DepEd statement addressing the accusation of misinforming the President about the K to 12 Program

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The Department of Education (DepEd) strongly objects to the accusation that DepEd officials and other agencies are feeding President Benigno S. Aquino III with wrong information on the readiness of the government to implement the K to 12 Program. The Department maintains fidelity to the Filipino people and assures them that we continue to be transparent and accountable 

We reiterate that the government is on track in the implementation of the K to 12 Program. In fact, DepEd has built 86,478 classrooms and hired 128,105 teachers from 2010 to 2014. DepEd has already requested funds for the construction of 27,499 classrooms, and will be hiring 37,000 teachers in 2016 for Senior High School alone.

As part of our rigorous preparations for the nationwide implementation of Senior High School, DepEd has identified and mapped over 5,800 public schools set to offer Senior High School (SHS) in 2016. There are also 2,199 non-DepEd schools cleared to offer Senior High School and over 200 more applications being processed. DepEd also released the partial list of schools that will offer Senior High School in 2016. It may be viewed through www.deped.gov.ph/datasets. 

We urge those who have concerns to provide specific details so we may address the issues at hand and provide immediate actions, as effective governance requires. We continue to work together with our education partners from different sectors to ensure the successful implementation of this program for the benefit of the Filipino learners.

*www.deped.gov.ph

Palarong Pambansa 2015 opens with Parade of Friendship and Camaraderie

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The 58th Palarong Pambansa opens this Monday, May 4 held at Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex, Tagum City, Davao del Norte with over 12,000 student athletes participants from the 17 regions in the Philippines.

More than 12,000 athletes from both public and private elementary and secondary schools are to compete in various sporting events.

(https://instagram.com/p/2Qn4srMJdM/?taken-by=msmyrnz)

The inauguration of this year’s Palarong Pambansa had opening ceremonies with the Parade of Friendship and camarederie.

With the theme “Breaking Borders, Building Peace,” this year’s Palarong Pambansa graced by Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas, DepEd​ Secretary Br. Armin Luistro and Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario.

Playing fields, billeting, hygiene facilities and provision for nourishment are already in place for the athletes, coaches and trainers participating in the week-long sports development program.

Join the fun and enjoy the games of Palarong Pambansa 2015, starts now and ends on May 9.

Photos: Arts Travel Magazine

DepEd: All systems go for Palaro 2015

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The Department of Education (DepEd) has completed the preparations for the 58th Palarong Pambansa in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. The national sporting event’s original kick off date was moved to May 4, to support our boxing champion Manny Pacquiao in his fight against Floyd Mayweather Junior this coming Sunday.

DepEd Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC said that all necessary arrangements have been secured. “Every year, we aim to make the Palarong Pambansa a special event highlighting what the Filipino youth can showcase to the world in the field of sports,” Luistro said. 

Luistro also added that this year’s Palarong Pambansa will continue to be clean, green and high-tech. “More than the equipment we set up to showcase a high-tech Palaro, the sporting event will display Filipino core values such as honesty and fair play and will put equal emphasis on environmental concern.”

Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario assured DepEd that the province is ready to host the 2015 Palarong Pambansa, and implemented a gun ban in the province for the duration of the games. “We were able to secure the PNP’s order for a gun ban in the province from April 20 to May 10, 2015.”

All delegations from 17 regions have arrived and are now settled in their respective billeting quarters.

The Palarong Pambansa is DepEd’s way of promoting physical education and sports as an integral part of the Basic Education Curriculum and as an affirmation to its commitment to develop the potentials of the youth to become responsible and globally competitive citizens.

Assistant Secretary for Legal and Legislative Affairs Tonisito Umali, assisted by the Task Force on School Sports (TFSS), shall spearhead the event. The TFSS shall provide technical management, secretariat/staff and operational services.

The following activities are lined up for the 2015 Palarong Pambansa: 

May 3 –Governor’s Night at DavNor Sports & Tourism Complex (DNSTC); 

May 4 – Thanksgiving Mass with Gov. Del Rosario and Sec. Luistro at the RDR Gym & Cultural Center and the Opening Ceremonies to start in Government Center, Capitol Grounds to DNSTC; 

May 5 – Media Night at DNSTC Clubhouse; 

May 3-8 – Sports competition; 

May 6 – DepEd Night at DNSTC Clubhouse; and 

May 9 will be the closing ceremonies

PNoy inspects newly built DepEd PSIP classrooms for Region III

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 In the constant effort to build more learning spaces for our learners, the Department of Education (DepEd), in cooperation with Citicorp-Megawide Foundation, continues the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for School Infrastructure Project (PSIP). The first phase of the project covers Region I, III, and IV-A. A ceremonial turnover of the accomplished classrooms for Region III was held at the City of Malolos Integrated School (IS).

