October 20, 2024

DepEd and Chalkboard Launch the ARAL Program: A New Initiative to Boost Literacy and Numeracy in Public Schools

In a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of education in the country, the Department of Education (DepEd) has entered into a formal partnership with Chalkboard, a leading provider of tutoring services, to launch the Academic Remediation, Acceleration, and Livelihood (ARAL) Program. This program seeks to address the pressing challenges in literacy and numeracy faced by Filipino students, particularly in public schools.


The Department of Education taps Chalkboard’s community-based ARAL Program to help enhance literacy and numeracy skills among public school children. At the MOA signing ceremony were (L-R): Georgina Yang, DepEd Assistant Secretary; Sharon Santiago, Chalkboard Marketing Director; Leandro Añonuevo, Chalkboard Director of Business Development and Partnerships; Sonny Angara, DepEd Secretary; Kristine Brown, Chalkboard Chief Executive Officer; and Albert Tablan, Chalkboard Chief Operating Officer.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed on October 14 at the DepEd Central Office in Pasig City by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and Chalkboard CEO Kristine E. Brown. This partnership brings together the strengths of both the public and private sectors to promote improved educational outcomes for K-10 learners.

A Collaborative Effort for Quality Education

The ARAL Program embodies a synergistic collaboration between DepEd and Chalkboard, leveraging their combined expertise to ensure accessible, high-quality education for all Filipino learners. This partnership aligns with the government’s mandate to provide accessible, quality education as outlined in Republic Act 8525, otherwise known as the “Adopt-A-School Act of 1998,” which encourages private sector involvement in improving public education.

During the signing ceremony, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving the department’s goals. “DepEd is committed to ensuring that quality education is accessible to all Filipino learners, and this partnership with Chalkboard is a significant step toward that goal. By working together with the private sector, we can improve the academic performance and overall well-being of our students,” he noted.

Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Curriculum Powered by Advanced Technology

At the heart of the ARAL Program lies Chalkboard’s evidence-based curriculum, meticulously designed to ensure effective learning outcomes. This curriculum is grounded in the latest educational research and best practices, ensuring that each component is proven to enhance literacy and numeracy skills. A key feature of this curriculum is its integration of advanced technology to process data and inform the progress of each student.


ARAL Program Structure and Implementation

The ARAL Program employs a comprehensive, evidence-based strategy to address learning deficits exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Developed by Chalkboard, the program offers up to 25 days of targeted tutoring over six weeks, delivered through both in-person and digital platforms. This high-frequency, intensive approach is supported by research demonstrating substantial improvements in literacy and numeracy skills.

The program includes several key components:
• Personalized Learning: The tutoring sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, ensuring that every learner receives the appropriate support.

• Nutritional Support: Recognizing the connection between nutrition and learning, the ARAL Program will provide nutritious snacks or meals during each tutoring session to support students’ well-being.

• Community Upskilling and Engagement: The program involves local community members as paid tutors, creating economic opportunities while fostering a supportive educational environment.

• Holistic Development: In addition to academic support, the ARAL Program aims to develop students’ socio-emotional skills, preparing them for success both in and outside of the classroom.
Chalkboard has designed the program to be scalable and sustainable, ensuring it can be replicated in different regions and communities across the Philippines. “We believe that education is the key to unlocking the full potential of every child,” said Kristine E. Brown, CEO of Chalkboard. “The ARAL Program is our contribution to improving the educational landscape of the Philippines, particularly in addressing the learning gaps that have been exacerbated by recent challenges such as the pandemic.”

Target Beneficiaries and Community Impact

The primary beneficiaries of the ARAL Program are K-10 students in public schools, particularly those struggling with literacy and numeracy. The program’s implementation will begin with pilot schools, and its success will be measured through Chalkboard’s assessment system, supplemented by DepEd’s assessment tools.

The program not only benefits students but also the wider community. Local community members will be engaged as paid tutors or food vendors, providing them with meaningful employment opportunities while contributing to the educational success of the students.

DepEd will coordinate closely with Chalkboard to select target areas and ensure smooth program implementation. Monitoring and evaluation will be conducted throughout the program’s two-year duration to ensure that it delivers tangible and verifiable results.

A Model for Future Educational Partnerships

The ARAL Program will be funded through partnerships with private sponsors, local government units, and other supporting entities. With the support of these stakeholders, the program aims to create a lasting positive impact on the academic performance and socio-emotional development of Filipino students.

This collaboration between DepEd and Chalkboard is seen as a model for future public-private partnerships in education. Both parties are optimistic that the ARAL Program will not only help bridge current learning gaps but also lay the foundation for long-term educational improvements in the country.








