Two Voices from the Philippines

The PedPod season finale brings us home to the Philippines through a two-episode special featuring two educators whose work, values, and lived experiences offer powerful insights into what pedagogical innovation can look like when it is deeply human, relational, and context-rooted.

Finale Part 2: Pedagogical Innovation as Being Human

with Teacher Maricar Gustilo-de Ocampo

In this episode, we are joined by Teacher Maricar Gustilo-de Ocampo—early childhood education specialist, teacher educator, mentor, and lifelong practitioner from the Philippines—whose reflections invite us to slow down and return to the heart of education: being human.

Drawing from decades of experience in classrooms, universities, and communities, Teacher Maricar challenges the idea that pedagogical innovation must be fast, technical, or overwhelming. Instead, she speaks of innovation as something deeply relational—rooted in playful mindsets, everyday encounters, and the long work of nurturing kindness, empathy, and joy. For her, children do not need everything to come easy; they need space to struggle, to try again, and to grow through relationships with others and with themselves.

Grounded in Filipino culture, where family, community, and the barangay play a vital role in children’s lives, this conversation reminds us that innovation often means reclaiming what we already know—but may have forgotten: that education is about connection, care, and allowing children to bloom in their own time.