The ceremonial turnover was graced with the presence of his Excellency President Benigno S. Aguino III along with Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC, local government officials and officials from Megawide all of whom inspected the newly built 2 storey 6-classroom building and another 2 storey 12-classroom building in Malolos Integrated School.

Luistro reiterated the importance of the classroom construction projects as part of the government's extensive investment in education. "Ang gobyerno natin ay naginvest ng malaki para sa edukasyon, at isa ito sa mga bunga noon," he said.

This first phase of the PSIP project sees the completion of 2,867 classrooms for Region III alongside 2,156 classrooms in Region I and 3,853 classrooms for Region IV-A.

Currently, there are on-going constructions for the second phase of PSIP, which list Regions I, II, III, X, and CAR as the beneficiaries. These classroom constructions are part of DepEd’s efforts to improve school buildings and facilities.

Luistro added that the effort to improve the education system does not only revolve around the construction of classrooms. 

Luistro said, "Beyond classroom construction projects, we have to make sure that the things we teach inside the classrooms are in line with 21st century competencies. And this is the purpose for launching the K to 12 program."

“Determination and hard work, keys to success” – Luistro to Pantawid Pamilya graduates

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“Kapag tinitignan nila sa pag-aaral kung sino ang talagang nagiging tunay na successful sa buhay, sabi nila iyong mga nagpupursigi, iyong may pangmatagalan na lakas at patuloy na nangangarap at hindi sumusuko,” Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said to more than 4,000 Pantawid Pamilya high school graduates who attended the post-graduation celebration at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on April 9, 2015.

The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), a human development program of the national government that invests in the health and education of poor households, primarily of children aged 0-18, has produced its first batch of high school graduates this year.

The education chief told the graduates that their lives do not stop at graduation saying, “Pwede pa kayong matulungan na mabigyan ng scholarship ng TESDA para may choice kayo. 

Pwede pa kayong mangarap at pumasok sa pamantasan. Merong mga scholarships, kung kayo'y magpupursigi at magpapatupad ng inyong mga pangarap.”

“Sa ating pagtatapos, mahaba pa ang ating lakbayin sa buhay, marami pa tayong mga paghamon, at maraming mga pagkakamali, marami tayong makalilimutan. Kung ang kasama natin ay tatawanan tayo, baka mahirapan tayong tumawid; pero kung sama-sama tayo at sabihin sa ating sarili, “Kaya natin yan, hindi tayo susuko!” At kung may mga panahon na binabatikos tayo, makipagtulungan tayo sa isa't-isa. Kayang-kaya iyan ng Pilipino,” he added.

Luistro said that 4Ps has helped DepEd to reach out to more Filipino children and deliver to them quality basic education.

“Ang enrollment sa high school sa buong Pilipinas sa public schools ngayon ay 5.9 million. Malapit na tayo sa six million. Pero noong nakalipas na panahon, ang enrollment lang natin sa high school ay 5.4 million. Dumami ang ating enrollment sa high school ng half a million. At dahil dyan, kailangan natin mag-hire ng mga panibagong teachers, magtayo ng mga panibagong classroom, at siguraduhing ang programa ay makausad,” said Luistro.

This year, DepEd will build more than 40,000 classrooms and create over 39,000 teacher items as it continues to gear up for the K to 12 full implementation in 2016.

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Sports. Education. Opportunities.

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These are some of the best words that describe Palarong Pambansa. One of Palaro’s highlights over the past years is the Special Games category where children with special needs (CSNs) are able to showcase their sporting talents to the community.

The Special Games are composed of Athletics (100M, 200M, 400M, 4X100M, Shot put, Running & Standing long jump), Swimming (50M Backstroke, Breastroke, Freestyle), Goal ball and Bocce – a ball sport closely related to bowling.

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC presents Palaro as a means to support the Department’s commitment to provide equal educational opportunities for all learners. “Ang Palarong Pambansa, kagaya ng edukasyon, ay inclusive o bukas sa lahat. Wala itong pinipili, wala itong itinatangi. Ito ay para sa lahat na may pusong handang magpunyagi upang sa dulo ay magwagi” he said.

Athletes with intellectual disability, visual impairment and those who are orthopedically handicapped will have a chance to be scouted to compete in international events. Among the notable Palaro Special Games athletes are Merill Jean Derama, John Brian Menosa and Lizamel Dayon - all of whom competed in the 2011 Special Olympics held in Athens, and swimmers Jonalyn Hernando and Marco Tinamisan – both with no limbs.

Amidst the sea of 10,000 Palaro participants are the 850 Special Games athletes, set to be welcomed by the province of Davao del Norte. 

