In the same assembly, the members of the ������Ƶ-National elected a new set of Board members for the 2026–2029 term during its business meeting. The organization also formally welcomes the Board members elected at the November 22, 2025, General Assembly, whose leadership and continued service will help advance ������Ƶ’s mission and programs in the coming years of the 2025-2028 term.

The ������Ƶ-National extends its warmest appreciation to our coffee sponsor, Gourmet Farms, through the generosity of Dr. Mel Garcia of De La Salle University.

Following the General Assembly, a seminar entitled “From Classroom Electrolysis to Rockets and Forensics: Connecting Electrochemistry to Real-World Applications” will be delivered by Dr. Ganga Fernando, Professor of Chemistry at Cottey College. The seminar will explore how electrochemistry extends beyond the classroom and into real-world applications such as rocketry, forensic science, and modern technologies.

Register here:

Registration Fees:

We look forward to seeing you there!

At ������Ƶ’s seventh im������Ƶ webinar, two educators made the case that chemistry classrooms need not choose between rigor and joy — and showed exactly how to have both.

The seventh edition of ������Ƶ’s im������Ƶ webinar series opened not with a formula or a textbook definition, but with a question: What if the problem came first? On that premise, the Philippine Association of Chemistry Teachers gathered 158 educators from across the archipelago for a Chemistry Week session themed “From Problems to Play: Transforming Chemistry Classrooms Through PBL and GBL” — a title that doubled as a manifesto.

Two speakers took the virtual stage, each representing a distinct but complementary philosophy. Together, they outlined a vision of chemistry education that begins in the messy reality of the world and ends — if all goes well — in the pleasure of
play.

The Problem Is the Lesson

Dr. Paderna opened her session by inviting participants to do something counterintuitive: set aside the syllabus, at least for a moment, and start with a community problem instead. She presented an example rooted in the MATATAG curriculum — a water quality issue affecting a local community — and walked educators through how such a scenario could anchor an entire unit of chemistry instruction.

Her argument for Problem-Based Learning rested on four pillars: authentic problems, student ownership, inquiry, and collaboration. An effective PBL scenario, she explained, must be ill-structured enough to invite genuine investigation — not a textbook exercise with a predetermined answer — while still being carefully aligned with learning competencies. Students are not handed solutions; they are handed situations.

“Start with a real-world problem rather than definitions and formulas — let the problem pull the chemistry out of students, not push it in.”

– DR. EDWEHNA ELINORE S. PADERNA

For teachers concerned about curriculum coverage, Dr. Paderna offered a practical reassurance: begin small. A single, well-designed PBL unit — one that assesses reasoning and communication rather than rote recall — is enough to shift a classroom’s culture. She encouraged participants to design their first scenario, share it with colleagues for feedback, and iterate. The emphasis on productive struggle was consistent throughout: students who wrestle with genuine problems, she argued, learn not just chemistry but how to learn.

The session also ventured into territory that rarely appears in pedagogy workshops: artificial intelligence. Dr. Paderna urged educators to confront the reality of AI tools in students’ lives head-on, calling for explicit AI-use policies and integrity statements embedded in every assignment. Transparency, she suggested, is itself a lesson — one that models the kind of honest, evidence-driven thinking that PBL is designed to cultivate.

When the Game Is the Curriculum

Where Dr. Paderna built her session around problems, Dr. Walag built his around play — and he was careful to distinguish the two concepts he placed at the center of his talk. Gamification, he explained, is the application of game elements (points, badges, leaderboards) to existing content. Game-Based Learning is more fundamental: it means designing games that teach entire learning outcomes, in which the mechanics of play and the demands of the curriculum are inseparable. To structure that design process, Dr. Walag introduced the PLAY model — Purpose, Learning Mechanics, Agency, and Yield. Each element, he argued, must be present for a game to function as genuine pedagogy rather than a novelty activity. A bingo game for naming organic compounds, which he demonstrated live, illustrated the model in action: students weren’t memorizing by rote but connecting structural formulas to compound names through repeated, low-stakes play.

“Purposeful play is not the opposite of seriousness. It is a way to make learning both joyful and deep.”