Unleash the Power Within and Win Tickets to OPPO’s block screening of Venom: The Last Dance


Leading global smart device OPPO is calling on everyone, especially OPPO Reno12 Series 5G users, to join the hunt for Venom and Eddie Brock for a chance to watch Venom: The Last Dance on October 23, the same day as its premiere in Philippine cinemas.

OPPO, in partnership with Sony, is hosting a thrilling three-day contest on Facebook until October 20 to give 20 lucky winners two tickets each to the exclusive block screening of the third installment of the anti-hero trilogy. The block screening will be on October 23, 6:00PM at Central Square Cinemas, Bonifacio High Street, BGC.

Are you excited to Unleash the Power Within and take part in hunting Venom and Eddie? Here’s how you can join:


Answer this question posted on OPPO Philippines’ page: Which OPPO Reno12 Series 5G feature mentioned in the trailer do you like the most?

Write your answer in the comment section of the post and use the hashtags #UnleashthePowerWithin and #OPPOReno12Series5G.

Share the post on your feed so more people can hunt for Venom!





If you are an OPPO Circle Member, you must include your My OPPO App username to boost your chances of winning. Bonus points if you invite two non-members to join this group. 10 lucky winners will receive two tickets each to the exclusive block screening.



This contest is open to Metro Manila residents only. Winners will be announced on October 21, 2024, through OPPO Philippines' official Facebook page and OPPO Circle.



For more information on the OPPO Reno12 Series 5G and the partnership with Sony for Venom: The Last Dance, please visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ and Facebook page. You may also drop by the OPPO Brand Stores in Glorietta, SM North EDSA and SM Mall of Asia from October 23 to 31 to catch Venom’s take over in time for Halloween.

CHERRY Groove Bluetooth Speaker, the perfect gift idea for music lovers

If you and your friends love partying, working out, or just listening to music in general, then the perfect gift idea is the CHERRY Groove Bluetooth Speaker! 


In a society filled with auditory technology is emerging as an exceptional item with the amalgamation of aesthetic design fine quality sound. A speaker that will promise you an elevated audio experience whether you are an audiophile or a casual listener. The audio performance is one of the significant aspects of this product. No need for extra equipment to use this speaker because it’s transportable and easy to bring anywhere, especially when you love listening to music when you and you are on the go!

Jam to your favorite song with the CHERRY Groove Bluetooth Speaker. It’s portable and lightweight so you don’t have to worry about heftiness! The 800mAh battery capacity will allow you up to 9hrs long lasting battery. Adjust the volume at any rate you want because it has a loud speaker with 3W output. Additionally, this product also has a TWS function, type – c charging, FM mode so you can listen to the radio, IPX4 water resistant for extra safety when out and about, and Bluetooth V5.3. The CHERRY Groove Bluetooth Speaker can easily be connected to your devices so you can connect it with your phone, computer, or tablet with ease.

Prove your moves with the CHERRY Groove Bluetooth Speaker for only PHP 590—a speaker that can make you dance anywhere you are with its loud sound and flexibility! With this product, you don’t have to keep songs all to yourself anymore. Whether you’re having fun outside or just dancing like no one’s watching inside, you can move with the CHERRY Groove Bluetooth Speaker! Also available in three appealing colors: Pink / Blue / Gray.

For more information, visit:

CHERRY Shop PH: www.cherryshop.com.ph
Shopee: https://bit.ly/CherryPhShopee
Lazada: https://bit.ly/CherryPhLazada

October 19, 2024

Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Delivering tailored sound wherever you go

Powered by Galaxy AI, these three key features will redefine your listening experience


Experience a new era of audio excellence as Galaxy AI comes to the all-new Galaxy Buds3 Pro. Bring the power of Galaxy AI’s unrivaled tailored sound wherever you go and experience a pristine personalized soundscape.

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro is not just a listening device — it connects you to a smarter, more immersive sound world with enhanced listening with three unparalleled features: Adaptive Noise Control (ANC), Intelligent Design, and seamless integration with the Galaxy Ecosystem.

Worry-free automatic sound adjustment with AI-optimized Adaptive Noise Control

Whether you're in a bustling café or a quiet library, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro features an AI-boosted Adaptive EQ and ANC algorithm that analyzes sound and optimizes it in real-time for your personalized listening experience. The Siren Detect and Voice Detect features also further enhance your safety and convenience by recognizing emergency sounds and shifting to Ambient Mode during conversations keeping you aware and connected.

Meanwhile, Voice Command provides hands-free control of your Galaxy Buds3 Pro by simply using your voice to play, pause, or skip tracks without touching the earbuds or your connected device.

With Galaxy AI-optimized Adaptive Noise Control, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro offers a seamless and unrivaled communication experience that effortlessly fits into your life.