Palarong Pambansa has also been a gateway for CSN’s to prove that they can exceed expectations with their athletic capabilities. Their perseverance and dedication to their trainings serve as an eye-opener that breaks down barriers of marginalization.

DepEd releases SHS permits to over 1,100 private schools

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In gearing up for the full implementation of the K to 12 program, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued provisional permits to 1,122 private schools that will offer Senior High School (SHS) last Tuesday, March 31. 

In an interview, Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said, “DepEd is doing everything it can to make sure that all the anxieties and fears will be addressed in the next 11 or 12 months.” 

After years of planning and engaging with education stakeholders, DepEd, through its field offices, has identified and mapped more than 5,800 public schools set to offer SHS along with these private schools and other institutions in 2016. DepEd estimates that 1.2M to 1.6M public school students will enroll in SHS in 2016. Of this range, approximately 0.8M to 1.1M will proceed to DepEd SHS and the remaining 0.4M to 0.5M will enroll in non-DepEd SHS. Public school students and Education Service Contracting (ESC) grantees who will enroll in a non-DepEd SHS of their choice shall receive a subsidy from the government covering school fees through the proposed SHS Voucher Program of DepEd. 

In an interview, Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) national chairperson, Benjo Basas recognized the need for the educational reform, saying, “We are not against K to 12. Alam naman natin lahat na sa kasalukuyan, tayo na lang yata ang bansa na hindi nag-e-employ ng ganitong sistema, and of course in the preparation for lifelong learning ay ibibigay ito sa K to 12.” Basas, however, expressed concerns over government’s preparedness to implement the said program. 

Luistro emphasized that DepEd has been preparing for this reform since 2010. On the fifth year of the K to 12 roll-out, DepEd continues to gear up for full implementation. He said, “We are building close to 30,000 classrooms at the second quarter. We will be hiring around 30,000 teachers by 2016. For all of our textbooks, as early as now, we have done a call for 2016, para wala na kaming issue.”

He added, “On this last leg, what we need is a little encouragement, support and for them to say, “Kakayanin iyan!” DepEd plants seeds and the harvest will happen in the next generation. I can only show where it’s leading.”

DepEd reminds schools to keep grad rites simple

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The Department of Education (DepEd) reiterated that graduation ceremonies in schools should be simple but meaningful and should promote civil rights, foster a sense of community, and encourage personal responsibilities. 

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said, “While graduation rites mark a milestone in the life of the graduates, these should be conducted without excessive spending, extravagant attires, or extravagant venues.”

Luistro directed the public school heads to charge any expenses related to the graduation rites to the school Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) under the 2015 budget.

“Contribution for the annual yearbook, if any, should be on a voluntary basis,” he added. Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) may donate funds as long as these are from voluntary contributions. 

Luistro added that non-academic projects such as but not limited to attendance to field trips, film showing, Junior/Senior (JS) Promenade and other school events should not be imposed as requirements for graduation.

The graduation ceremonies should be scheduled either on March 26 or 27, 2015.

This year’s graduation theme is “Saktong Buhay: Sa De-kalidad na Edukasyon Pinanday”. 

This year’s commencement exercises shall highlight the importance of quality education in forging a decent future for the Filipino youth.

“Through this theme, we hope to emphasize the Department’s commitment in honing the 21st century skills among Filipino graduates in order for them to actualize their life goals and dreams not only for themselves but also for the less fortunate,” Luistro said. 

DepEd, USAID to expand educ access for OSYs, students in conflict-affected areas

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The Department of Education (DepEd) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) signed the bilateral agreement for Basic Education Programs aiming to increase access to quality education for vulnerable populations such as out-of-school youth (OSY) and students in conflict-affected areas.

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said that through this partnership, the Department will be able to open opportunities not only for students with special needs and pre-primary students but also to OSYs and students who reside in conflict-affected areas. 

He added, “Our mandate is to provide every Filipino child with access to quality education.”

DepEd Undersecretary for Legal and Legislative Affairs Alberto Muyot said, “Education is the primary driver of development.” He added that education should be inclusive and should serve everyone, “especially the least, the lost, and the last.”

US Embassy deputy chief of mission Brian Goldbeck said, “This bilateral education agreement will sustain and reinvigorate our combined efforts to ensure that the Philippines continues its rise as regional and global leader in this new century.”

“Education is a shared responsibility,” Muyot said. He urged the public to take a stand in education and take an active part in shaping the future that every Filipino learner deserves.

Under the agreement, DepEd and USAID will provide life skills training to youth, promote community engagement and peace education, increase capacity of teachers and youth leaders to meet the education needs of youth and vulnerable population through alternative learning areas affected by crisis and conflict.