– DR. ANGELO MARK P. WALAG

The session included a breakout activity in which groups of participants designed their own chemistry games on topics they found difficult to teach. The resulting ideas — a card game on chemical equilibrium requiring group strategy, a challenge to identify ionic and covalent bonds, and a game targeting significant figures in mathematical operations — demonstrated both the versatility of the approach and the ingenuity of the educators present. Dr. Walag offered feedback to each group, gently pushing them toward designs in which strategy, not just chance, drove learning.

A Classroom Reimagined

Taken together, the two sessions amounted to a coherent argument about what chemistry classrooms could become. Both speakers resisted the idea that engagement and rigour are in tension — that making learning more relevant, more playful, or more student-directed must come at the cost of depth. Instead, they presented PBL and GBL as mechanisms for achieving exactly the kind of thinking that chemistry education has always aspired to produce: analytical, creative, persistent, and collaborative.

For the 158 educators who attended — representing schools and universities from across the Philippines — the session closed not with a summary but with a series of invitations: to design one PBL activity before the next term, to try one game in class, to share drafts with colleagues, and to register for the events ahead.

/vgo

In celebration of CHEMISTRY WEEK 2026, the Philippine Association of Chemistry Teachers, Inc. invites you to a FREE webinar with the theme:

: From Problems to Play: Transforming Chemistry Classrooms through PBL and GBL

28 February 2026 (Saturday)

8:00 AM

Get ready to explore innovative, engaging, and student-centered strategies in teaching chemistry!

Registration link coming soon. Stay tuned!

The 39th Philippine Chemistry Congress (39PCC) united hundreds of chemists, educators, researchers, students, and industry leaders in a vibrant convergence of ideas and innovations in Iloilo City. Hosted by the Philippine Association of Chemistry Teachers – National Chapter (������Ƶ-National) and co-organized by the Philippine Federation of Chemistry Societies (PFCS) and ������Ƶ-Region VI, the 39PCC celebrated chemistry’s evolving role in solving global challenges through the lens of quantum science, sustainability, and digital transformation.

July 1, 2025: Knowledge Building Begins

The event opened on July 1 with a highly specialized Pre-Conference Workshop at the University of San Agustin. Participants explored mass spectrometry and data analytics as indispensable tools in functional food research—an emerging interdisciplinary field blending chemistry, nutrition, and data science.

July 2, 2025: A Grand Kickoff and Scientific Exchange

On July 2, delegates officially launched the congress with a vibrant Opening Program, led by PFCS President Dr. Glenn V. Alea and ������Ƶ President Dr. Voltaire G. Organo. The parade of colors and ribbon-cutting ceremony energized the start of the main event.

Dr. Cristine Villagonzalo of the UP National Institute of Physics delivered a powerful Keynote Address on “Unworldly quantum ideas and the technologies that arise from them,” setting the tone for thought-provoking plenary sessions. Notable lectures followed, including:

• Dr. Michelle D. Regulacio on plasmonic metal nanomaterials
• Dr. Joey D. Ocon on chemistry’s role in energy transition

The day ended on a cultural high with “Orbitals Unleashed”, featuring awards, raffles, an art contest, and a spectacular fellowship and cultural show that showcased Filipino talent and camaraderie among scientists.

July 3, 2025: The Heart of the Congress

July 3 was abuzz with parallel oral presentations, poster sessions, and product showcases. Topics spanned:

• Nanotechnology, analytical chemistry, and environmental science
• Food and pharmaceutical chemistry
• Chemical education and computational chemistry
• Sustainability, green chemistry, and synthetic chemistry

Six parallel sessions ran simultaneously, moderated by leaders in their respective fields. Attendees engaged with innovations such as bioplastics from agricultural waste, AI and game-based learning in chemistry, and groundbreaking work in medicinal plant research.

The day also featured 13 product presentations, from cutting-edge instruments to novel teaching and research technologies, thanks to the support of leading companies and sponsors.

