Educators Stand for Christ-Centered Teaching at the 5th CEdNet NatCon

“How can today’s youth stay Christ-centered while society’s values continue to shift?”

This was the pressing question that over 400 Christian educators nationwide aimed to answer last September 6 at the Christian Educators Network International’s (CEdNet) 5th National Convention (NatCon) held at MGC New Life Christian Academy (MGCNLCA). Guided by the theme “Championing Godliness,” this year’s NatCon aimed to empower educators by encouraging them to teach with faith-driven values.

As MGCNLCA School Director Helen Villanueva asserted in her opening remarks, “in a world where truth is often challenged, values are often blurred, and the next generation is at risk of losing its moral compass, we are here to declare: Godly education is not optional, it is essential.”

According to CEdNet National Director Dr. Samuel Sumaoang, the global vision of the NatCon is to equip Christian educators to integrate godly practices in their respective schools by standing firm in God’s Word amid modern societal beliefs.

This was echoed by Bishop Noel Pantoja, National Director of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC), as he reminded educators that teaching is not merely an occupation but a calling to lead future generations according to God’s Word. Meanwhile, DMI Medical Supply Co., Inc. General Manager Gina Espejo discussed how honoring God’s Word outside of one’s personal life can be done by practicing faith and integrity in business leadership.

During the plenary sessions, Maloi Malibiran-Salumbides, National Head of the PCEC Family Commission, emphasized cultivating Christian principles in one’s culture and family life. Likewise, National Coalition for the Family and the Constitution Director Atty. Jeremiah Belgica reminded the educators to uphold Scripture through the use of biblical truths.

Following the plenaries, each breakout group explored living by godly righteousness in specific fields of education, including science education, preschool education, homeschooling, disability-inclusive homes and schools, language education, and social studies.

This year’s breakout sessions allowed attendees to choose two out of nine available workshops, with some workshops conducted by MGCNLCA’s Upper Primary Years Teacher Sheryl Mabini and International Baccalaureate-Primary Years Program Coordinator Emie Joane Guintu.

As the event came to a close, Dr. Emelbon Mayrina and Dr. Rodrigo Lamamigo from the Department of Education in Malabon City were given the Godly Education Championship Award 2025 for embodying Christ-like servant-leadership in the field of education.

Guintu shared her hopes for the future of MGCNLCA teachers. “My prayer is that they return with fresh insights they can apply in the classroom, but also with a deeper sense of God’s calling in their lives as educators. May their learnings from CEdNet inspire them to continue integrating biblical truth more meaningfully into their practice, encourage one another in faith, and continue shaping students not just for academic success but for a life that honors and glorifies Christ,” remarked Guintu.

“Christian education is not just about teaching knowledge, but about transforming lives through godliness… Teaching is truly a sacred calling that shapes character, influences culture, and impacts the nation,” reflected School Principal Evangeline Co.