The partnership intends to strengthen education governance at both national and local levels. It also aims to empower the local government units, communities, and stakeholders to deliver education and training service for OSYs and to increase OSY employability by providing equitable access to relevant education and skills training.

The program also aims to improve learning outcomes in reading, science and mathematics instruction, diagnostics, and teaching and learning materials.

Kariton Klasrum Program goes nationwide

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Developed by CNN 2009 Hero of the Year Efren Peñaflorida, the Kariton Klasrum is a program where volunteers filled wheel wooden pushcarts with learning materials and sanitation supplies to teach basic education and hygiene practices to out-of-school children.

As part of the effort in promoting inclusive education nationwide, the Department of Education (DepEd) is replicating the Dynamic Teen Company's (DTC) Kariton Klasrum made popular by CNN Hero awardee Efren Penaflorida, Jr. By expanding the project nationwide, DepEd and its partners intend to address the needs of hard-to-reach learners and out-of-school children and youth (OSCYs).

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said the DepEd aims to reach out to out-of-school youth and street children through the project. 

“Children should not be required to adjust to our system of education,  it is the system of education that should address their needs,”  he said.

The program provides greater mobility for children-at-risk, OSCYs, and school drop-outs in accessing basic education through the Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM) program of DepEd. 

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said, “This project aims to have a 100% reintegration rate of the beneficiaries into mainstream or regular schools. Just as we accommodate the unique needs of indigenous peoples and special learners, we also try to fit our modes of delivery to the unique conditions of children at-risk, especially those in the streets."

According to Peñaflorida, there are already a total of 84 ongoing Kariton Klasrum sites. He explains that the goal of the program is to get the children back to school. “Hindi ito replacement sa regular classroom. Ang gusto namin ay ma-entice silang mag-aral ulit.” After three months under the Kariton Klasrum Program, the students will be evaluated for school-readiness. “We are never too strong to do things on our own. Your presence now secures our future. It is very important,” he added.

DepEd Undersecretary for Partnerships and External Linkages Mario A. Deriquito said that a total number of 106 Kariton Klasrum sites is the target for NCR. He then posed the challenge of reaching out to the farthest areas and “to look for those who have been overlooked.”

Deriquito also invited partners to help in the program and said, “We encourage companies, organizations, and individuals to support the Kariton Klasrum Program. We need help in providing students’ school supplies, storybooks, and daily feeding programs as well as teacher's kits, slippers, hygiene kits and vitamins. Volunteers for the projects activities are likewise invited to join.”

Prior to the implementation of the program, a full assessment of project sites, a mapping and validation of children at risk on the streets will be done by DepEd in coordination with DSWD and barangay LGUs, who will also provide "tanods" (watchmen) in the project sites to ensure security. To date, there have already been 27 initial areas which were identified as new Kariton Klasrum sites. DTC is tasked with training volunteers and monitoring the program implementation, while DepEd takes care of the curriculum and the program implementation per se.

Luistro added that it should not be the children who will adjust to the education system but the other way around. He also invited everyone to “learn from the children at-risk in streets” and said, “Sana matuto tayo sa mga batang nasa lansangan at makita nating marami pa tayong dapat matutuhan, kasama nila.”

DepEd to hold month-long early registration in public schools nationwide

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The Department of Education (DepEd) has set January 24 to February 27, 2015 as the period for early registration in all public elementary and secondary schools nationwide for SY 2015-2016.

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said that the month-long early registration period will give the Department a clear picture of the total number of expected enrollees and will help in addressing challenges that may arise during the regular enrolment. He added, “Our collective aim is a smooth school opening come June, that is why we are preparing as early as January.”

The early registration aims to ensure that all five-year old children are enrolled in kinder while all six-year olds are enrolled in Grade 1 by June.

Other targets of the early registration are out-of-school children (OSC) and out-of-school youth (OSY) from marginalized sectors, including street children ages 5 to 18. These targeted learners will be provided with their preferred education delivery system which could either be formal through the alternative delivery mode (ADM) or through the alternative learning system (ALS).

To ensure universal participation, DepEd has enlisted the assistance of local and barangay officials for the early registration of OSC, the OSY, those with difficulty in learning and the indigenous peoples (IPs).

The early registration will see DepEd working closely with the LGUs, the Parent-Teachers Associations, barangay officials, civil society groups, civic organizations and the business sector to ensure wide sectoral participation in the exercise of granting all learners access to education.

Documentary requirements DepEd emphasized that there are no fees required for the registration. The birth certificate of the child shall be the documentary basis for early registration. If this is not available during the early registration, the document can be submitted within the school year.

Tagum City is Palarong Pambansa 2015 venue

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After careful deliberation, officials of the Department of Education (DepEd) have selected Tagum City, Davao del Norte to host the 2015 Palarong Pambansa. 