July 4, 2025: Looking Forward

The final day, July 4, featured government and international perspectives:

• Mr. Jeffrey A. Aborot of DOST-ASTI discussed computing for R&D in chemistry
• Dr. Reinabelle Reyes of PhilSA explored the Philippine space ecosystem
• Dr. Seamus Delaney from Deakin University, Australia, presented on system thinking in chemistry education

The congress culminated in the recognition of exhibitors, awarding of top posters, and the official announcement of the 40PCC.

In Retrospect

The 39th PCC wasn’t just a conference—it was a celebration of Filipino ingenuity, a showcase of collaborative science, and a bridge to future possibilities in chemistry. As we go beyond the orbitals, the PCC reminds us: the real power of chemistry lies in connection—across disciplines, sectors, and borders.

Stay tuned for the 40th Philippine Chemistry Congress!

Visit us at .

REGISTER NOW! Use the qr code below.

February 22, 2025 – As part of the 2025 Chemistry Week Celebration, the Philippine Association for Chemistry Teachers – National Chapter (������Ƶ-National) successfully hosted its sixth installment of the im������Ƶ webinar series, focusing on “Teaching Green Chemistry and Sustainable Practices.” The virtual event, conducted via Zoom, drew participants from various regions across the Philippines and was accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) with two Continuing Professional Development (CPD) units for Professional Teachers.

The event commenced with opening remarks from Dr. Voltaire G. Organo, President of ������Ƶ-National, setting the tone for an insightful discussion on integrating Green Chemistry and Sustainable Development into the chemistry curriculum.

Green Chemistry Integration and Sustainable Education

The first speaker, Mr. Jerald T. Villarmino, R.Ch., Founder of Green Chemistry Philippines, introduced strategies to incorporate Green Chemistry principles into Philippine Chemistry Education. He emphasized the importance of contextualizing lessons around Green Chemistry practices, fostering environmental awareness and sustainability values among learners.  Mr. Villarmino also encouraged participants to join the Green Chemistry Teaching and Learning Community (GCTLC) (), an international network for educators and advocates of sustainable chemistry.

Following this, Assistant Professor Hazel Joyce M. Ramirez, LPT, MAEd., from the College of Education, University of the Philippines Diliman, discussed the role of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) pedagogy in Chemistry education. She highlighted its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and provided actionable methods to integrate Green Chemistry principles such as Atom Economy, Waste Prevention, and Energy Efficiency into high school curricula. Additionally, she introduced Systems Thinking as a framework for teaching sustainability and familiarized participants with the Green and Sustainable Chemistry projects by UN and International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC).

A Step Forward for Philippine Chemistry Education

The webinar successfully reinforced the importance of environmentally responsible chemistry education, equipping teachers with innovative tools and strategies to promote sustainability in their classrooms.  The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Edwehna Elinore S. Paderna, Executive Vice President of ������Ƶ-National, who reiterated the organization’s commitment to advancing Green Chemistry education in the Philippines.

Edited by Ralph Lauren M. Alomia

The ������Ƶ-National held its General Assembly on May 11, 2024 in Sheraton Manila Bay Hotel, Malate, Manila. The program began with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and an Opening Prayer, followed by a Welcome Message from Dr. Voltaire G. Organo, ������Ƶ President.

Dr. Edwehna Elinore S. Paderna, ������Ƶ Executive Vice President, introduced the guest speaker for the event, Mr. Resty C. Collado. Mr. Collado is a science faculty and Innovation and Technology Officer of Miriam College High School.  Mr. Collado’s talk “When Teachers Design: A Confluence of Pedagogical and Content Knowledge” centered on the importance of design thinking in education, and how teachers themselves can also be considered as designers.  He emphasized that in order to foster good learning environments, teachers must refrain from rushing into making a solution when designing. Instead, they should follow steps including explaining the problem, considering various solutions, and evaluating the requirements for each solution.  This follows a problem-solving paradigm.  Mr. Collado also highlighted the difference between designing for students versus designing with them. Considering the students’ strengths and weaknesses is essential for being a good teacher-designer.  This can be applied in writing a lesson plan or in developing a learning material.  Overall, Mr. Collado’s talk provided a unique viewpoint for teachers that aim to continuously improve their students’ learning environment. 

