The University of Northern Philippines strengthened its growing international presence as College of Teacher Education (CTE) student debaters competed in the prestigious Annual Innovative Learning and Education Competition (AIELC) Debate Championship, which concluded virtually on June 29, 2026.
Merneth Ugas, a fourth-year Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English student, and Jerricho Javier, a second-year BSEd English student, proudly represented the University of Northern Philippines in the British Parliamentary Debate category. Demonstrating composure, critical thinking, and persuasive argumentation, the UNP tandem opened the competition with a fourth-place finish in their room during the first preliminary round on June 28 before mounting an impressive comeback to secure second place in the succeeding round. Their resilient performance showed their ability to adapt, refine their arguments, and compete confidently against teams from various institutions on the international debate stage.
The UNP delegation was mentored by Dr. Jamaica Vizcarra-Garcia of the BSEd English faculty and Dr. Winnie Caliboso, Coordinator for Student and Personnel Mobility of the University’s International Affairs and External Linkages Office (IAELO), whose guidance strengthened the students’ participation in the international competition. Hosted by Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) in Indonesia, the delegation’s participation stemmed from a collaborative initiative between UMS and UNP, coordinated through UMS representative Susiati, IAELO Director Dr. Sally Jarin, and University President Dr. Erwin Cadorna. The partnership reflects the University’s continuing commitment to expand global academic linkages, promote cross-border student mobility, and provide learners with meaningful international learning and competitive experiences.
By placing future language educators on an international platform, the initiative highlights the practical necessity of intercultural competence and rapid analytical thinking in contemporary teacher training.
Article by Jamelle Frances A. Realin