The city beat out five other bidders – Dipolog City, Pagadian City, Koronadal City, Lanao del Norte province, and CARAGA region.

Before announcing the results of the vote, Education Secretary Br Armin Luistro FSC asked for the support of the cities that were not selected. 

“This is a vote for Mindanao. This year we were surprised at the number of bidders. We hope that we still have your support.”

When asked what he expected from the host Luistro replied, “The only thing we need to expect is for Tagum to deliver.” He added, “Ang maganda sa Tagum ay mukhang handa na ang lahat. Hindi na kailangan pa ng dagdag na buwang preparasyon.”

The Palarong Pambansa is held in May with hosting duties rotating yearly among the island groups.

Competitive bidding

Months before the official presentation, DepEd and Philippine Sports Commission officials inspected each venue to see if the facilities and billeting areas are adequate. PSC Commissioner Jose Luis Gomez reported to the body the rating system that they used, which included international standards, distance from the main complex, power supply, and security, among others. DepEd’s Schools Sports Events and Activities Unit Head Cesar Abalon reported on the status of the billeting areas, which are evaluated based on the adequacy of rooms, bathrooms, kitchen areas and medical provisions.

Based on the criteria, Tagum City garnered the highest points. According to Gomez, the local government had already upgraded its facilities, which were used to host PSC’s Batang Pinoy competitions in 2013.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chair Ricardo Garcia congratulated all the bidders. “I am impressed with the way everyone conducted themselves. The PSC will definitely consider one of you to host Batang Pinoy and our other events in 2015.”

Palarong Pambansa Law

Palarong Pambansa 2015 will be the first national games to be held under the Palarong Pambansa Law (RA 10588) signed May 27, 2014, which mandates the creation of a Palarong Pambansa Board as the lead policy-making and coordinating body for the preparation and conduct of the games. The Board shall be composed of the DepEd Secretary as Chairperson, a DepEd Undersecretary, two (2) DepEd Assistant Secretaries, the Chairman of the PSC, the President of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)

2014 Christmas Message of Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC

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"This season, as we celebrate community and oneness in the pursuit of being good, may we all find joy in each other’s company and encourage each other to do good, no matter the cost." - - Br. Armin A. Luistro

The Department of Education acknowledged the continuous and effective assistance of its media partners in communicating the Department’s programs and projects. 

The DepEd Media Partners Christmas party with fun and enjoyable activities held at the TGIF (Fridays) in Glorieta 3, Makati City last December 18, 2014.

Thanks to all organizer of a great Christmas Party with DepEd. May you all have a Christmas filled with hope, peace, joy and love. Happy Holidays and looking ahead for more blessed Philippines 2015.

Here's DepEd Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro's Christmas message to everyone.

A Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones!

This year has not been without its challenges and as I address you this season, I call to mind the many sacrifices we have all had to make to keep our children learning. Whether we are teachers, administrators, school staff, or parents, we have all contributed much by way of our time, dedication, and hard work.

These times have seen direct threats aimed at our students. Violence in schools and the constant possibility of disasters keep us on our toes, firm in our commitment to ensure everyone’s safety within the school community.

This season, rather than recalling what we fear most, I choose to honor the good in all of us.

Christmas is a reminder of the goodness that comes into the world even as it is challenged by the darkness of uncertainty. We have seen examples of this throughout the year in the persons of those within the Department who have given much of themselves so that our work may continue. Our teachers have gone beyond their call to do remarkable things like deflect gunmen and protect their students. Administrators and officials from local offices have been outstanding in shepherding their people, in always being quick to offer a word of care and thanks. Our donors too have been on call, ready to engage us, for what little or big needs we might have. Even our students have been good citizens.

It is very difficult to lose hope in the company of great people.

This Christmas, I wish for all of you to rekindle that goodness inside and magnify it. Remind others, by way of gratefulness, that they too have been beacons of good in your lives. Find peace knowing that in your own little way, you have contributed a great deal of good in a world bereft of it.

This season, as we celebrate community and oneness in the pursuit of being good, may we all find joy in each other’s company and encourage each other to do good, no matter the cost.

Again, may you all have a Christmas filled with goodness, joy, and love. God bless us all!

PH kicks off first ASEAN schools games in the country

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The Philippines, through the Department of Education (DepEd) and the local government of Marikina City, officially opened the 6th ASEAN Schools Games (ASG) at the Marikina Sports Complex, November 30.

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said that ASG plays an important role in solidifying ASEAN ties. He said, “This display of solidarity among nations proves that neither borders nor cultural barriers are hindrances to the development and further camaraderie among ASEAN countries.”

