Based at the College of Education of the University of the Philippines-Diliman, PALT primarily devotes itself to the promotion of excellence in language teaching, language education research, and professional development. It concerns itself not only with the teaching of English but also with the teaching of Filipino and other local languages.

The primary venue for sharing the experiences of its members as well as getting updated on language teaching and research trends in other countries is the annual convention of the PALT, with the intervening triennial International Convention as an anticipated event. Today, the Third International Conference on Language Education will be convened by PALT at the historic landmark Manila Hotel with the theme "The Seven Spheres of Language Teaching: From Tradition to Innovation."

The theme is rooted in the recognition that language teaching as a professional discipline continues to evolve and its seven essential elements – matter, methodology, measurement, materials, management, mentors, and mentees – are constantly being shaped and further reshaped by various interacting influences. While these changes offer promising effects, some bring about confusions and conflicts. These transitions and transformations pose challenges to language teachers, teacher educators, students, and other stakeholders.

The plenary and parallel sessions in the conference will focus on these challenges. The conference hopes to address theoretical issues and practical concerns that influence the current state of language teaching in local and global contexts; showcase policies, practices, programs, and partnerships that attempt to meaningfully redefine the nature of language teaching, learning, and research; and provide a venue for professional networking, collaboration, and advocacy among stakeholders of language education.

We congratulate the Philippine Association for Language Teaching, Inc., headed by its President, Dr. Helen C. Parcon, Officers and Members, on the occasion of their Third International Conference on Language Teaching and wish them all the success in their endeavors.