The

DepEd
Zambales
Journal
The Official Publication of the
Schools Division of Zambales
Volume X No. 1
JANUARY - JUNE 2022
The
DepEd
Zambales
Journal
The Official Publication of the
Schools Division of Zambales
The
DepEd
Zambales
Journal
The Official Publication of the
Schools Division of Zambales
Volume X No. 1
JANUARY - JUNE 2022

EDITORIAL BOARD
Editor-in-Chief
JUAN DELA CRUZ

Copy Editors / Reviewers

JUAN DELA CRUZ

Contributors
JUAN DELA CRUZ /
JUAN DELA CRUZ /
JUAN DELA CRUZ /
JUAN DELA CRUZ /
JUAN DELA CRUZ /
JUAN DELA CRUZ /
JUAN DELA CRUZ /
JUAN DELA CRUZ /

Consultants
JUAN DELA CRUZ
JUAN DELA CRUZ
JUAN DELA CRUZ

Chief Education Supervisor, SGOD

JUAN DELA CRUZ

OIC Assistant Schools Division Superintendent

JUAN DELA CRUZ

Schools Division Superintendent

JUAN DELA CRUZ
 Creating a Happy Learning Environment
Amid Pandemic
E ven before COVID-19 forced the world to adjust to the
new normal, I always wanted to create a happy learning
environment where learners would have the space to
grow, flourish, and become happy and content adults in the
future. A famous person once said, “No medicine cures what
happiness cannot.” During these difficult times, having a happy
environment enables learners to express themselves more and
develop their talents for future use.
Research shows that when learners don’t feel threatened at all,
they have the willingness to be vulnerable and to be open to
new ideas and guidance from others (Alber, 2013). Moreover,
the co-founder of the NeuroLeadership Institute, Dr. David
Rock, said that “people experiencing positive emotions gener-
ally perform better overall.”
Happiness is positively associated with intrinsic motivation (a
personal drive to learn) for all students, and also with extrinsic
motivation (outside sources like rewards, praise, or avoiding
punishment) for students in grades K–3. It is also positively
associated with GPA for students in grades 4–12 (Jones, 2015).
But how can we ensure happy learners? The answer is very
simple.
When the school head is happy, all of his or her teachers will be
happy, too. As happiness is considered to be contagious, having
a school head who knows how to treat their staff well will be
treated with respect and admiration by everyone. If the school
head does not cause unnecessary stress to their teachers, the
teachers will be happy too. This is why we continuously encour-
age everyone to promote a happy workplace environment for
everyone.
When the teachers are happy, the learners are happy, too.
When teachers use motivational techniques and do not bore
learners with concepts they do not easily comprehend, learners
are expected to learn faster. When teachers always give com-
pliments, are always ready to smile, and always willing to listen,
learners’ trust can be easily gained, and thus, they will establish
a good teacher-student relationship.
I know that all of us experience hardships and that we are not
spared from so many challenges in life. But if we choose to
inspire other people to be happy, then we too can be happy.
Happiness can also be achieved when we make other people
happy.
So, my dear teaching and non-teaching staff, I encourage you
to always have a positive mindset. There are many things in the
world that we cannot change, but if we change our perspective
on things, we will be surprised at how big the impact will be on
our lives.
As the famous adage goes, smile and the whole world smiles
with you.
“I know that all of us experience
hardships and that we are not
spared from so many
challenges in life. But if we
choose to inspire other people
to be happy, then we too can
be happy. Happiness can also
be achieved when we make
other people happy.
Dr. Romeo M. Alip EdD, CESO V
Schools Division Superintendent
 Love Thyself
M y namesake Michelle Obama, an attorney, author, and
former FLOTUS, once said, “We need to do a better job
of putting ourselves higher on our own ‘to-do list’.”
The teaching profession was never an easy job. It requires a lot
of patience, understanding, and passion. The pandemic that we
all suffered from only exacerbated the plight of the ordinary
teachers fighting every day just to provide their learners with
the quality education, attention, and affection they need to
become whole.
But for us to give these to our learners, we need to focus on
ourselves more. We cannot share love when we do not even
love ourselves, and we cannot take care of others if we do not
care for ourselves. Everything starts and ends with us.
So how are we going to practice self-care and self-love? Let me
share with you things that I apply to myself that I know can
help you achieve these things.
First, know how to unplug. On our busy days, the disturbance
of overlapping tasks and heavy workloads can add unnecessary
stress to our lives. As individuals, we need to give respect to
ourselves and try to unplug from the chaotic world. Detach-
ment from social media and other forms of communication
once in a while and instead focusing on ourselves can lead us
to hear our own needs. Do not beat yourselves up if sometimes
we wake up late or we crave an episode or two of our favorite
Korean drama. This is not wasted time if we do it to pause from
our usual busy schedule to rest and enjoy.
Second, although we set certain standards in the things that
we do, whether in personal aspects or work-related aspects, it
is important that we also consider our limitations. Sometimes,
stress is also caused by the standards we set for ourselves and,
in turn, makes our lives difficult. We strive for excellence in all
the things that we do. However, we must admit that we are
only humans bound to make mistakes. Letting go of perfection-
ism will not only make our work easier, which will in turn make
our lives more stress-free.
Third, let us learn how to change our habits. Lao Tzu once said,
“Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your
words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they
become your habits; watch your habits, they become your char-
acter; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.” Changing
even the littlest things that we know are not helping us may
ripple into something big one day. It is important that we start
small and learn how to appreciate and celebrate this small suc-
cess. After all, success is a series of small victories.
These are just three of the many things that we can do to show
appreciation for ourselves. Some may apply to you, or you
may have your own way of doing things. To put it simply, even
though we have friends and family to take care of us, at the
end of the day, we are the ones who know what we need. Listen
more to your body and take a break once in a while.
Dear teaching and non-teaching personnel, you are the body
and soul of our schools division. Take care of yourselves so we
can take more care of each other.
“ Do not beat yourselves up if
sometimes we wake up late
or we crave an episode or two
of our favorite Korean drama.
This is not wasted time if we
do it to pause from our usual
busy schedule to rest and en-
joy.
Michelle Ablian – Mejica EdD
OIC – Assistant Schools Division Superintendent
 LRP is the key
O ur schools have finally reopened as the need for
face-to-face classes have come to the point of indis-
pensability with the data disclosing the bleak reality
in terms of our learners’ academic performance.
Rising up. The past couple of years has been the most
challenging epoch in education. As the World Bank puts it,
two things are now vividly clear: (1) the learning losses and
the ensuing social and economic costs are substantial; (2)
urgent and ambitious action is needed to recover losses and
accelerate learning.
Recovery trail. The CID has three major areas of concern in
addressing learning losses focused on literacy, numeracy,
and science process skills: (1) instructional management and
supervision; (2) learning resource management and devel-
opment; (3) assessment of learning.
The Schools Division Learning Recovery and Continuity Plan
(SD-LRCP) articulates the goal, interventions, and critical ac-
tions in its implementation plan to give directions towards
the realization of the target outcomes and performance
indicators. Also, capacity building for teachers is given
premium as “there will be no recovery without empowered,
motivated, and effective teachers.” (World Bank, 2021)
Looking back. Together, we have weathered the storm – the
height of the pandemic. And we are sustaining the initia-
tives so that education for Zambaleño learners continues.
The experiences that we had, the challenges that we have
hurdled have truly strengthened us as individuals and as an
organization. With the wisdom and guidance of our leaders,
we remained on track and focused on what needs to be
attained especially in the implementation of the curriculum.
Heading on. Our efforts, initiatives in championing learning
continuity, recovery most of all, have to be strengthened as
we usher the post-pandemic era. More urgent and ambi-
tious actions, so to speak, must be undertaken, guided by
the SD-LRCP that we have crafted together. The Schools’
LRCP anchored on this provides the unified direction to-
wards the attainment of set targets and objectives.
Leading forward. The very season for our being in the
education system is our learners. How we ensure the reali-
zation of their full potential depends on how we discharge
our functions in all governance levels. Teachers take the
lead in the delivery of instruction – MELCs implementation,
learning engagement through effective instruction with
appropriate modality, addressing learning gaps and losses
especially in the areas of literacy, numeracy, and science
process skills. Continuous capacity building (upskilling,
reskilling) activities are in place to ensure that teachers’
content and pedagogical knowledge, skills, and attitudes
match the needs of the learners.
As always, together, we can make it through.
“Leading forward. The very season
for our being in the education
system is our learners. How we
ensure the realization of their full
potential depends on how we
discharge our functions in all
governance levels.
Manolito B. Basilio EdD
Chief Education Supervisor, Curriculum and
Implementation Division
 Coming together for a safe school
T he Schools Division of Zambales was one of the valiant
frontrunners in the quest to bring back learners to the
four corners of the classroom. We participated in the
pilot implementation of face-to-face classes on November 15,
2021, with ten schools in the Geographically Isolated and Dis-
advantaged Areas (GIDA). As of March 21, 2022, 313 out of 313
public elementary, secondary, and integrated schools in our
division have already reopened their schools after acquiring
SSAT (School Safety Assessment Tool) certification from the
DepEd regional office and the Local Government Unit (LGU)
concurrence at the barangay and municipal levels.
The efforts we have made in the past years to ensure the deliv-
ery of safe education in our schools have now come to fruition.
We have closed the previous school year relatively peaceful
and safe, all thanks to the combined efforts of the SDO Zam-
bales personnel in monitoring the schools. Moreover, the per-
severance, cooperation, and strict implementation of minimum
health and safety protocols demonstrated by the teaching
and non-teaching personnel in the 313 schools in SDO Zam-
bales deserve recognition and appreciation. On behalf of our
Schools Division Superintendent, Dr. Romeo M. Alip, we thank
all of you for your sacrifices and hard work for the success of
our school year. Thank you for keeping our learners safe. future.
Aside from our brave teaching and non-teaching staff, we
would also like to thank our partners in the community. We
deeply appreciate the Local Government Units (LGUs) for
coming up with various support to help our schools. Some
even initiated and provided Barangay Health Workers (BHWs)
to be placed in school triages. We also would like to thank our
partners in the private and non-government organizations
(NGOs). Thank you for serving as our scaffold during the time
that we are also adjusting due to the pandemic. May the Good
Lord bless you a thousand fold.
Due to the proclamation of our newly-elected President Ferdi-
nand Marcos, Jr., supported by the Department of Education
Secretary and Vice President Sarah Z. Duterte, the face-to-face
classes will now be in full implementation come November
2022. With this, we are again requesting everyone’s cooper-
ation as we ensure to provide quality education in a safe and
conducive learning environment for our Zambaleňo learners.
The pandemic changed the educational landscape that we had
all gotten used to in the past. Now more than ever, we need
to ensure that our learners are physically and psychologically
healthy as they walk down the path of formal education. Our
role to keep our learners safe is also included in our Division
Learning Recovery and Continuity Plan. This is our blueprint
to ensure that not only our learners will be knowledgeable
but also physically able to become productive citizens in the
To you, our dear teaching and non-teaching personnel, we
know that you are more than capable of doing these things.
We, in the Schools Division Office, will help you in every step
of the way. Para sa Bata, DepEd Zambales!
“To you, our dear teaching and
non-teaching personnel, we
know that you are more than
capable of doing these things.
We, in the Schools Division
Office, will help you in every
step of the way. Para sa Bata,
DepEd Zambales!
Ailyn C. Eay
Chief Education Supervisor, School Governance
and Operations Division
 About this issue