“This ASG is not a mere sporting event but a parade of culture among participating countries. We dare learn from each other. We learn that differences allow us to enjoy and appreciate the various treasures in each of our cultures,” he adds.

Luistro also said that ASG seeks to promote ASEAN solidarity among the youth through school sports and provide opportunities for school athletes to engage in cultural exchange.

Marikina City Mayor Del De Guzman said, “The ASG promises an opportunity among ASEAN youth through sports, and for school athletes to interact and engage in cultural exchange within ASEAN. Hosting this particular sporting event is a first for Marikina City and the Philippines.”

The education chief lauded all the student athletes present at the opening ceremonies, saying, “We continue to applaud all of our athletes. We ask you to compete in the spirit of sportsmanship.”

“The future of ASEAN is all gathered here in Marikina City. I have no doubt that the best student athletes from the ASEAN countries are here tonight,” Luistro added.

Some 1,500 student athletes from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines will compete with each other in the 11 sports included in the ASG. The sporting event is until December 7.

The venues for each sporting event are Marikina Sports Center for Athletics, Volleyball, Tennis, and Swimming; Trevvi Subdivision for Badminton; Our Lady of Perpetual Succor College for Sepak Takraw; St. Scholastica’s Academy for Wushu; Marikina Convention Center for Table Tennis; Marist School for Basketball; Rizal Stadium for Gymnastics; and Valley Golf and Country Club for Golf.

Turkish gov't amps up DepEd computerization program donates computer packages school

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Computer packages donated to Justo Lukban Elementary School

The Turkish International Cooperation and Development (TIKA) donated computer packages to the Department of Education to boost the computerization program in schools nationwide. An initial donation of 36 computer packages, seven (7) printers, and five (5) laptops were given to Justo Lukban Elementary School.

Turkey Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu hands over the laptop to Diomedes Rosete, principal of Justo Lukban Elementary School

DepEd Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC extended his gratitude to TIKA for their continuous support in providing technical assistance to our schools.

Turkey Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu and Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan led the ceremonial turnover at the said school.

Turkey Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu in a candid moment with students of Justo Lukban Elementary School in Paco, Manila.

Prior to this donation, TIKA had also turned-over tablets last year to assist in recovering school records and DepEd office documents ravaged by Super Typhoon Yolanda. The 40 tablets were intended to speed up the process of salvaging soaked, soiled, and destroyed documents.

 

DepEd, Marikina City finalize plans for 6th ASEAN Schools Games

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The ASEAN School Games (ASG) is an annual sports competition among students of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). 

Apart from providing the youth with opportunities to showcase their sporting talents, the ASG promotes solidarity and fosters cultural exchange among the youth of participating countries. In November 2013, the Philippines hosted a Golf Tournament of the 5th ASEAN Schools Games hosted by Vietnam.

“This is a big challenge for our country and we thank the Department of Education (DepEd) for giving us this task,” said Marikina City Mayor Del R. De Guzman at the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with DepEd on the hosting of the 6th ASEAN Schools Games (ASG). 

MOU signing between Deped and Marikina City for the Asean School Games

Education Secretary and honorary chairman of the 6th ASG Governing Board Br. Armin Luistro FSC explained, “This (ASG) is very important, not only for Marikina but most especially for the Philippines, because here we can showcase the country’s talents in the area of sports and show that we are ready for the world.”

Undersecretary for Regional Operations Rizalino Rivera said, “This is historic, because this is the first time the Philippines will be hosting the ASEAN Schools Games.” 

Rivera said that the country is privileged to accommodate all the ASG delegates. “The ASG is like the ASEAN Games but for younger people so you could just imagine the scale of participants in this sporting event,” he added. 

Participating countries are Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the Philippines, as this year’s host.

Luistro shared his hopes for the event, “My prayer is that the experiences of the athletes and their delegations will be a lasting memory for them -- part of the legacy which we hope to impart to our youth during this administration.”

The ASG will be held in the City of Marikina from November 29 to December 7, 2014.

DepEd hands over new classroom buildings to schools in Negros Oriental

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In its unceasing drive to universalize kindergarten education, the Department of Education (DepEd) has built seven (7) new kindergarten classroom buildings in Negros Oriental through the help of Aklat, Gabay, Aruga tungo sa Pag-angat at Pag-asa (AGAPP) Foundation, and Asian Development Bank-Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction (ADB-JFPR).

“One of the first programs of the Aquino administration was universalizing kindergarten to which the AGAPP foundation urgently volunteered to help,” Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said.

He added that the AGAPP Foundation has continued to aid the Department in addressing classroom needs for the past four years and that they “do not only build classrooms but also foster hope among the learners.”

AGAPP Foundation chairperson Pinky Aquino-Abellada said, “These efforts by the AGAPP Foundation are all for the benefit of our Negrense learners. We thank all our donors for their endless support to education.” She underscored the continuous effort of the AGAPP foundation in building more classrooms in the province. 

