𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐡𝐃 𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐰𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

The proposed Doctor of Philosophy in English Language Teaching (PhD-ELT) program generated strong interest among students of the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) during a presentation and stakeholders’ consultation held on July 5, 2026, at Chandler Suites, Pagadian City. The initiative was presented by Dr. Sarah Jean B. Bayocot, BSEd and MAEd English Program Chair of the School of Teacher Education (STE) and one of the program’s proponents. The proposal seeks to address the growing demand for advanced graduate education among English-language educators, researchers, curriculum specialists, and educational leaders in Region IX and neighboring areas by offering a specialized, accessible doctoral program.

The presentation also served as a stakeholders’ consultation attended by graduate students and Dr. Leonardo O. Munalim of the University of San Jose–Recoletos, Cebu City. During the open forum, participants shared their insights on the proposed PhD-ELT program, with many MAED students expressing interest in pursuing the degree once it becomes available. Among them was Mr. Ivy Jay Duran, an MAED-English student, who described the initiative as timely and beneficial, noting that the availability of a doctoral program within the region would provide educators with greater opportunities for academic advancement without the need to relocate or study far from home. He likewise expressed his support for the proposal, citing its potential to strengthen English language education and expand professional development opportunities for educators in the region.

The proposal forms part of J.H. Cerilles State College’s continuing efforts to broaden its graduate education offerings and reinforce its role as a center for advanced learning and research in the region. It likewise supports the institution’s pursuit of universityhood by expanding doctoral-level academic programs and enhancing opportunities for professional and scholarly growth.

Once established, the PhD-ELT program is expected to provide English language educators and related professionals with a pathway to pursue advanced specialization and research within the region. The program also seeks to address the growing demand for doctoral education in English language teaching while preparing future experts who can help shape language education and policy in Region IX and beyond.