T
hey say that if we want to prolong the life of a memory, we should put it into writing. All of the
anguish, all of the pain, all of the worries. The same goes with happiness, with laughter, and good
times. All of these, when put into writing, ensure a memory engraved in ink forever.

In this pandemic, various experiences gave birth
to various masterpieces. Some retell a story about
their near-death experience because of COVID 19.
Some opted to share how they ensure the delivery
of quality education even during the pandemic. As
frontliners in ensuring that learners will still receive
the education they deserve even during the darkest
times, it is only proper to live and relive the bravery
of our teaching and non-teaching staff during these
challenging times.
Our courageous and hardworking staff opened their
hearts to you, readers. This is what they felt, what
they experienced, and what they want you to learn
from their journey. This is somewhat of a compila-
tion of somebody’s dream, nightmare, accomplish-
ment, or momentary downfall. This is a collection of
life itself.
the ashes of failure and regret. To put it simply, this
issue is about us.
My dear readers, this is not without flaws, and for
that I sincerely apologize. But life itself is not perfect,
and being imperfectly real makes us the humans
that we are.
I want to thank all the contributors who let us into
their hearts and minds by sharing their stories.
Reading all of your stories makes me prouder to be
a part of this strong institution that is the Depart-
ment of Education.
We always say, “Para sa Bata, Para sa Bayan.” But
sometimes, we also have to say, “Para sa Sarili.”
My colleagues in the department, this is for you.

I think it is safe to say that we have all learned a

thing or two from the pandemic. But opening the
pages of this issue will make you remember those
times. Stories about our very own staff succumbing
to the COVID-19 disease will make us appreciate
life more. Stories about the crafting of the Learning
Continuity and Recovery Plan, on the other hand,
will teach us how to bounce back and return from
“
We always say, “Para sa Bata,
Para sa Bayan.” But sometimes,
we also have to say,
“Para sa Sarili.”
My colleagues in the department,
this is for you.
Bryan Jester Balmeo
Editor-in-Chief
 The
DepEd
Zambales
Journal
The Official Publication of the
Schools Division of Zambales
Volume X No. 1
JANUARY - JUNE 2022
SDS Alip takes steps to stop learning losses,
crafts division LRCP
“The pandemic caused learning losses, and we must be aggressive to address learning gaps. We believe that the
School Learning Recovery and Continuity Plan (SLRCP) is the key,” Dr. Romeo M. Alip affirmed in front of school
heads of Zones 1 and 2 during the Schools Division Face-to-Face Training Workshop on the Development of Learn-
ing Recovery Plans (LRP) in San Agustin Pastoral Center, Iba, Zambales, April 25.
The Learning Recovery Plan aims to
ensure the sustainability of the proj-
ects, programs, and activities con-
ducted during the pandemic and craft
more interventions to turn the cited
learning losses into learning gains.
“
Liezel L. Cruz
Master Teacher II
For SDO Zambales, the LRP focused on
the improvement of “Bata, Basa, Bilang,
and Suri” as reflected in its title, through
the use of a 4-point strategy tagged as
the SOAR framework. These strategies are
as follows: strengthen literacy, numeracy,
and science instruction through supervi-
sion, provision of learning resources, and
assessment; overcome shortages through
equitable distribution of resources; ad-
vance teachers’ professional excellence
through professional and development
programs; and raise school resources rela-
tive to literacy,numeracy, and science skills.
“To intensify interventions, aside from
The Learning Recovery Plan aims to en-
sure the sustainability of the projects,
programs, and activities conducted
during the pandemic and craft more
interventions to turn the cited learning
losses into learning gains.
10 editorial
From Unsung
35
Hindi hadlang
Heroes... ang edad...
LEADING THE WAY. Dr. Michelle
Ablian-Mejica, OIC, Assistant Schools
Division Superintendent explains
the content of the first draft of the
School Learning Recovery Plan.
teachers, school heads must be given time
to monitor the regular conduct of home
visitations and follow-ups; implement
more time in hybrid study groups or bud-
dy systems; create programs involving par-
ents at home and in the community; tap
the services of parent or guardian teach-
er-volunteers; and develop appropriate as-
sessment tasks and resources,” Dr. Blesilda
D. Fontanilla, District Supervisor of Botolan
District, stated, citing the main goal of the
National Learning Recovery Framework.
The Schools Division LRP was crafted with
the help of all the functional divisions in
SDO Zambales, spearheaded by the Cur-
riculum and Implementation Division (CID)
Chief Education Supervisor (Chief ES), Dr.
Manolito B. Basilio. It was presented by Dr.
Michelle Ablian-Mejica, Assistant Schools
Division Superintendent, during the Re-
gional Presentation of Division LRP on May
12, 2022.
feature 42 Solar Farm
science
sa Palauig...
Development of Model SLRPs
Through Division Memoran-
dum No. 182, s. 2022, SDO
Zambales initiated the work-
shop of model LRPs. The work-
shop aimed to examine the
presented Schools Division LRP,
capacitate the 13 participants in
crafting a model SLRP, and craft
a model SLRP for the different
school categories. Dr. Lilybeth
Bacolor, Education Program
Supervisor (EPS) in Filipino; Dr.
Evelyn Tarrayo, EPS Science; Dr.
Rachelle C. Diviva, EPS Math-
ematics; Gina Borje, Division
English Coordinator; and Dr.
Manolito B. Basilio, Chief ES,
from the Curriculum and Im-
plementation Division (CID)
provided technical assistance
to the model SLRP writers. On
the other hand, Dr. Bryan Jest-
er S. Balmeo, Division Research
Coordinator with the School
Governance and Operations Di-
vision (SGOD) Chief ES Ailyn C.
Eay, also provided their insights
that helped the model writers
craft their respective SLRPs. It
was held last June 1, 2022, at
the Zambales Teachers’ Training
Center, DepEd Compound, Iba,
Zambales.

Provision of Technical Assistance to Schools

Following Division Memoran-
dum No. 198, s. 2022, school
heads presented their craft-
ed School Learning Recovery
Plans to their respective Dis-
trict Review Committees (DRC)
last June 22-23, 2022. The DRC
was composed of the Pub-
lic Schools District Supervisor
(PSDS)/Coordinating Principals
(CPs) as chair, EPSs in charge
principal position in the district
as co-chairs, and the respective
district coordinators/school
heads. The presentation was
followed by the provision of
technical assistance (TA), where
DRC members were asked to
clarify certain questions relative
to the crafting of the SLRP. The
event was followed by the sub-
mission of SLRP in book format.