Furthermore, she urged the parents and teachers to continue working together, saying "Tulung-tulong po tayo para makamit ng mga bata ang kanilang mga pangarap."

ADB-JFPR Senior Advisor Tatsuya Kanai emphasized that the erected classroom buildings are a result of the efforts of many – the government, the private partners and the residents of the beneficiary provinces.

Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo expressed his gratitude to DepEd, the AGAPP foundation, & ADB-JFPR in building classrooms in the province. 

Seven (7) schools benefitted from the newly built Silid Pangarap buildings-- Okiot Elementary School, Bais Science ES, Sto. Tomas ES, San Miguel ES, Sta. Catalina ES, Candugay ES, and Maloh ES.

“Sana po patuloy na magbigay ng pag-asa at kulay ang lahat ng mga proyektong ito sa ating mga estudyante, pati na rin sa mga magulang na nagpapadala ng kanilang mga anak sa paaralan,” Luistro said.

The education chief further mentioned that aside from the colorful Silid Pangarap buildings, the AGAPP foundation likewise provides feeding programs for learners and trainings for teachers.

"Sa mga classrooms na ito, makikita na natin ang katuparan ng ating mga pangarap," he added

(Photos: Adolf Aguilar)

Statement of Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC on PNoy’s SONA 2014

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The Department of Education is one with President Benigno S. Aquino III in fulfilling his promises to the Filipino people. We remain committed to the Filipino learner. After addressing the inherited backlog of basic inputs, we continue to address the incremental requirements of enrollment growth and additional requirements with the introduction of Senior High School.

In fact, it is only now in the history of the agency that we are going to build classrooms in preparation for FUTURE requirements. We are also hiring teachers at unprecedented levels that position our schools to provide quality education. The continued roll-out of the K to 12 curriculum sets the foundation for lasting reform of the Philippine educational system.

President Aquino recognizes the gains of DepEd and the hard work of our teachers by showing the real fruits of our labors – students who graduate with a better future and an increased hope in our country.

The stories of Mark Escora (TESDA graduate), Jonnalyn Navarossa (TESDA graduate), and Maria Cecilia Fruelda (DepED ALS graduate) are the result of an education system and a reforming bureaucracy that refuse to give up on the Filipino learner. These graduates represent the perseverance and commitment of our teachers and administrators who lead the fight against ignorance and despair in the most difficult circumstances. We will leave no Filipino child behind.

The President continues to be bound by his social contract to the Filipino people. We will persevere to restore people’s faith in government by pursuing much-needed reforms. We call on everyone to rally together and to move forward collectively in building our nation. Indeed, the Filipino is worth fighting for.

---Pnoy's 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA)

DepEd remains committed to deliver quality basic educ

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The Department of Education (DepEd) continues to make substantial investments in basic education through various programs for all Filipino learners. 

DepEd Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC underscored the department’s commitment to ensure that no learner shall be left behind. 

“Our mandate is to provide every Filipino child with access to quality education,” Luistro said. He added that DepEd’s programs have always been directed to promoting inclusive and learner-centered education for Filipinos.

In its mission to expand access to quality education, the Philippine government has enacted the Kinder Basic Education Act and the Enhanced Basic Education Act in February 2012 and May 2013, respectively. Since the institutionalization of the K to 12 program, DepEd has made stride in its implementation. 

The introduction of Universal Kindergarten in 2011 led to the increase of Kindergarten enrollees—from 1.64M in Sy 2010-2011 to 2.29M in SY 2013-2014. 

Following the implementation of Kindergarten was the roll-out of enhanced curriculum for Grades 1 & 7 in SY 2012-2013, Grades 2 & 8 in SY 2013-2014, and Grades 3 & 9 in SY 2014-2015. The entire K to 12 curriculum has been completed in February 2014. 

In 2012, DepEd rolled out the SHS modeling program in 54 schools in different parts of the country to prepare for its full implementation in 2016. The selected schools offer four main tracks—Academic, Technical-Vocational, Sports, and Arts and Design. The pioneer batch of the SHS modeling program has graduated in May 2014. At present, over 10,000 students are enrolled in DepEd’s SHS modeling program for SY 2013-2014.

In SY 2013-2014, DepEd also assisted more than 809,000 students in private schools under the Government Assistance for Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE), a program wherein the government enables eligible students to pursue secondary schooling in private schools through the provision of a fixed annual subsidy to cover tuition and other school fees. The Department increased the subsidy for students in private schools outside Metro Manila—from P6,500 to P7,500. DepEd is targeting to increase its coverage this year with a total projected grantees of 995,000 representing 50% of students enrolled in private high schools. 

