Fil-Am Teachers Expand Support for Learners in Philippines and Abroad

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) and the Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America–Philippines Chapter, Inc. (AFTA-PCI) are looking to expand their partnership to support literacy, teacher development, and educational opportunities for Filipino learners in the Philippines and abroad.

During a courtesy visit to the CFO, AFTA-PCI officials shared plans to broaden their teacher-training and student-support programs following the successful 2026 Balik-Turo Caravan held in Palawan, Camarines Sur, and Misamis Oriental. The group is now exploring opportunities to bring similar initiatives to communities in Mindanao.

The AFTA-PCI delegation was led by President Marissa Maningat, Chairperson and former Department of Education Undersecretary Lorna Dig-Dino, and Vice President for Teaching and Research Rizalinda Labanda.

CFO Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II welcomed the organization’s education initiatives and expressed the Commission’s willingness to help connect AFTA-PCI with potential institutional partners, including the National Book Development Board, the Second Congressional Commission on Education, and the Philippine Board on Books for Young People.

The possible partnerships could help expand access to books and other reading materials, particularly in underserved communities.

The two organizations also discussed possible cooperation under the Paaralan sa Konsulado Program, which provides educational support for Filipino children living overseas.

The initiative was discussed in connection with plans for a Philippine diplomatic post in Miami.

Through its Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino or LINKAPIL Program, the CFO also invited AFTA-PCI to participate in a book-reading activity during an upcoming book donation drive at Cavite Science Integrated School in Maragondon, Cavite.

The meeting highlighted the growing cooperation between government institutions and Filipino-American educators in promoting literacy and strengthening educational opportunities for Filipino children.

AFTA-PCI also presented a recognition award intended for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., citing education and reading initiatives undertaken by the administration.

The expanded collaboration is expected to open more opportunities for educators, students, and Filipino communities both in the Philippines and overseas.