“
in each district and the highest

From SLRP to SLRCP

The School Learning Recovery
and Continuity Plan is an en-
hanced version of the School
Learning Recovery Plan as stat-
ed in Regional Memorandum
No. 395, s. 2022.
Aside from this change, school
heads were asked to make
minor changes regarding the
previous developed School
Learning Recovery Plan (SLRP).
This aims to correct targets on
quality in literacy for both En-
glish and Filipino; numeracy
for mathematics and science;
and also, to provide additional
strategies that give psychoso-
cial support to both learners
and personnel.
Encouraging all the teaching and non-teach-
ing staff to work hand in hand in the imple-
Dr. Michelle Ablian - Mejica, mentation of the SLCRP, ASDS Mejica said,
OIC – Assistant Schools Division
Superintendent, gives her all
“ Together, let us recover lost learning now,
out support in the implemen- because later might be too late.”
tation, thus, reiterated that the
framework must include a safe
and conducive learning envi-
ronment for learners this com-
ing opening of classes.
Encouraging all the teaching
and non-teaching staff to work
hand in hand in the implemen-
tation of the SLCRP, ASDS Meji-
ca said, “Together, let us recov-
er lost learning now, because
later might be too late.”
The opening of classes is sched-
uled on August 22, 2022.
 SDO Zambales Hailed
No.1 in Region III for At-
taining 99.97% Budget
Utilization Rate
Ellen Arcala Sol

2
SDO Finance Services Unit – Budget Section
Tiyaking lahat ay tama para sa mga bata.
Masusing siniyasat ni Dr. Evelyn D. Tarrayo ang mga Administrative Officer V for
kagamitang pampagturo ni Gng. Liezel L. Cruz upang Finance Services (Budget Officer III)
news

matiyak na akma sa Learners’ Progressive Checklist

Progressive expanded face-to-face
classes, pinaigting
Liezel L. Cruz
Master Teacher II
Palauig District
VOL X Sinimulan na ng Schools
No. 01 Division of Zambales
ang malawakang pagsa-
sagawa ng monitoring
sa progressive expanded
face-to-face classes sa
bawat paaralan alinsunod
sa Regional Memoran-
dum No. 156, s. 2022, Marso 15.
Mahigit 60 na paaralan mula key stage 1
hanggang key stage 3 ang kalahok sa nasa-
bing programa. Sa pangunguna ni Dr. Romeo
M. Alip, CESO V, nilagdaan niya ang SDM No.
96, s. 2022 upang ipatupad ang Monitoring
(LPC) ang mga nilalaman ng Daily Lesson Log.
Larawan: Kuha ni Ann A. Yap, Principal II .
of Progresive Expansion of Face-to-face
Classes sa buong Lalawigan ng Zambales.
Nilayon nito na bigyan ng pagkakataon
lahat ng mga Education Program Supervi-
sors (EPS), Schools Division Coordinators
(SDCs) at mga Public Schools District
Supervisors (PSDSs) gayundin ang mga
Coordinating Principals (CPs) na mag-
sagawa ng malawakang pasubaybay at
pagsasagawa ng class observations simula
March 15 hanggang 16.
Karagdagan pa, ang nasabing monitor-
ing ay upang makalap ang mga pan-
gangailangan pa ng mga guro at mga
mag-aaral lalo na ang mga kabilang sa
face-to-face modality .
PROGRESSIVE PAGE 6
The Schools Division Office
(SDO) of Zambales was able
to utilize 99.97% of its overall
budget covering the Appropri-
ations for Personnel Services
(PS), Maintenance & Other
Operating Expenses (MOOE),
Capital Outlay (CO) and other
Downloaded Program Support
Funds for the Fiscal Year (FY)
2021.
Relative to budget utilization
and implementation of var-
ious Programs, Projects and
Activities (PPAs), SDO Zam-
bales ranked 3rd as the most
performing division offices and
1st among the provinces in
Region III. This means that Php
3,616,874,786.21 was utilized
from the Php 3,617,817,922.27
total allotment leaving only
Php 943,136.06 unobligated
SDO ZAMBALES PAGE 8

SDZ implements innovative gardening project,

EPS highlights floating platform garden
129, s. 2020, titled “Skills status of the
Bernard A. Madriaga
Teacher-III Training on Gardening Proj- educational
San Miguel National High School ect Towards Landscaping of system for it
Edible Plants (GP-TLE),” SDZ will benefit
The unprecedented outbreak conceived and launched the teach-
of the coronavirus brought the “Student’s Agricultural ers, learn-
about numerous challenges Gardening Implemented in ers and
affects the country’s educa- the Family (SAGIF)-EPP/TLE/
tional system. The Department TV” project, the main ob-
of Education (DepEd) and stu- jective of which is to initiate
dents alike had to surmount, agricultural innovations as
but those difficult situations well as to help rekindle stu-
did not deter the learners dents’ interest in agriculture.
from developing their creative
skills and interests in agricul- Jay D. Morados, MSA, Edu-
ture. The implementation of cation Program Supervisor community.
an innovative gardening proj- for EPP/TLE/TVL-AFA & IA,
ect by the Schools Division stated that developing new “The pedagogical DEDICATED AND INNOVATIVE. Arrjay D. Arcala, a
of Zambales (SDZ) is a proof pedagogical approaches approaches used
sixteen-year-old agriculture student at San Miguel
National High School (SMNHS), demonstrates his
of passion and resiliency. in agriculture must contin- in the classroom passion for innovation through his own version of a
ue even though everyone is
floating platform garden, which was approved by the
by teachers have Schools Division Zambales.
In support of DepEd’s RM No. dealing with the new normal
SDZ IMPLEMENTS PAGE 6 (Photo by: Jospehine N. Sales, T3, SMNHS)
 3

news
VOL X
DepEd Zambales performers win big No. 01
in FFP21-9NPAF Virtual Competition
Bernard A. Madriaga

DANCE ZAMBALES. Kailyan La Paz National High School (LPNHS)
Performing Arts Group of San Narciso District represents DepEd
Zambales at the FFP21-9NPAF and finishes third in the Virtual Com-
petition. SINGKIL is a well-known Maranao dance that tells the story
of a princess attempting to flee her abductor. awards, December 20, 2021.
Photo by: Neil R. Factura, T1, LPNHS
The Philippine Arts and Culture Educators Society (PACES),
in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd),
the National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCAA), the
Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGC),
and the Executive Committee of the Fun-Fiesta Sa Pilipinas
2021, 9th National Performing Arts Festival (FFP21-9NPAF),
expressed appreciation and gratitude to the performers
in Schools Division of Zambales (SDZ), who won various
PACES notified Dr. Romeo M. Alip, CESO IV, the Schools
Division Superintendent (SDS) of DepEd Zambales, via letter,
that participants in the aforementioned national virtual com-
petition received various awards and were congratulated by
the organizers. The ranking of the participating schools in
Zambales is shown in the table below. FFP21-9NPAF PAGE 4

SDO Zambales, NGOs signs

MOA; vows to uphold
children’s rights
John Michael G. Edejer, Project Development Officer I
The Schools Division of Zambales, in upholding
the rights of the child to special protection and re-
iterating the policy of zero tolerance for any act of
abuse, violence, exploitation, discrimination, and
bullying against the child spearheaded the sign-
ing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with
Stairway Foundation, Inc., Save the Children Phil-
ippines Inc., PREDA Foundation, Inc., and ACTION,
Inc. through its Legal Unit and Youth Formation
Division.

In his message, Schools Division Superintendent

Dr. Romeo M. Alip highlighted the importance of
having a safe learning environment in schools for
the children while enjoying their rights and pro-
mote the Rights-Based Education (RBE).
CHILDREN’S RIGHTS PAGE 5
 San Marcelino hosts ELLN workshop DepEd eases
provident fund
loan application
Joseph Ranstedt V. Collado
The Department of Education

4
(DepEd) releases DepEd Order Nos.
3 and 8, s. 2022, on February 17
and March 3, respectively, which
news

Dr. Maria Lilybeth M. Bacolor, Education Program prescribe the maximum loanable
Supervisor in Filipino monitoring the Technical Team amount and delegate approving
authorities under the DepEd Prov-
from Linasin ES during the webinar for ELLN Key
Stage 1.
Photo taken by Brendel Ugao-Ugao, Linasin ES ICT ident Fund Program to extend the
ceilings on PF loans to assist DepEd
Coordinator
employees with their financial re-
Brendel Ugao-Ugao tal of 246 participants from Subic to Sta Cruz quirements.
Teacher III district.
Linasin Elementary School These issuances enhance DepEd
Orders 36, s. 2007, and 37, s. 2018.
VOL X San Marcelino District puts “The webinar turned out well and the facili-
No. 01 its name on the record of its tator and technical team created a friendly The maximum loanable amount for
and easy communication between the speak-
department in Zambales as a multi-purpose loan is P100,000.00,
ers and the participants during the entire
the first district to host a while the maximum additional
duration of the workshop. The outputs were
division-wide webinar for loan amount for exceptional in-
validated well, and problems encountered stances has also been increased to
crafting formative assess-
were troubleshot right at every moment it P200,000.00 effective February 17.
ment tools for Early Lan-
glitched.” Dr. Maria Lilybeth M. Bacolor, Ed-
guages, Literacy, And Numeracy (ELLN) under
ucation Program Supervisor in Filipino stated. All loan applications of teaching
New Normal of the Department of Education,
Dr. Bacolor with Mrs. Gina R. Borje, Division and non-teaching personnel in the
March 8. Schools Division must be autho-
English Coordinator and Division ELLN Focal
person lead the webinar workshop for ELLn rized and approved by the Schools
School Division Memorandum No. 54, s. 2022 Division Superintendent.
Key Stage 1.
ordered San Marcelino District to gather its
best Information and Communication Technol- Prior to the publication of these
The workshop started March 8 and concluded
ogy (ICT) coordinators who will work in creating revised guidelines, approval of a
on the 11th day of March was a reverberate of multi-purpose loan in the amount
and facilitating the webinar conducted using
the recent webinar conducted by the regional of P100,000 was delegated to the
the Microsoft Office Teams platform. The team
office supporting the ELLN program that fo- Regional Director, while addition-
was headed by Mr. Tristan Jay V. Fulgueras,
cuses on capacitating the Key Stage 1 teach- al loans for exceptional instances
School Principal IV and District Coordinator of
ers on the basic knowledge and pedagogical were approved by the Undersecre-
San Marcelino with the assistance of Dr. Virgin- tary for Finance.
skills in literacy and numeracy and the con-
ia Paula V. Fulgueras, School Principal III of Li-
tinuous professional development of teach-
nasin ES, Ms. Noemi R. Cula, School Principal II The contractual interest rate for
ers in the teaching and learning process. The
of Rabanes ES, and Mrs. Luzviminda R. Aratea, both forms of PF loans shall be 6%
participants in the workshop were composed
School Principal I of Pili ES and District ELLN Fo- per annum, calculated using the de-
of kindergarten teachers, Grade 1 to Grade 3
cal Person effortlessly pulls to managed to host creasing balance method, in which
teachers, Mobile Teachers from the Alterna- the interest per payment period is
a 4-day webinar workshop on crafting formative
tive Learning System, and SPED teachers. determined based on the PF loan’s
assessment tools for ELLN Key Stage 1 with a to-

