Early Childhood and Special Needs Education

The list of qualified applicants for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Bachelor of Special Needs Education programs for the academic year 2026-2027 will be posted soon.

Stay tuned for further updates.

🤟

The ECSNEd Department continues to take pride in the notable accomplishments of its faculty members, whose recent achievements reflect a strong commitment to professional development, inclusive education, research productivity, and academic excellence. These milestones not only recognize individual dedication but also underscore the department’s collective effort to strengthen teaching, scholarship, and service.

Mr. Vernon Jeffery S. Ponce successfully completed the Advance Level 2 of Filipino Sign Language Training under the Philippine Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. This achievement is a significant step in strengthening his capacity to support inclusive communication and to contribute to a more accessible learning environment for learners with hearing disabilities. As a sign language trainer, Mr. Ponce also plays an important role in sharing his expertise and helping expand awareness and competence in Filipino Sign Language within the academic community.

Miss Crystal V. Limos likewise marked a meaningful professional milestone after successfully completing Level 1 of the Sign Language Interpretation Program of New Era University. Her training enhances her ability to engage in inclusive communication and adds value to the department’s efforts in promoting accessibility, empathy, and meaningful participation in educational settings. Such an achievement demonstrates the importance of continuous learning among faculty members who serve diverse learners.

Prof. Leonardo D. Tejano, faculty member of ECSNEd and College Research Coordinator, has further brought distinction to the department through a series of research publications. First publication is his discussion paper, “Do Philippine Higher Education Institutions Speak Multilingual Realities?”, which forms part of his work as a fellow of the University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies, Program on Higher Education Research and Policy Reform. The paper contributes to important conversations on language use, diversity, and policy in Philippine higher education.

In addition, Prof. Tejano published the article “Rethinking Mother Tongue Instruction After RA 12027: An Ilokano-Based Translanguaging Approach for Multilingual K–3 Learners” in the Educalingua Journal of the Fakultas Pendidikan Bahasa dan Seni, Universitas PGRI Semarang, Indonesia. This publication, funded by Mariano Marcos State University through its General Appropriations Act allocation, highlights his active engagement in research that responds to contemporary issues in multilingual education. His work offers valuable insights for educators and policymakers seeking to better support young multilingual learners.

Prof. Tejano also published another article titled “How to Use ChatGPT to Support Research Writing Among Preservice Teachers” in the Journal of Artificial Intelligence in Education of the Postgraduate University of Mataram, Indonesia. This study is especially timely as educational institutions continue to explore the responsible and effective use of artificial intelligence in teaching and research. Through this publication, he contributes to ongoing discussions on how emerging technologies can be harnessed to strengthen academic writing and research competence among future educators.

Meanwhile, Mr. Jeremy Adrian D. Guiang, Program Coordinator of the BECEd program, received Copyright Registration for the course learning material titled “A Course Learning Material in Foundations of Early Childhood Education,” issued by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. The registration was also transferred to MMSU, affirming the university’s recognition of locally developed instructional materials and its commitment to protecting intellectual property. This achievement is an important contribution to the enhancement of early childhood education instruction, as it supports the use of original, contextually relevant, and academically grounded learning resources.

These accomplishments reflect the dynamic and forward-looking spirit of the ECSNEd Department. They demonstrate how faculty members continue to grow as educators, researchers, and advocates of inclusive and innovative education. Their successes serve as an inspiration to colleagues, students, and the wider academic community, reinforcing the department’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and public service.

Access the following papers through:
https://cids.up.edu.ph/download/do-philippine-higher-education-institutions-speak-multilingual-realities/

https://journal2.upgris.ac.id/index.php/ECL

https://jurnalpasca.unram.ac.id/index.php/jaie/article/view/1575

🤟

Warmest congratulations to our affiliate faculty Ms. Angela V. Malinay for being awarded Best Presenter at the 3rd Global Conference on Teacher Education, Research, and Innovation (April 28–30, 2026, online platform)! 🎉

Your dedication in advancing early childhood education and commitment to research excellence inspire us all. May this honor unlock even more doors for growth, innovation, and impact!
🤟

𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝘀. 𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗹𝗮 𝗩. 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 3𝗿𝗱 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 28–30, 2026 𝘃𝗶𝗮 𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺!

This remarkable recognition highlights the excellence and significance of her research study, “Contextualized Task-Based Exercises for Pre-Kindergarten 2 Learners,”conducted under the guidance of her research adviser and co-author, Dr. May Flor C. Rivera.