After the talk, the Business Meeting started with the presentation of the official nominees for the elections for the 3 seats for the ������Ƶ Board of Trustees. There were 7 nominees, namely, Ralph Lauren M. Alomia (UP Los Banos), Vic Marie I. Camacho (Philippine Normal University), Ruel Valerio de Grano (UST College of Pharmacy), Voltaire G. Organo (UP Manila), Edwehna Elinore S. Paderna (UP Diliman College of Education), Ma. Cristina Salazar-Pascua (Centro Escolar University), and Cynthia Talens (Manila Tytana Colleges). The members of the Electoral Council were given the time to vote.

������Ƶ’s Business Meeting highlighted on the following, the President’s Report by Dr. Voltaire G. Organo, the Treasurer’s Report by Dr. Fedeliz S. Tuy, and the Membership Committee Report by Ms. Maria Theresa T. Bonus.

During the business meeting, the ������Ƶ’s apprentices, Ashley Yu, Clarence Cabrido, and Jaime Layug of Reedley International School were awarded with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition for their invaluable services to ������Ƶ, which includes graphic designing and research.  These apprentices provided their time and effort to help ������Ƶ with some of their tasks.  

Ms. Maria Florencia Male,  Chair of the Election Committee, presented the three newly elected members of the board: Dr. Voltaire G. Organo, from UP Manila, Dr. Edwehna Paderna from UP Diliman, and Asst. Prof. Ralph Lauren M. Alomia from UP Los Baños.  After which, all members of ������Ƶ’s Board of Trustees took their oath officiated by Dr. Glenn V. Alea, PFCS President.

The program was then formally concluded by Dr. Edwehna Elinore S. Paderna, followed by the announcement of the 39th Philippine Chemistry Congress (PCC) on July 2-4, 2025 at Iloilo Convention Center, with the theme: “Beyond the Orbitals: Exploring Multi-Realms in Chemistry.” The theme is in connection with the celebration of the International Year of Quantum Science in 2025.  A video which promotes the Iloilo tourism was then presented on-screen to entice the viewers to attend the 39th PCC.

Finally, a same-day edit was played to the participants to recapture the highlights of the event.

to the video.

The Philippine Association of Chemistry Teachers (������Ƶ)-National Chapter held its
2023 National Convention at Century Park Hotel, Malate, Manila, on August 17-19,
2023, with the theme, “Interdisciplinary Approaches to Chemistry Education and
�����𲹰�����.” ������Ƶ members from different parts of the country participated in the event.

The program started with a welcoming message from the ������Ƶ-National President, Dr.
Voltaire G. Organo, followed by a Keynote Address from Dr. Carlo A. Arcilla, Director of
the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI). Dr. Arcilla highlighted the role of
Chemistry Education in Nuclear Research. He also introduced existing research
programs in PNRI.

The first day also includes Plenary Talks on the importance of
“Systems Thinking in Interdisciplinarity” by Asst. Prof. Tristan C. Orbeta from the
College of Education, UP Diliman. Dean Charisse T. Reyes, Faculty of Education from
UP Open University, discussed “The Role of Research in Advancing Chemistry
Education in the Philippines.” Finally, Mr. Joseph V. Gutierrez from the Bureau of
Curriculum Development of the Department of Education described the ��ٰշ���
Integration in the Revised Science Curriculum.”

The second day features the parallel sessions, which include Oral Paper presentations
that highlight the results of various Chemistry Education research, Show-and-Tell
sessions in pedagogy, and product presentations from sponsors, namely the C& E
adaptive learning solutions, Metrobank, Rex Education, Sigmatech, and Science Star
Corporation.

On the last day, participatory Plenary Talks that highlight the Interdisciplinary
approaches in teaching Chemistry in the context of Coffee Chemistry and Cosmetic
Chemistry were given by Dr. Emmanuel V. Garcia of the Chemistry Department, DLSU-
Manila and Djanne Marie T. Garcia of DJM Gradeur Corporation. Dr. Edwehna Elinore
S. Paderna, Executive Vice President of the ������Ƶ-National Chapter, concluded the event.