“
outstanding balance at the begin-
FROM PAGE 3 FFP21-9NPAF ning of each installment period.
One of the teacher coaches at La Paz National High School, Niel R. Fac-
tura, Teacher I, stated that the results were not bad for first-timers. He “I am now very In addition, the repayment period
was overjoyed that their efforts to put their students through practice motivated to help of a provident fund loan can range
had been recognized not only in the province, but also in the national from one to five years, depending
more of my students on the borrower’s ability to pay, and
competition. hone their skills in
“I am now very motivated to help more of my students hone their skills is subject to the net take-home pay
the performing arts. requirement under the Authorized
in the performing arts.” This competition will serve as an inspiration to This competition will Deductions, General Provisions of
all of us, particularly to my beloved students,” Factura added. serve as an inspi- the Annual Generation Appropria-
The FFP21-9NPAF competition and awarding ceremony went off with- ration to all of us, tions Act (GPAGA).
out a hitch; the organizing committee thanked the support of DepEd TV particularly to my
Negros Occidental, DepEd Zamboanga City, Ayala National High School, beloved students,” Interested PF loan applicants must
and the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta as the Web host.
DEPED EASES PAGE 5
Outreach Program benefits
IP learners and families
Michael I. Maya
Teacher III
Amungan National High School
Iba, Zambales
“Happiness doesn’t result from what we get, but

“
5
what we give”
Amungan NHS English,
Mathematics, and TLE Teach-

news
ers together with partners in
There is more happiness in
learning such as the PRMSU,giving. A total of 70 fam-
ilies receiving their food
PNP, LGU, Provincial and packs and grocery items
Municipal Office, Alumni As-
in the Outreach Program
sociation, and other Private
initiated by Amungan NHS
Individuals worked hand in English, Mathematics, and
hand and spearheaded an TLE Teachers together
with partners in learning
Outreach Program at Sitio such as the PRMSU, PNP,
Olpoy, Amungan, Iba, Zam- LGU, Provincial and Mu- VOL X
bales, December 16, 2021, nicipal Office, Alumni As- No. 01
sociation at Sitio Olpoy,
School supplies, slippers, Amungan, Iba, Zambales.
food packs, grocery items, This activity was possible
(lugaw) and soup were also
hand soap, toothbrushes because of the various proj-
shared with all. Learners
and toothpaste, and kilos ects proposed by the teach-
were also monitored in their
of rice were shared with ers. Project SMILE () for En-
reading and numeracy skills FROM PAGE 4 DEPED EASES
the IP (Indigenous People) glish Department, Project fill out a loan application form
as part of the activity. A total
Community. Hot porridge SALAMATH ( Sharing Amun- and return it to the Schools
of 70 families benefited.
genians’ Love and Assistance Division Provident Fund Secre-
from the Mathematicians) tariat. Similarly, the borrower
from Mathematics Depart- and co-maker must provide
ment, project CHAW-FUN ( the following documents: copy
Caring and Helping Amun- of most recent pay slip, photo-
genians Wellness through copy of DepEd ID, and service
record. First-time borrowers
Feeding Under Nourished)
must also submit an approved
for TLE Department, and
appointment.
Project HATAW ( Happy
Hands and Teeth of Amun- Furthermore, applicants for
genians Win). additional loans must also
submit a letter of request, hos-
Food packs, grocery items, and Mrs. Vilma Arfapo and Mr. pitalization and medical ex-
school supplies were packed and Bryan Anonuevo both Social penditures, medical abstract,
ready for distribution Mobilization and Extension certificate, or diagnosis.
Program Coordinators pre-
Particularly, the Provident
pared and coordinated with
Fund was established per
internal and external stake-
DECS Order 97, s. 1992, in ac-
holders to realize this noble cordance with the provisions
mission. of Administrative Order No.
279 to provide DepEd employ-
Barangay Chairman Richard ees with benefits and loans for
Redondo of Amungan to- emergency needs, education,
gether with Mr. Jack Mora, hospitalization and that of
the Chieftain of the IP Com- their immediate dependents,
The IP Community especially the munity were very grateful for minor but urgently needed
house repairs, and other sim-
the help extended for their
children were showing enjoyment in
the game. ilar purposes.
subordinates.
 6 “
news The project implemen-
tation process is aligned
It is an important innovation to develop because it
can benefit not only the family but also the community
with DepEd’s Most Es-
sential Learning Com- even during the rainy sea- Tahanan ng Batang PBES and
petencies (MELCs). son. It is an important in- Floating Garden at Home’.
novation to develop be-
Initiating the project im- cause it can benefit not According to Morados, Guis-
plementation, Schools Di- only the family but also the guis National High School
vision Memorandum No. community,” Sales added. (GNHS) of Sta. Cruz Dis-
VOL X 381, s. 2021 was issued by trict, LAKAS High School
No. 01 SDO Zambales. All EPP/TLE Some of the evident projects (LAKASHS) of Botolan Dis-
District Coordinators, JHS- were named their garden trict, Paite-Balincaguing El-
AFA, AI teachers, and learn- to: ‘PaLutang’ which means ementary School (PBES) of
ers were informed about ‘Pamilyang Lugar ng Tani- San Felipe District, Locloc
the project’s advocacy. mang Gulay; Family Area for National High School (LNHS)
FROM PAGE 2 SDZ IMPLEMENTS Reccreation and Mentoring of Palauig District and San
SDZ’s Floating Platform Gar- (FARM); Family’s Love Of Art Miguel National High School
a significant impact on and Time (FLOAT); ‘Proyek-
den (FPG) project was dis- of San Antonio District have
learning. The effectiveness tong INobatibo na Tutulong
cussed and shared virtually all properly implemented the
of pedagogy is frequently sa Industriya ng Gulayan’
via Google Meet from various project’s advocacy on time.
determined by the subject (PINTIG); and ‘Gulayan sa
matter to be taught as well schools, and the challenge
as an understanding of the of implementing its advoca- FROM PAGE 2 PROGRESSIVE
diverse needs of different cy was accepted by all TVL- Sa kabilang panig naman, isa sa mahigit 60 na mga
learners,” Morados said. ACP NC II strand and some paaralang napuntahan ay ang Anthony A. Guatlo Ele-
elementary public schools. mentary School sa Distrito ng Palauig. Sa pangunguna
“In general, the best teach- nina Dr. Blesilda D. Fontanilla, PSDS at ni Dr. Evelyn D.
ers believe in their students’ One of the project imple- Tarrayo, EPS-Science, nabigyan ng aktuwal na pagka-
ability to learn and employ menters at San Miguel Na- kataong masaksihan ang mga kasalukuyang kaganapan
a variety of pedagogical tional High School (SMNHS), sa naturang paaralan dahil umano sa maagang oras na
approaches to ensure this Josephine N. Sales, Teacher pagdating sa nasabing paaralan.
learning occurs, because it’s III, said that the FPG proj-
really important to sustain ect is an effective and inno- Naging maayos naman ang daloy sapagkat tinututukan
quality education amidst vative strategy to develop. ni Gng. Ann A. Yap, punong-guro ng nasabing paaralan
pandemic and to adapt the ang pagkakaroon ng maayos na pamunuan.
performance task of learn- “[I] think it’s another form
ers during distant learning of urban gardening, which Nagsagawa rin ng classroom observation si Dr. Tar-
modality,” he continued. helps our future agricultur- rayo. Inirekomenda ni Gng Ann A. Yap, Punong-guro
ists to be creative enough ng Anthony Araña Guatlo Elementary School (AAGES)
si Gng. Bernadette C. Malinao para sa Key stage 1 at si
FROM PAGE 3 CHILDREN’S RIGHTS
Gng Liezel L. Cruz naman sa Key Stage 2 para sa asig-
RBE promotes three dimensions: the right to access to educa- naturang Matematika.
tion, the right to quality education, and the right to respect in
the learning environment which includes the right to identity Binigyan ng komendasyon ni Dr. Tarrayo sina Castillo at
and non-discrimination, right to be heard and to participate, Cruz sa pagpapakita nila ng iba’t-ibang stratehiya ng
and the right to protection against all forms of violence and pagtuturo upang maibigay sa mga bata ang pangan-
abuse. gailangan sa pagkatututo. Sinuportahan naman ni
Yap ang mga gurong nagpakitang-turo at hiniling na
Legal Unit, along with the Youth Formation Division strength- ibahagi rin sa ibang mga guro sa pamamagitan ng
ened the establishment of Child Protection Unit (CPU) in all Mentoring.
schools across the province of Zambales and call on all educa-
tion stakeholders as duty-bearers to uphold the rights of every Sa kabilang panig naman, “Dapat maging versatile
child. talaga ang mga guro” , pahayag ni Tarrayo. Nagbigay
siya ng mga kaukulang suhestiyon upang mapagaan
In addition, SDO Zambales successfully conducted an Online ang pagsulat ng Daily Lesson Log, ito’y upang matu-
Training on Child Protection and Cybersafety in Schools to raise lungan ang mga kaguruan na magkaroon ng maayos
awareness and understand the different issues encountered by na plano sa kanilang pagtuturo at maiangat ang antas
children and introduce a cybersafe tool in classroom sessions. ng pagkatuto.
 7

