Rex Education Commemorates 75 Years of Educational Impact at AECON 2025

Rex Education, a key player in shaping the future of Filipino education, marked a significant milestone—its 75th anniversary—at AECON 2025, held on January 16-17 at the Gallio Events Hall in Parañaque.

This two-day educational congress brought together nearly 1,000 educators, school leaders, and education stakeholders to reflect on the company's longstanding dedication to quality education. With the theme “Celebrating 75 Years of Commitment to Quality Education: Seamless and Meaningful Learning Experiences Through Assessment, Intervention, and Enrichment,” the event emphasized the importance of fostering holistic learning journeys for both educators and learners.

Gathering of Change Makers in Education

For years, AECON has served as a platform for addressing the most pressing issues in the education sector. This year, the spotlight was on creating seamless and meaningful learning experiences—a priority that resonates with Rex Education’s mission to empower both learners and educators. As part of their 75th-anniversary celebration, Rex brought together thought leaders, educators, and stakeholders to engage in discussions that would inspire innovation and practical solutions to improve the Philippine educational landscape.

In his opening remarks, REX COO Roger John Y. Fontelera underscored the importance of individualized approaches to education. "This year’s AECON isn’t about giving ready-made solutions. Instead, it’s about creating a space for reflection, learning, and collaboration. We want to provide you with stepping stones—resources, strategies, and ideas—that you can adapt to meet the specific needs of your schools, communities, and learners," said Fontelera, inviting educators to embrace continuous learning and collaboration.

A Vision for the Future: Preparing Filipino Learners for the Digital Age

Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera delivered a powerful keynote address that focused on preparing Filipino learners for the digital future. Corvera stressed the urgency of equipping students with digital literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, which are crucial in a world that is becoming increasingly digital. His remarks reaffirmed the DepEd’s commitment to developing future-ready learners through technology integration, public-private partnerships, and enhancing the overall quality of education.

Panel Discussion: Improving Learning Outcomes in the Philippines

A key session during AECON 2025 featured a panel discussion with some of the most respected names in education. Dr. Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), Dr. Dina Joana Ocampo, Professor at the University of the Philippines, Ms. Rhodora Ferrer, Executive Director of the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC), and Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada, Legal Counsel of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA), joined forces to share their insights on improving learning outcomes in the country.

Moderated by Dr. Edizon Fermin, Vice President for Academic Affairs at National Teachers College, the panel discussion delved into the need for evidence-based policy decisions, stronger accountability, and the importance of authentic assessments in improving student performance.

Student Engagement and Innovative Learning Approaches

The afternoon session featured Dr. Amy Berry, Director of EngagED Consulting, who introduced innovative strategies for fostering student engagement. Dr. Berry challenged the traditional teaching models, encouraging educators to embrace new methods that empower both teachers and students to co-create meaningful learning experiences. Her insights resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing that engagement is key to ensuring student success in a rapidly evolving world.

A Thanksgiving Mass and the Symphony of Learning Solutions

The second day of AECON began with a heartfelt Thanksgiving Mass, celebrated by Most Reverend Jesse Mercado, Bishop of Parañaque. The mass reflected on the 75-year journey of Rex Education and its unwavering commitment to supporting Filipino education.

Following the mass, REX CEO Don Timothy Buhain introduced the “Symphony of Learning Solutions,” an initiative designed to support lifelong learning, from early childhood education to professional development. Drawing parallels between a symphony and the educational process, Buhain likened each learning effort, resource, and voice to an essential element in creating something truly impactful. He assured the attendees, "The symphony will improve—with practice, continuous learning, change, and execution. In the future, there will be additions when necessary. We will listen and count on our Edukampyon community, including the voice of our learners."

The Symphony of Learning Solutions includes lesson exemplars, digital platforms like Schoology, and targeted assessments, all designed to provide comprehensive support for educators and learners at every stage of the learning process.

Unity in Purpose: The Edukampyon Pledge

As AECON 2025 came to a close, a spirit of unity filled the hall as educators, stakeholders, and attendees stood for the Edukampyon Pledge. Led by Jeanne Marie Tordesillas, Chief Marketing Officer of REX, the pledge was a solemn commitment to advancing quality education, advocating for policies that support meaningful learning, and prioritizing the best interests of Filipino learners. The pledge symbolizes Rex Education's mission to continue being a trusted partner in shaping the future of education in the Philippines.

75 Years and Beyond: The Edukampyon Commitment

Rex Education’s 75th anniversary is more than just a celebration of the past; it’s a commitment to the future. Atty. Dominador Buhain, REX Chairman and President, expressed his gratitude to the Edukampyon community and reiterated the company’s promise to remain at the forefront of education innovation. "Seventy-five years, and our work is not yet done. The future demands more from us, and we accept that challenge with open hearts and minds... We vow to continue listening, learning, and innovating to provide high-quality learning solutions for every Filipino learner."

As Rex Education looks forward to the next 75 years, its commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences for Filipino learners and educators remains steadfast. For Rex, the journey of providing accessible, innovative, and impactful education is far from over—para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan, for life.