Your dedication to advancing early childhood education and your commitment to research excellence truly inspire the academic community. May this achievement open more opportunities for continued growth, innovation, and meaningful contributions to the field.

Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved honor! 🎉

𝐄𝐂𝐒𝐍𝐄𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐮𝐬-𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐱𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐃𝐫. 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟. 𝐓𝐞𝐣𝐚𝐧𝐨

With great pride, the Department announces the recent Scopus-indexed publications by our distinguished faculty from the Early Childhood and Special Needs Education (ECSNEd) Department. These achievements underscore the institution's leadership in evidence-based teacher preparation and values education.

In the first publication, Asst. Prof. Leonardo D. Tejano, ECSNEd Faculty and College Research Coordinator, teamed up with Assoc. Prof. Romelyn T. Lagura, and Asst. Prof. Abril Ryan A. Dacanay, for How Well does Pre-Service Teacher Preparation Align with Classroom Competency Expectations? Evidence from Northern Luzon, Philippines." This work forms part of the broader “Development of a National Teacher Education Research Agenda 2025-2030” project, supported by the Teacher Education Council (TEC) through the Philippine Normal University (PNU).

Access the full article here:
https://www.ijlter.org/index.php/ijlter/article/view/16193

Complementing this milestone, Dr. Vida V. Antonio, Chair of the ECSNEd Department, collaborated with Instr. James Cesar A. Metiam, and Prof. Eva B. Macugay, on the article titled "Investigating values education teachers’ competencies in classroom assessment in Philippine secondary schools." Funded by Mariano Marcos State University’s General Appropriations Act (GAA), the study examines critical competencies in secondary school assessment practices.

The article is available at:
[https://kasetsartjournal.ku.ac.th/abstractShow.aspx...]

We congratulate Dr. Antonio and Prof. Tejano, along with their co-authors, for these prestigious publications. This researches directly informs curriculum development and policy, aligning with national goals for quality teacher education.

For more information, contact the MMSU CTE Research Office.
🤟

𝐄𝐂𝐒𝐍𝐄𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐨 𝐁𝐚𝐠𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐝 𝐒𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦

In a remarkable showcase of innovative early childhood and special needs education, Mr. Jeremy Adrian D. Guiang, Mr. Vernon Jeffery S. Ponce, and Ms. Crystal V. Limos from the ECSNEd Department have been awarded 𝑩𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔 at the recently concluded International Aramid Spring Conference 2026.

Held virtually via Zoom on March 26-27, 2026, the conference drew researchers and educators from across the globe, including the Philippines, Africa (Uganda, Nigeria, Kenya), Europe (Greece), Asia (Indonesia, India), and beyond. The trio's standout presentation highlighted their initiated program, ECSpecial Day: Literacy and Sign Language Celebration, which integrates sign language into reading, storytelling, and numeracy enhancement for Pre-Kindergarten 2 learners. This initiative lays a strong foundation for inclusivity in early education, aligning with global goals for quality and accessible learning.

This award recognizes not just the department's dedication but the transformative power of inclusive practices in early childhood. Their session, delivered during a prime international slot, captivated attendees with practical strategies that bridge communication gaps and foster equity from the earliest years.

The department extends heartfelt gratitude to the conference organizers for providing a vital platform to share the department's activities in advancing quality and inclusive education. This recognition underscores ECSNEd's leadership in culturally relevant, evidence-based programs that empower young learners.

As the Year of Early Formulation for inclusivity gains momentum, ECSNEd Department continues to pioneer programs that prepare children for a more equitable future.
🤟

Happy Birthday, Sir Vernon! 🎉

Working with you is always a breath of fresh air, your jolly spirit and lighthearted personality make even the busiest days feel easy and fun.

May your day be filled with laughter, good vibes, and all the things that make you happiest. You deserve every bit of joy you bring to others! Cheers to more smiles, more laughs, and another fantastic year ahead. 🥳

🤟

Happy Birthday, Prof. Rivera! 🎂🎉

Wishing you a day full of celebration and a year ahead filled with success, good health, and happiness. It is a pleasure working with someone as dedicated and supportive as you. May your special day bring you well-deserved appreciation and plenty of great moments to remember. Enjoy every minute of it! 🎈😊

🤟

𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 | Pre-Enlistment for Center for Inclusive Early Childhood Education (CIECE), Academic Year 2026-2027

The MMSU-CIECE-Center for Inclusive Early Childhood Education is now inviting interested parents to pre-enlist their children for the pre-kindergarten 2 level for the 2026-2027 academic year.