news
DepEd Zambales offers free NQESH review class

“
Don Peter L. Bada
Lerio Rose Q. Hugo
True to its mission to uplift the professional growth and
development of the school heads, the Schools Division of “ This review class is our way of
Zambales conducted its free National Qualifying Examina- expressing our sincere appre-
ciation and gratitude in your
tion for School Heads (NQESH) Review Class at Zambales pivotal roles to help improve
Teachers Training Center June 6-10. the education system and help VOL X
transform students’ lives and No. 01
During her message, Dr. Mi- work in healthy and favorable achievements.”
chelle A. Mejica, Assistant environment, and improves
Schools Division Superinten- efficiency of workers and
dent asked the school head to keeps them content, thereby
get focused with their review contributing to high employ-
class. She also stressed the ee morale.
desire of the top management
for them to be a successful The five-day review covered
educator of the highest cal- conceptual and situational
iber. “This review class is our critical thinking questions rel-
way of expressing our sincere evant to the role of a school
appreciation and gratitude in head aligned with standards
your pivotal roles to help im- set by the Philippine Profes-
prove the education system sional Standards for School ueva, Judy L. Labio, Rizal M. II, Bancal Integrated School, Dr.
and help transform students’ Heads (PPSSH) as stipulated in Andrade, Amena M. Duque, Ronald Ryan L. Sion, Education
lives and achievements.” Me- DO 024 s. 2020 or the Nation- Elvira S. Pantorgo, Anabel S. Program Supervisor; Charlie T.
jica said. al Adoption and Implementa- Simbe, And Melanie Merto. Carreon, Education Program
tion of the Philippine Profes- Supervisor; Dr. Garry M. Ach-
As embodied in Schools sional Standards for School The reviewees were guided acoso, Education Program Su-
Division Human Resource Heads. PPSSH serves as a with the rudiment odf online pervisor; Dr. Manolito B. Basilio,
Management Development mechanism to safeguard and examination and five domains Education Program Supervisor;
(HRMD) Plan Employee’s gauge the competency and under the PPSSH by Engr. Ju- and Marlon Amoroso and John
Welfare to develop employ- quality of the aspiring school velyn M. Bueno, Information El Badar ITO Staff who shall also
ees who are committed, in- leaders in DepEd schools. Technology Officer I; Benedick serve as mentors and reviewers.
novative, competent and N. Damaso, Principal III, Col-
accountable and who con- School-head reviewees were lat Integrated School; Maria MAKING LIFE WORTH LIVING.
tinuously improves to meet Rosita E. Marcellana, Marcelo Consuelo E. Damaso, Princi- Dr. Michelle A. Mejica, Assistant
performance standards across E. Rafanan, Ricky E. Eala, Mar- pal II, Pinagrealan Elementary
Schools Division Superinten-
dent emphasizes the free
access, quality and gover- ilyn M. Baugan, Florence Q. School; Guillermo E. Mantes, National Qualifying Examina-
nance, this review class em- Falsario, Joel A. Alvior , Amor Principal II, Zambales Nation-
tion for School Heads review
class as one of Schools Division
phasizes the agency’s relent- A. Fuentecilla, Sr., Jesus A. al High School; Rachael F. Es- Office efforts to make life
less efforts to make life worth Umipig, Ernesto S. Flordeliz, teban, Principal II, San Agus-
worth living for workmen thus
enables workers to perform
living for workmen thus en- Emylda D. Kumar, Jannette L. tin High School, Marie Flo M. their work in healthy and
ables workers to perform their Cabling, Flor Amor R. Villan- Aysip, Principal
favorable environment, and
improves efficiency of workers
and keeps them content,
thereby contributing to high
employee morale.
 “
The Schools Division
of Zambales used
the allocated budget
to make learning
continue despite the
situation.
FROM PAGE 2 SDO ZAMBALES
allotment.
The Schools Division of
Zambales used the allocat-
ed budget to make learn-
ing continue despite the
situation. The allotment was
basically utilized through
various activities such as the
development and printing of
various learning resources,
procurement of supplemen-
tary learning/reading mate-
rials and some gadgets to
support the implementation
SDO ZAMBALES FSSG ATTENDS PYC 2022 of distance learning modal-
education by spearheading ferent sectors to deliver accu- ities. Downloaded funds
ADORA D. MATIAS
Project Development Officer I conversations about press- rate, responsive, and impact- intended for Multigrade Ed-
Youth Formation Coordinator ing and relevant issues,” ful change, offer meaningful ucation, Indigenous People
Education Chief Leonor opportunities for the youth Education (IPED), Madrasah
The Schools Division Office Magtolis Briones said. to learn about their role in Education Program (MEP),
of Zambales together with PYC 2022 identified solu- nation-building and provide a Special Education Program
other 215 Schools Division tions and relevant opportu- safe space to build a network (SPED), Alternative Learning
Offices from 17 regions set nities to address the needs of like-minded individuals. System (ALS) and School
foot on Puerto Princesa City, of Filipino youth and craft Based Feeding Program
Palawan last June 15-17, the Youth Education Agenda “Aside from imparting knowl- were successfully utilized.
2022 for the conduct of the that will reflect the common edge and wisdom to you, our Various classrooms that need
Philippine Youth Convergence sentiments and outlooks, young learners, the PYC was rehabilitation, improvement
(PYC) 2022 with more than constructive feedback, and also developed to learn from and repairs were undertaken
2,000 youth leaders aiming to policy recommendations of you. The DepEd envisions PYC and completed. Payment of

8
reassess, realign, and refocus students to achieve quality
salaries, mandatory allow-
youth-related initiatives and
PYC 2022 PAGE 9
and inclusive education for ances and other benefits of
be responsive to the needs of all imbued with the DepEd
all teaching and non-teach-
the youth. Core Values of Maka-Diyos, ing personnel were provided
The Division Federated SSG Maka-Tao, Makakalikasan, and funded on time. Fur-
Officers of SDO Zambales and Makabansa. DepEd also thermore, other downloaded
spearheaded by Lyza Joyce claims that PYC 2022 aims funds were utilized based
Artates, Deanne Es R. Ignacio, to collaborate and build a
on the needs of the Schools
Krisvi Cassandra Alviz to- strong network across dif- Division.
gether with Youth Formation
Coordinators Adora D. Matias
Moreover, the Schools Divi-
and John Michael G. Edejer
sion was also responsible in
news

