At 38, Rex Wallen Tan has already established himself as a forward-looking leader in the Philippines’ education sector. In his dual role as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Technology Officer at Southville International School and Colleges, his leadership has had a profound impact on his community, organization, and industry. His unique journey is marked by resilience, adaptability, and an earnest commitment to the development of future generations.
Driving Innovation in Online Learning
One of Rex’s most impactful contributions is the development of the Virtual Online Learning & Teaching (VOLT) program for the Southville Global Education Network (SGEN) during the COVID-19 pandemic. By leveraging data-driven analytics, VOLT facilitated the seamless transition of over 5,000 students to online learning, earning the Platinum Award for International Best Practice from the Asia Pacific Quality Organization.
Advancing Educational Reforms and Research
Beyond his leadership in digital education, Rex has played a crucial role in shaping national educational reforms. His research on the English proficiency of Philippine higher education students provided critical data that saved the country millions of dollars. This research laid the groundwork for the National Roadmap for Global Competitiveness in Communication Skills, a key initiative for elevating the country’s educational standards. As a founding member of the CHED Technical Working Group, he has conducted seminars and webinars for over 100 universities, reaching more than a million students.
Commitment to Ethical Leadership and Excellence
Rex’s leadership is characterized by a strong commitment to honesty, integrity, and ethical decision-making. As the Director and Chief Finance Officer of SGEN, he ensures compliance with local and international regulations. Under his guidance, Southville International School and Colleges has received the prestigious Philippine Quality Award and the Investors in People Gold Award, recognizing its exemplary governance and commitment to employee development. During the pandemic, he prioritized employee well-being over short-term financial gains, ensuring that no livelihoods were compromised while keeping the institution financially stable.
Shaping the Future of Education
Rex has been at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge educational tools into SGEN member schools. His initiatives, including the implementation of Khan Academy and IXL Learning, have revolutionized personalized learning experiences. Additionally, he spearheaded the creation of the Duolingo English for Tagalog Speakers app, which has benefited over 500,000 Filipinos by enhancing their English proficiency and global competitiveness.
Looking ahead, Rex is committed to raising educational standards in the Philippines to a globally competitive level. His vision is to provide an internationally recognized education that remains accessible and cost-effective, empowering more Filipinos to succeed in the global economy. His ability to inspire change, foster innovation, and navigate challenges sets him apart as one of Asia’s Most Admirable Young Leaders, ensuring that his influence will continue to shape the educational landscape for years to come.