DepEd also gives prime importance to Indigenous Peoples (IP) and Muslim learners. Through the Philippines’ Response to Indigenous Peoples and Muslim Education (PRIME) program, DepEd expanded access to education to more than 100,000 IP and Muslim learners in the last three years. 

To further advance services for all Filipino learners, DepEd boosted its Information and Communications Technology (ICT) initiatives which include mapping of schools and library hubs nationwide. Of the 46,603 public schools nationwide, 84% have already been mapped. Integrated in this ongoing geolocation project is the mapping of libraries and library hubs. Of the 9,855 registered public schools with libraries, around 9,000 have already been mapped while 153 of the 188 library hubs in the country have also been geolocated.

Together with local and international education partners and public school teachers, DepEd developed the Learning Resources Management and Development System (LRMDS), an online library containing downloadable and free teaching and learning materials. These learning materials are tied in to the curriculum to ensure relevance and appropriateness. 

Luistro stressed that these ICT initiatives will help the Filipino learners have more access to relevant, up-to-date and quality education materials. “It also provides a database to our educators where they can derive their lesson from. These materials will assist them in their lesson plans, and may also give an array of contextualized classroom discussion,” he said.

To ensure that learner needs are met, DepEd has completely addressed the 2010 backlogs in textbooks and seats, attaining a 1:1 students to textbook, and student to school seat ratio in 2012. Moreover, DepEd has constructed 66,813 classrooms from 2010-2013, closing the 66,800 classroom backlog. 

The Department has also created over 102,600 teacher items from fiscal year (FY) 2010-2013, which translated to around 25,000 new positions created every year. With this, DepEd has doubled the average number of teaching positions created in previous budget years. 

Furthermore, DepEd targets to complete the ongoing construction and procurement of water and sanitation facilities by the end of the year. 

Luistro said that DepEd remains steadfast in its commitment to enhance and transform basic education for all Filipinos.

deped.gov.ph

DepEd: “No collection policy” in public schools still in effect

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The Department of Education (DepEd) reminded all school authorities that collection of any fees during enrolment and the first days of class is strictly prohibited. 

“We call on all teachers and school officials to see to it that we do not refuse a single student who wants to enrol. We strongly remind them that we do not collect any fees as a requirement for enrolment,” Education Secretary Br.Armin A. Luistro said. 

The education chief added that certain contributions in public schools, while authorized by DepEd, do not mean that they are compulsory. “These contributions remain voluntary,” Luistro stressed.

DepEd re-issued this call to teachers, school officials and parents to encourage the community to bring all school-aged children to school.

“Let me be clear on this: in no case shall non-payment of voluntary school contributions or membership fees be made a basis for non-admission, non-promotion or non-issuance of clearance to a student. And that includes withholding of school cards,“ Luistro emphasized.

The fees which are authorized but not compulsory include Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts membership fees, Philippine National Red Cross, Anti-TB fund, school publication fee, and Parents Teachers Association fee.

Based on DepEd Order 41 series of 2012, which remains in effect, Luistro has directed all school officals that no fees shall be collected from school children in kindergarten up to Grade 4 anytime during school year. For Grade 5 pupils up to fourth year high school students, there will be no collection from June to July. 

However, starting August this year until the end of school year, the following fees may be collected on a voluntary basis: Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts membership fees of P50 per learner ; Philippine National Red Cross, P35 per learner; Anti-TB fund drive of P5 per learner; school publication fee of P60 for every elementary pupils and P90 for every high school student. The Parents-Teachers Association fee must be reasonable and is to be determined during the PTA general assembly.

The PTA can only collect contributions starting August and only after presenting to the PTA members and to the school head/principal report on the utilization of previous school year’s collections and the school year proposed budget with program of activities.

“School fees should not intimidate parents into bringing their children to school that is why I urge all school officials to strictly observe these guidelines or face administrative sanctions,” Luistro said, adding that PTA fees, even though approved by a majority of PTA members, still remain voluntary. 

DepEd Assistant Secretary Jesus Mateo emphasized that the Philippine Government provides basic education free of charge to all citizens. He said, “Schools are not allowed to turn away students. Only in extreme cases of overpopulation can they do it. In such cases, some schools will opt for Alternative Delivery Modes (ADMs).”

“Our public assistance station has received as total of 63 queries since Monday, some of them regarding compulsory contributions. In these cases, our team calls the schools and finds out the details. If the schools violate our strict prohibition on collection of fees, our legal department will send them a warning,” Mateo said. 

Mateo encouraged the parents to contact the DepEd public assistance station for any complaints, concerns, and questions at 636-1669, 633-1942, 0919-456-0027, and through action@deped.gov.ph.