actively participated in the

giving and providing various
three-day activity.
Technical Assistance in the
“We developed the Philippine
utilization of the budget
Youth Convergence to pro-
allocation and downloaded
vide an avenue to our youth
funds to the schools.
for dialogue and revitalize
their participation in achiev-
ing quality and inclusive
Moving forward, looking back a little: SDO conducts GLAK review
Jethro Ray A. Ticong To ensure quality produced
locally developed learning
“
Teacher III
resources in the Schools Di-
vision of Zambales, a 3-day
virtual review of Quarter 2
“Very happy po kami sa
results and feedback, GLAKs (Guided Learning
empowered ang bawat Activity Kits) was conduct-
isa, ang sarap po sa ed pursuant to SDM No. 39,
pakiramdam na meron 2022 or better known as Vir-
akong magagaling na tual Schools Division Review
pool of writers, content of Quarter 2 GLAKs in Aral-
editors, language review- ing Panlipunan, Edukasyon
ers, illustrators, graphic sa Pagpapakatao, Filipino,
artists, and layout English, MAPEH, and MTB-
artists.” MLE on February 9-11 via MS
– Gina R. Borje, Division Teams.
English Coordinator This review and revisit of
the Quarter 2 GLAKs in
SDO-Zambales was in ad-
FROM PAGE 8 PYC 2022 herence to Regional Mem-
to be an avenue for the orandum No. 598, s. 2021
youth in making better “Re-evaluation of Locally De-
policies with regards veloped Learning Resources”
to your education and that aimed to intensify the er-
your involvement in ror watch in the learning re-
public and civic affairs,” sources used for the modular
Assistant Secretary for distance learning.
Youth Affairs and Special
Concerns Juan Valeriano
Respicio IV said. “We Kauna-unahang Multimedia Training ng Edutech
believe that the partici- inilunsad sa SDO Zambales
pation, perspective, and
the voice of the youth Arcangel C. Bueno
are integral in crafting Teacher II
policies, projects, and Lipay National High School
programs that will truly
Isinagawa sa kauna-unahang
reflect their hopes and pagkakataon ang train-
address their needs,” ing-workshop sa paggamit ng
Asec. Respicio added.
9
Adobe Software at iba pang
multimedia tools sa ilalim ng
ICTS-Educational Technology
news
Unit ng Kagawaran ng Edu-
kasyon sa Botolan, Zambales
na nagsimula nitong April 26
at nagtapos ng April 30.
Pinangunahan ni Mark Antho-
ny Sy, pinuno ng EduTech Unit
kasama ang labingtatlo pang
miyembro ng kaniyang multi-
VOL X media team ang pagsasagawa
No. 01 ng training-workshop para sa
walumpung gurong pinili at
bubuo sa Multimedia Team ng
SDO Zambales.
“Mahusay na pagkakagawa
at pagkakasulat ng ating mga
writers sa SDO-Zambales,
ngunit mas mainam na maba-
likan at mas mapagtuunan pa
ng pansin yung mga maliliit
na mga detalye ng ating GLAK
tulad ng punctuation marks at
iba pa.” – Garry Achacoso EdD
EPS-LRMDS said during the
opening program.
After the general ori-
entation, Education Program
Supervisors in-charge of dif-
ferent learning areas created
sub-groups from Elementary
to Senior High School, and
assigned a leader who would
serve as the language edi-
tor/ reviewer, and another
documenter for the over-all
consolidation of Summary of
Findings.
Prior to the eval-
uation process, leaders per
sub-group were tasked to
create an online platform link
Samantala, hinikayat naman ni Sy
na gamitin ang mga libreng Adobe
licenses para sa pagrerenew nito mat-
apos itong ma-expire.
Ayon sakanya, magig-
ing batayan sa muling
pagbibigay ng libreng
lisensiya ang palagiang
paggamit ng Adobe
software sa personal o
propesyonal na aspekto.
Inaasahan naman ng
EduTech Unit ng DepEd
na maging kapaki-pak-
inabang sa mga gurong
kalahok ang limang araw
na palihan at magamit at
maibahagi ang mga na-
tutuhan sa iba pang mga
gurong Zambaleño.
that served as their avenue
to facilitate the presentation
of GLAK writers while be-
ing documented and closely
monitored by the EPS in-
charge for three days.
“Very happy po kami
sa results and feedback, em-
powered ang bawat isa, ang
sarap po sa pakiramdam na
meron akong magagaling na
pool of writers, content edi-
tors, language reviewers, il-
lustrators, graphic artists, and
layout artists.” – Gina R. Borje,
Division English Coordinator
said during the closing pro-
gram of the 3-day review of
Quarter 2 GLAKs.
Indeed, all the locally
produced learning materials
in different subject areas were
keenly evaluated and passed
the systematic standards of
the SDO Quality Assurance
Team.
MASUSING IDENIDETALYE ni
Mark Anthony Sy, Head ng Edtech Unit
ang kanilang layunin na abutin at turuan
ang bawat dibisyon at rehiyon sa buong
Pilipinas upang matuto ng mga trends at
innovations na magagamit sa pagtuturo
para sa mabisang pagkatuto ng mga
mag-aaral.
Photo by: Lucky Ann D. Pasobello, MT-1
 editorial
From Unsung Heroes to Declared Victors
Jessica Jesusa Español Nequinto
opinion
10
VOL X
No. 01
themselves as the division’s leading edges to monitor the employees and
learners’ condition, and assure that everyone complies with the health
guidelines and protocol. Personnel on Human Resource and Clerical-Re-
lated Groups keep abreast on maintaining, securing and coordinating
records and data for reports. Utility Personnel serves as the forefront
to assure the cleanliness and sanitization of the school, equipment and
properties, and learning materials. And the valiant security personnel
assures the peace and safe keeping of the school. Notwithstanding the
skeletal work arrangement of the general body of the schools division,
most of our unsung heroes risk their lives without fear and retaliation
by going out to school and other offices just to accomplish the needed
transactions for the school’s program, projects, improvement and un-
ceasing performance. The menace of potential exposure is greatly pos-
sible to happen. But in fulfillment of their oath-taken jobs, it is their
silent sacrifices which contribute to our journey to wrestle this horrible
situation worthwhile.
For a long time, lights are now burning to finally see our sur-
rounding that we have other heroes existing in the silent corners of
school office buildings. Visualize that in every learning module, there’s
a touch of committed non-teaching personnel who lent his time be-
yond his duty and core responsibility to reproduce, bind and distribute
modules regardless of the anxiety and stress they face, too, during this
time. Imagine also that in every health kit, learning tokens and simple
U nknown to many, the DepEd Zambales, even before the burst
of pandemic, has already battling with the formidable chal-
lenges in the delivery of quality education. These daunting
trials have been supported by the undeniably courageous and diligent
people of the division – the Non-Teaching Personnel.
In scenarios like achievement of exemplary rate of literacy and
promotion, and completion of students’ educational requirements, com-
mendations and applause are automatically recognized to the faculty
alone by the parents and community. So when shocks and aftershocks of
pandemic hit Zambales, it paved a way to appreciate the silent efforts of
all school educators and professionals including the non-teaching staff.
Attributable to the restructured organizational work pattern, the bright
stories of tears and efforts by these unsung heroes are finally
Adoption of flexible rearranged work practices such as tele-
communication and other alternative workspaces were implemented
in pursuit of continuous conveyance of basic education and services
for teachers and learners. Being the backbone of the schools division,
non-teaching personnel maintains the interlinkages open despite the
threat of the invisible enemy. Supervisors continue to steer the order-
liness, compliance and smooth sail of school operations, as well as the
behavior and mental well-being of the employees. Finance and Supply
teams, on the other hand, continue to function especially the funding
supplementations and disbursements for school operations and em-
“
ployees’ compensation. Moreover, the Health Services selflessly devoted
“Public service must be more than do-
ing a job efficiently and with honesty.
It must be a complete dedication to the
people and to the nation”
assistance these people gave, a piece of every education-support teams,
health services and supervisors was also draped there. Their thoughts
and courageous acts are wrapped in each piece of any kind that make
the schools and education run – all for the public service, all for the
bright future of learners.
Margaret Chase Smith, one of the world’s promising pub-
lic servant, once said, “Public service must be more than doing a job
efficiently and with honesty. It must be a complete dedication to the
people and to the nation”. Truly, the dedication of the DepEd Zambales
Non-Teaching Personnel, especially in the midst of COVID-19, is beyond
compare. With these people, the coping and resilience are fondled as the
doors of schools are slowly opening once again to welcome our future
leaders – the pupils and students. The songs of their notable acts are
now finally being heard. What happened during the pandemic launched
for the song of appreciation for the non-teaching staff’s meritorious ac-
complishment. It is only fair to give these unsung heroes the clap they
deserved for the long time and dedication they served.
Shall the sun set in each day, it is lovely to claim that non-teach-
ing personnel are heroes, too. Heroes who are unsung no more. Be
proud, you’re a non-teaching employee of DepEd Zambales. Be proud,
simply because you are a hero.
Out of love for the learners: The birth of academic ease
to create depth focused on dif-

opinion
clear lens ficulty, which ended up doing

11
nothing more than make life
Ricky Torres Lansang harder for students.
Teacher III
A 2021 study from Subic Nation-

“
Subic National High School

Teachers all around the world prepared we were for distance

had a hard time adjusting to the
conditions of the pandemic, as
our instructional methods had
to change drastically to meet the
demands of online learning. As
critics of academic easing raise
claims that it only coddles the
students, we must remember an
important lesson from the pan-
demic: depth does not mean
difficulty.
As soon as distance learning
started in 2020, there were
immediate calls for academic
easing. They urged educators
to lessen requirements and be
more considerate to students.
At the time, the conditions were
tough, as many areas were still
under severe quarantine mea-
sures. Many were also out of
work, and so students and teach-
ers alike were struggling to meet
the demands of the new system.
This, combined with how un-
learning, made academic easing
an easy choice.
Still, educators and administra-
tors criticized these calls. They
said that it was impossible to
meet these demands without
sacrificing the quality of educa-
tion. They dismissed the propos-
als of academic easing, saying
that the proponents only want-
ed to coddle the children. They
held onto their requirements,
and in so doing believed that
they were helping their students
to learn more.
We now know that this was not
the case.
Instead of helping, many stu-
dents complained that the re-
quirements only made them
more stressed. Instead of help-
ing them learn, they started do-
ing the activities for the sake of
submitting them. The attempts
When depth is
equated to difficulty,
it ends in disaster.
Ending academic
easing is not the
solution to our ed- VOL X
ucation woes; it will No. 01
only make them ever
worse.
al High School, for example,
asked STEM students for their
teach more by piling on activi-
opinions on their core subject ties; we only make it harder for
modules. These students said
students. This is especially true
that although the modules in the present context, where
were above average in terms
everyone is still struggling from
of the discussion portions, they the pandemic. We must find
were much too difficult and
more efficient and effective ways
asked far too much from the of teaching instead of blinding
students. Their main recom-
adding to the workload.
mendation was to reduce the
number of tasks and instead
When depth is equated to diffi-
spend more time on high-yield culty, it ends in disaster. Ending
activities.
academic easing is not the solu-
tion to our education woes; it will
This must be a lesson for us only make them ever worse.
moving forward. We do not

Sa ngalan ng sinumpaang tungkulin

Napakasarap sa pakiramdam ang maging isang guro kahit na
sa totoo lang maraming hamon na kinakaharap, kinakaya pa rin. Determinado’t
punong-puno ng dedikasyon at malasakit sa mga mag-aaral na ma-
Rommel Reyes Quinsay sayang niyakap ang propesyon ng maraming taon. Ang paaralan ang
Teacher III nagsisilbing pangalawang tahanan at naging saksi sa masigasig na
Pamatawan Integrated School
pagtuturo.