To ensure a smooth and efficient enrollment process, please carefully review the requirements, procedures, and important dates for pre-enlistment outlined below.

You may follow CIECE's official page through this link: fb.com/mmsuciece. For further information or assistance, contact the MMSU-CIECE via email at [email protected] or by phone at 0951-267-4221.

Global Perspectives at Teatro Ilocandia: A Day of AJAC and PJAC

The morning session started with the Academic Journey Across Cultures (AJAC) session, followed by the Professional Journey Across Cultures (PJAC) session in the afternoon, last January 21, 2026, at Teatro Ilocandia.

BECEd and BSNEd pre-service teachers actively participated in AJAC, emphasizing the transformative cross-cultural experiences gained through diverse international studies, engagements, and exchange programs.

Faculty members Mr. Vernon Jeffery S. Ponce, Mr. Jeremy Adrian D. Guiang, and Prof. May Flor C. Rivera participated in PJAC, showcasing the department’s support for the university’s internationalization initiatives and pursuit of global academic standards.

The Early Childhood and Special Needs Education Department proudly recognizes the achievements of its faculty and programs, reflecting the institution’s steadfast commitment to quality and excellence in education. The Bachelor of Special Needs Education and Bachelor of Early Childhood Education programs have been conferred the 2025 Presidential SUCCEED Award for surpassing the 2025 PREXC target in the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT), affirming the department’s dedication to developing competent and compassionate educators for inclusive and equitable learning environments.

The department likewise extends its commendation to Ms. Philistia Mercuria P. Bagayas, recipient of the Loyalty Award for 15 years of dedicated service; Mr. Leonardo D. Tejano, awardee of the 2025 Presidential SUCCEED Award under the Research and Publication Category; and Mr. Vernon Jeffery S. Ponce and Ms. Angela V. Malinay, awardees under the Career and Self-Development Category. Their professional accomplishments and unwavering commitment to excellence serve as a source of pride and inspiration for the department and the entire academic community.

These awards form part of the 2025 MMSU PRAISE Awards, an institutional recognition honoring exemplary performance, innovation, and commitment among faculty and staff who have made significant contributions to the University’s vision and mandate.

𝐂𝐓𝐄'𝐬 𝐁𝐄𝐂𝐄𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐆𝐞𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐲𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠

The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (BECEd) program of Early Childhood and Special Needs Education (ECSNEd) Department of the College of Teacher education (CTE) conducted a pivotal virtual meeting with administrators from George Brown Polytechnic in Canada on January 14, 2025. This engagement underscored a commitment to international partnerships aimed at strengthening the BECEd curriculum through global collaboration.

MMSU representatives included Dr. Candy S. Lasaten, Dean of the College, and Dr. Gerry D. Abad, College Secretary, who delivered comprehensive overviews of the university and college. Dr. Vida V. Antonio, ECSNED Department Chair, alongside Prof. May Flor C. Rivera, Chief of the Center for Inclusive Early Childhood Education, and Mr. Jeremy Adrian Guiang, BECEd Program Coordinator, presented details on program offerings emphasizing its curriculum, performance and impact. Joining them were Dr. Imelda Najorda, Extension Coordinator, Dr. Rosabel L. Acosta the chair of the Secondary Education Department, and Dr. Liezel Concepcion, Program Development Coordinator for the College and Graduate School.

George Brown Polytechnic’s delegation featured Dr. Michael Herrera, Senior Vice-President of Institutional Planning and Chief Financial Officer; Dr. Ryan Guest, Director of Global Strategic Projects; Dr. Nadila Shataer, Business Development Officer for Global Strategic Projects; and Dr. Sheryl Monte an alumna of the CTE and a faculty of George Brown.

During the session, MMSU-CTE highlighted its role as a leading state university in teacher education, research, and community outreach. George Brown Polytechnic, a Toronto-based polytechnic renowned for hands-on programs in early childhood leadership, shared insights into its Honours Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and global initiatives, fostering alignment between the institutions.

The discussions centered on possible establishment of international ties to enhance the BECEd program, including faculty and student exchanges, joint research on inclusive pedagogies, curriculum development, and professional training workshops. These efforts aim to integrate global best practices, elevate teaching standards, and promote innovative early childhood care solutions benefiting both Philippine and Canadian contexts.
🤟🔰