivatans are well-prepared to enter the workforce — positioning the province for greater international collaboration and as strong future partners of American companies.”

In response, Department of Education Senior Program Supervisor Kym Clyde Moro said: “We are grateful to the US Embassy for this multidisciplinary approach. The program provided our teachers with practical tools that will greatly improve how our students learn and communicate. This is a meaningful investment in our teachers and the future of education in Batanes.”

A US English Language Fellow discusses key teaching strategies with Batanes teachers.

Participants also developed “action projects” that integrate real-world data and hands-on learning, including lessons on Ivatan stone houses to promote community resilience, debates on future investment in Batanes using economic data, and cultural exchange activities comparing US and Philippine traditions using American AI tools. These projects ensure classroom learning is directly connected to local community challenges.

The Regional English Language Office team likewise shared information on additional Embassy programming resources, which empower participants through firsthand exposure to American best practices.