Sa paglipas ng pana-
hon iba’t ibang pagsubok ang
kinakaharap dala ng pagbaba-
go sa larangan ng pagtuturo at
edukasyon. Mula sa mga simple
at tradisyunal na pagtuturo sa si-
lid-aralan, mas naging kumplika-
do sapagkat pumasok ang iba’t
ibang istratehiya, inobasyon,
integrasyon, maging ang pag-
gamit ng iba’t ibang teknolohi-
ya. Ngunit ito’y napagtagump-
ayan sapagkat ang mga guro ay
laging positibo at kinakaya lahat
ang gawaing iniatas sa kanya.
Ngayong panahon ng pande-
mya, panibagong hamon na
naman ang nakaatang na ha-
harapin ng mga guro. Laban na
hindi lamang isasaalang-alang
ang sariling kapakanan ngunit
higit ang kalusugan ng mga
mag-aaral.
Sa krisis na kinakaharap
natin ngayon, buong pusong
haharapin ang nakaambang
hamon sa pagtuturo. Ngayong
new normal, titindig at mag-
bibigay pag-asa sa mga kabata-
an at maghahatid ng de-kalidad
at ligtas na edukasyon sa likod
ng agam-agam at takot. Alam
kong ito’y hindi magiging madali
ngunit kung may pagtutulungan
at pagkakaisa sa isang adhikain,
hindi malabong mangyari na ang
inaasam na magandang bukas
para sabata at para sa bayan ay
makakamit sa gitna man ng pan-
demyang Covid-19.
opinion
12
VOL X
No. 01
With the apparent decline in
the number of COVID-19 cas-
es in the past two weeks af-
ter the surge brought about
by the Omicron variant, it is
wise to start acting up again
on the educational proposals
brought by DepEd. This does
not mean that we are to over-
look the COVID scare and the
unpredictability of the virus,
rather this means that we are
to rise above the challenge
and not succumb to the claw
of a defeatist mindset.
February of this year marks
the relaunch of the halted
face-to-face implementation
classes during this pandemic.
This is confirmed by Acting
Presidential Spokesperson
Karlo Nograles, pointing out
that 309 public schools in Alert
Level 2 areas are visioned to
resume classes soon. In Metro
Manila, 118 schools are eyed
to spearhead the challenge,
in Cagayan Valley, 12 schools;
in Central Luzon, 106; in Cala-
barzon Region, 57; and in East-
ern Visayas, 16. This much of
schools proposed are going to
start classes in different days
depending on their regional
situations, but all within this
month. Some may argue that
it is too soon to relaunch as
many schools after the highest
number of positive cases test-
introspection
Over being a defeatist
ed happened on January 16,
with 36,983 among the many
tested turning out to be pos-
itive of the virus, but it is also
apparent in the proceeding
days that this number along
with the positivity rate has de-
creased up till 6,835 cases this
February 7 (two days before
the earliest date among the
proposed resume of face-to-
face classes).
Moreover, the selected
schools were chosen via the
School Safety Assessment
Tool (SSAT) which shows the
administrative effort of DepEd
in a careful yet proactive ap-
proach to the problem. In ad-
Wilbert O. Minola
Head Teacher III
San Antonio National High School
“ Most importantly, we
dition, local health and local
municipal approvals concur-
rences were also sought for
each school endorsed. Lastly,
not only the external matters
of each school were identified,
the internal capacity of each
school to provide and conduct
teaching were also considered.
Corollary to this, only vaccinat-
ed teaching and non-teaching
personnel are allowed to par-
ticipate in the resume of the
classes. This amount of height-
ened security and level of intri-
cateness should be seen as af-
firmative efforts and be a point
wherein people may be able to
rest assured. In fact, in the pre-
vious spree of the face-to-face
have to be reminded
that our country has
started the imple-
mentation of face-
to-face classes last
among many other
third-world countries
and that our current
educational report
according to many
world institutions, like
World Bank, is below
minimum proficiency.
classes from November 15 to
December 22, no student was
exposed to the virus and there
was a high-level of attendance
among the students (averag-
ing up to 83%).
Most importantly, we have to
be reminded that our country
has started the implementa-
tion of face-to-face classes last
among many other third-world
countries and that our current
educational report according
to many world institutions, like
World Bank, is below minimum
proficiency. DepEd Undersec-
retary Nepomuceno Malaluan
even mentions this as a chal-
lenge to be faced. Now that
this reality compounds to the
challenge of teaching in a pan-
demic, there really should be
no space in our mindsets to be
defeatist in face of the virus.
Now that this phase is about
to start, it is time we support
the campaign. We should be-
gin again, keep the momen-
tum and stop dilly-dallying. It
is important to remember: fear
thrives among the scared.

Pairalin ang Pagtutulungan
bayan ni juan
Jane M. Montalla
Principal II
Nagsimula sa isang karatula na nagsasabing “magbigay tumulong ka ng bukal sa
ayon sa kakayahan, kumuha batay sa pangangailangan” kalooban at makiisa sa
hanggang sa sumikat sa ibat-ibang panig ng bansa ang bayanihan para sa bayan
pagbabayanihan.
Likas naman sa Pinoy ang
pagiging matulungin, mag-
ing kahit anong hamon
kayang harapin. Nang
maranasan ng madla ang
delubyong hindi nakikita
ngunit damang-dama ay
nalugmok nang husto sa
pinansyal na pangangail-
angan ang maraming tao.
Kaliwat-kanang hinaing
ang maririning. Talamak
ang nangyaring pagkagu-
tom resulta ng pagkawala
ng trabaho at serbisyo.Lit-
eral na tumigil ang mundo
sa ilan sapagkat ang bawat
butil ng bigas na kanilang
ihahain sa hapag ay hindi
nila alam kung saan maha-
hagilap.
Ilang buwan ding su-
mailalim ang bansa sa Lock-
down upang kahit paano
ay mapigilan ang paglobo
ng kaso ng COVID-19. Sa
patuloy na pakikibaka sa
virus na di nakikita ay lumi-
“
opinion
13
Tayo man ay nasa gitna
ng pandemya,hindi pa
rin talaga mawawala ang
pagkakaisa at pagtutu-
lungan, dahil si Juan dela
Cruz kahit kailan ay hindi
nagdamot kaya kung
kaisa sa layuning ito ,
VOL X
ni Juan. No. 01
kumukuha ng higit sa pan-
gangailangan kaya ang
mga talagang dapat na
makinabang ay nauubusan.
Sa kabila ng pagtutulungan
ay hindi naalis ang kontrob- ang pagtutulungan.
ersiya ,na ang pagkakaroon
ng Community Pantry ay “Noong sumikat yan at
nagtuturo lamang na mag- naipalabas sa TV tapos
ing tamad lalo ang mga nagkaroon din dito sa old
Pilipino sa paghahanap ng plaza mga teen ager pa
trabaho. ‘yung mga namimigay at
nagbabantay pumila ako
Hindi naman masama ang agad kasi malaking mal-
tumulong at magbigay ng aking tulong sa amin ang
tulong, ang masama ay ang makatanggap ng ganoo-
taw ang bayanihang nagpa-
sinasamantala ang pagtu- ng klase ng Ayuda lalo ka-
kita ng pagmamalasakit ka-
long at pagkakawang gawa. ming mag-asawa walang
hit pa hindi magkakadugo
ang bawat isa. Nagsimula pagkukunan ng pera” ani Fe
Nakalulungkot lamang Menes,residente ng Brgy.
ang community pantry sa
isipin na sa kabila ng ma- Guisguis.
Quezon City na nagbukas
gandang layunin ng pag-
sa mata ng marami na sa
babayanihan ay kaakibat “Masaya sa pakiramdam na
kabila ng delubyong ito ay
pa rin nito ang pagnana- kahit hindi gaanong mara-
lulutang pa rin ang kabaitan
sang makalamang. Hindi mi at simple lang ang laman
at pagmamalasakit sa bawat
pa rin naalis ang pagig- ng aming Pantry ay marami
Pilipino.
ing makasarili,na kahit pa kaming natulungan” saad
sa panahon ng pandemya ni Mia Pearl Militar isa sa
Maraming pamilya ang
kung saan ang lahat ay mga namuno sa Communi-
nakinabang ,natulungan,-
apektado ay nagagawa pa ty Pantry sa Brgy. Guisguis
natustusan ang pangan-
rin nating manloko. Old Plaza.
gailangan,naitawid ang
gutom ,napawi ang uhaw
Ayon pa kay Senator Grace Tayo man ay nasa gitna ng
at nabigyan ng pag-asa sa
Poe naging wake up call pandemya,hindi pa rin ta-
pamamagitan ng Commu-
ang Community Pantry sa laga mawawala ang pag-
nity Pantry. Sa pagsikat ng
kakulangan ng Gobyerno,- kakaisa at pagtutulungan,
bayanihang ito sumunod na
na dinagdagan pa ni Sen- dahil si Juan dela Cruz kahit
ang ibang “pakulo” ng ibat-
ator Lacson sa kaniyang kailan ay hindi nagdamot
ibang tao lalo na ang mga
paglalarawan na “despera- kaya kung kaisa sa layuning
artista upang makatulong
do na ang taumbayan” . ito , tumulong ka ng bukal
sa panahon ng Pandemya.
Mayroon mang nagla- sa kalooban at makiisa sa
basang kontrobersiya ay bayanihan para sa bayan ni
Sa kabila ng pagbabayani-
hindi pa rin naman natinag Juan.
han ay hindi maiiwasan
ang mamamayan sa kanil-
ang manlamang, mayroong
 On requiring vaccination for DepEd teachers
viewpoints
Anne Kaye Pulido – Martinez
Teacher III
Candelaria School of Fisheries
vider, will not end at our own
comforts. As an educator, we
took an oath to protect this
nation in which we can par-
take in ensuring that the gov-
ernment policies to safeguard
the mere sanctity of our ex-
“ If we want to really
live freely and to enjoy
what we have enjoyed
years before, then it’s
time to act.
It was mid-2021 when Department of Education issued DM istence be followed. It is why normal trend, we must bear
028, s. 2021 stating that all implementing agencies, regional and we wear our uniforms, and it is in mind that education should
local task force, and vaccination operations centers (VOC) are the reason why we are keep- surpass and succeed before all
mandated to adopt and implement the IATF recommendation ing our license. these.
to have everyone, teaching and non-teaching, be vaccinated in As of this time there still a In Zambales alone, the cas-
response to the call for national immunity to COVID-19. number of unvaccinated em- es of COVID-19 infection are
ployees in the schools division gradually decreasing as evi-
Teachers and non-teaching our commitment when we and this could hinder the di- dent to the report given to us
who are working hand in hand took an oath to become this vision to move forward with by the provincial government.
to serve our learners are then nation’s educator, it is our the gradual opening of class- Moreover, the permission
considered and identified as prime responsibility to adhere es, although some schools are granted to us by this province
frontline personnel thereby to this call. Yet even when a already piloting in welcoming to hold limited face-to-face
given us priority in the list to lot of department orders and back the learners. A delay in classes is an indicator that we
be vaccinated. It is because memoranda were issued, and the opening of the limited are winning this war of getting
this nation deemed it neces- despite of giving us options face to face classes could also back our learners to school.
sary to still educate the youth, on vaccines branding, there be considered as delay in re- The sad part is, there are still
in spite and despite of this are still employees who aren’t alizing this country’s goal of some, among us who can’t fol-
hurdle. As Sec. Bri- obeying this call. As if health is herd immunity. low. And as the consequence
ones once said, “Ed- not their prime wealth. While the rest of the world and
opinion

