The US Embassy in the Philippines’ Regional English Language Office (RELO) and the Philippine Department of Education (DepEd) Davao City Division conducted last 4 and 5 June an intensive workshop that trained 40 newly-hired teachers under DepEd’s Alternative Learning System (ALS).

Facilitated by two American trainers from the US Department of State’s English Language Specialist Program, this is the first ALS workshop supported by the United States in Davao City.

The activity entitled “Embracing Student-centered Learning: Art as Expression” provided participants with knowledge and tools to integrate innovative, hands-on teaching in ALS curricula, ensuring that students are active participants in the learning process.

The workshop included teaching demonstrations, an introduction to creating sustainable and engaging teaching projects and peer learning.

The American trainers also introduced free English language teaching resources from the US government that will help enhance curriculum development and facilitate engaging classroom activities.

“The insights and strategies shared by our American teacher trainers are designed to significantly enhance the learning experience for ALS students,” US Embassy Regional English Language officer Jeff McIlvenna said. “This initiative underscores the United States’ direct investment in the professional development of Filipino educators, reinforcing our shared dedication to expanding access to quality education and fostering human potential across the Philippines.”

“DepEd’s ALS champions inclusivity by reaching the lost, the least, and the last,” DepEd Davao City Division superintendent Reynante Solitario said. “Supporting ALS teachers is vital so they can teach better and ensure that every learner, regardless of circumstance, is embraced and given a chance to thrive.”

ALS is a parallel learning system in the Philippines which provides a vital pathway to basic education for out-of-school youth and adults who lack access to formal schooling due to socioeconomic or geographical barriers.

The US Embassy’s RELO is committed to supporting Philippine education through its English Language Specialist Program. Previous initiatives include an early literacy project for K-7 teachers in Negros Occidental, which improved reading scores among students through intensive teacher training and community volunteer support in 2024.

Last year, RELO hosted an English proficiency training for the Philippine Army in Tarlac.

RELO also supports long-term educational partnerships. Three American English Language Fellows are concluding their academic year with three universities in Bohol and Leyte, where they led preservice training for future teachers.