Intelligent and ergonomically engineered design

Experience the perfect blend of cutting-edge technology and stylish design with the Galaxy Buds3 Pro. With its ergonomic yet intelligent design, it features enhanced 2-way speakers and a planar tweeter, complemented by Dual Amplifiers for pristine and refined high-fidelity sound with Samsung Seamless Codec at 24-bit or 96kHz.

Its Blade Lights allow you to conveniently control your earbuds with simple gestures, while its ergonomic, small-angled heads ensure a comfortable and secure fit even while controlling it. Your Galaxy AI-enabled, IP67 water-resistant Buds3 Pro comes with a sleek case with a transparent cover and delicate curved shape, equipped with a USB-C and wirelessly charging case.

These aesthetically appealing Galaxy Buds3 series are also just as functionally impressive, offering both designed for exceptional performance and stylish ergonomic comfort.

The gateway to an audio-immersive Galaxy ecosystem

With Galaxy AI, your Galaxy Ecosystem audio experience takes you to a whole new level. With Interpreter, breaking language barriers is easier with Listening Mode and Conversation Mode. Through Listening Mode, the Buds3 Pro will continue interpreting as the conversation flows while with Conversation Mode, you can position the phone’s mic toward the speaker, and short press your Galaxy Buds3 Pro to listen to your conversation translated in real-time.

Innovating shared sound like never before, your Galaxy Buds3 Pro’s Auracast transforms your Galaxy ecosystem into a communal radio source that allows you to share your favorite music for others to tune in. Whether you’re watching a movie or sharing your favorite playlist, Auracast makes it easy to turn any listening moment into an enjoyable shared experience.

Immerse into a whole new standard of audio and mobile experiences with the all-new Galaxy Buds3 series! To know more about the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, please visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/audio-sound/galaxy-buds/galaxy-buds3-pro-silver-sm-r630nzaaasa/.



PLDT Home Uncaps 5G+ Experience with Home WiFi


PLDT Home ushers a new era of 5G technology in the country with the new PLDT Home WiFi 5G+, capable of delivering uncapped speeds of up to 1.5Gbps at the ground-breaking introductory price of only P1,495.

“PLDT Home has always been at the forefront of driving innovations in broadband technologies in the country. Backed by our robust network, our fixed wireless access (FWA) has the capability to deliver up to 1.5 Gbps. With an advanced device that connects to the 5G and 4G network, our PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ is changing the game in the wireless segment,” says Jeremiah de la Cruz, PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business Home Group.

PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ is leading the next wave of fixed wireless evolution for Filipinos. "As we continue to expand our network nationwide, our customers on 4G can already enjoy its benefits now and look forward to the 5G experience with our continuous 5G roll-out. With the continued demand for fixed wireless solutions in the country, our focus remains – to deliver reliable connectivity for our customers’ better digital experiences at home,” he adds.

Delivering Gigabit speeds with 5G+

In today’s digital world, a strong internet connection is essential for work, school, and staying connected with loved ones. PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ features WiFi 6 technology that addresses these needs head-on, capable of speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps.
WiFi 6 offers dual band, built-in antenna and connects up to 15 devices at home, ensuring that everyone in the family can stay connected. This technology supports faster data transfer and higher bandwidth compared to earlier standards other internet providers still use. This enhances speed, range, and performance, ensuring seamless 4K streaming, smooth online gaming, and uninterrupted video calls for remote work or online classes.

Offering flexible connectivity

PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ stands out for its affordability and flexibility. The reloadable prepaid model allows families to manage their internet expenses effectively, avoiding installation fees and giving them control over their usage—perfect for those on a budget.

Its plug-and-play setup is user-friendly, requiring no complex installation, and customers can easily top up their data with options like FamLoad All Access, Unlifam, and Magic Data. With load prices starting at just ₱99, families can tailor their WiFi access to fit their daily needs.

To kickstart the real 5G experience, PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ offers unlimited WiFi for 15 days without any speed cap, available upon successful registration of the SIM that comes with the device.


Widest network in PH

The PLDT Group’s continued investments in enhancing its integrated network and in innovating its products and services are aligned with the group’s commitment to democratize access to the latest technologies like 5G, enable 5G for all, and deliver leveled-up customer experience across the country. Its mobile network Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) covers 97% of the population and is part of the Philippines’ largest integrated network that includes PLDT’s most extensive fiber infrastructure.

This initiative contributes to the PLDT Group’s endeavors to narrow the digital divide, provide connectivity to all, and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) particularly SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. These also reinforce the Group’s support for the Government's overall digitalization thrust.

For more information on PLDT Home WiFi, visit PLDT Home WiFi 5G+.

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