to their actions, some col-

ucation must contin- It must be understood that the entirety of the Philippines

14
leagues, school officials and
ue”. our responsibility being a part seemingly live under the new schools are hand-tied in im-
And so, as part of of the education service pro-
ON REQUIRING PAGE 15

For the love of youth and country

Ricky Torres Lansang
fer. Because of this, they fought
Distance learning was tough for everyone involved. Administrators,
through the tiredness and stress
teachers, and students alike faced a lot of difficulties along the way.
to deliver quality learning.
But as face-to-face classes kick off in many parts of the country, it is
time to look back and recall how we responded to this new system.
“Of course, we had a lot of prob-
It may not have been perfect, but we did our best to bridge the gap.
lems as well. But I guess that is
VOL X natural. As they always say, no
No. 01 gled to learn new platforms and one is perfect.”
“You can’t really expect us to
methods. They looked for ideas
get things perfect right out of
everywhere. They listened to the He recalled how they struggled
the gate,” said Mr. L, a teacher
Department of Education, asked to design the first modules and
who preferred not to be named.

“
The COVID-19 was a huge
crisis, and distance learn-
ing demanded a lot from
us. We are here, tired of
almost two years without
face-to-face classes. Yet
also, we are here, and we
have done the best we can
to bridge the gap.
for help from their colleagues, a lot of the processes were not
He recalled the start of the
and some even attended online yet ironed out. Obviously, he
pandemic, and how everyone
courses to get a better under- said, everyone was still adjust-
was scrambling to make things
standing of distance teaching. ing to pandemic life, but they all
work.
knew that they had to be quick.
“Ang hirap ng adjustment. But
Teachers, he said, were thinking
we managed, because we knew “The worst thing about it was
of all kinds of ways to teach their
it was it is for the kids.” the COVID scare. Ang dami
students despite the pandemic.
The older teachers – naturally kong kakilala na nagka-COVID.
They understood that if they Nakakatakot yun.”
not as tech-savvy as new ones –
failed to teach well, the stu-
were the worst off as they strug-
dents would be the ones to suf- Several teachers from the di-
FOR THE LOVE PAGE 15
 opinion
FROM PAGE 14 ON REQUIRING
plementing this policy. responsibility to commit our- it is but liberating to ensure

If we want to really live free-
ly and to enjoy what we have
enjoyed years before, then it’s
time to act. True enough, it is
the employees’ prerogative
if they want to be vaccinated
or not, yet we also must bear
in mind that before freedom,
there lies responsibility, our
selves in DepEd’s mandate to
deliver quality and liberating
education. Our responsibility
to commit in truth, that as ed-
ucators, we must be the role
model to believe consistently
to our government and our
responsibility to health and
safety, that as a social being,
15
health and safety of our learn-
ers, the work force, and the
community.
We dare to act now, or that
time will never come. As the
saying that goes “the best time
to plant trees was 20 years
ago and the second-best time
to plant is NOW’.

IN THE WAR CALLED WORK-FROM-HOME

straightforward With high hopes in
Jessica Jesusa Español Nequinto
Administrative Officer II
Candelaria School of Fisheries
COVID-19’s global outbreak has crossed
the peaceful and beautiful geographical
territory of Zambales and made serious
impact to its educational sector. The threat
of the phenomenal virus caused series of
transformations in the different sectors of
social, labor, economic life and education.
Not only did it bring temporary closure of
schools for teachers and learners but be-
stowed tremendous challenges especially
to the educators and education-support
groups. For almost two years, the Schools
Division of Zambales had put strategies like
work-from-home scheme to control the
transmission of the disease.
Consequently, education profes-
sionals were sent to face a silent fight in
the battlefield towards new circumstances
with a few difficulties and stress – they call
it, work-from-home. It’s like going out for
war in a frantic and abrupt way for the sake
of winning the education against the odds
of pandemic. This might also be compared
to a paradigm shift from the comfort of
physically working together into online and
isolated workspaces in the corners of em-
ployees’ houses.
Work-from-home is a fight with
exceptional changes and unprecedented
encounters. Somehow, it may favor the
general at the beginning. Nonetheless, it
becomes chaos as it will eat up time, per-
sonal space and leaves the person techni-
cally starved being away from the super-
visors. This battle revolves in the vision of
successful projects and continuous op-
“
every DepEd Zam-
bales staff, soon all
school gates will be
totally unlocked.
erations of the schools division regardless of
the barriers of distant working. Although this
emergency initiative of the government has
promoted work flexibility, less absenteeism,
work autonomy, it still has cons which makes
this battle seem difficult to conquest. Employ-
ees are like soldiers being counterattacked
with internet connection problems, physical
inactivity, and stress from technological de-
pendency and invasion to their personal life.
These are just some of the problems which add
to the weight that every employee is carrying
out in undertaking their tasks. Moreover, more
of the employees are either parents or some-
body who co-live with their families. This also
adds to the pressure of completing their as-
signments done on time when personal issues
and domestic distractions break in. Focus and
solitude workplace, which evidently an effec-
tive component to a good actual outcome, is
very difficult to attain in case you are a parent
who from time-to-time has to attend to your
family needs when working at home, neither if
you are at home taking care of your old folks
and at the same time you have to be inten-
sively focused on your report. And that silent
fight became a big question for each employ-
ee’s emotional state, mental well-being and
productivity. By that time, stress and demo-
tivation started to darken the cloud of hope
and positive work culture. Employees’ anxiety
slowly began to ruffle due to change in work
condition and adjustments. Indeed, it’s a silent
fight for almost of the personnel that needs at
least a tap of hope and encouragement.
And so before energy will be drained
for this long silent combat, God has finally un-
IN THE WAR PAGE 16
VOL X
No. 01
FROM PAGE 14 FOR THE LOVE
vision were quarantined because
of COVID-19, exposed because of
their jobs. It was a difficult time for
everyone, and every teacher was
afraid that they brought it home
to their families. Still, the teaching
force made it through.
“Despite all of these hiccups, here
we are, better and stronger than
ever.”
More than two years after the first
community quarantines started,
schools are opening and kids are
coming back to the classroom.
While it was a hard time, one can-
not erase the massive effort that
teachers exerted to teach stu-
dents despite the circumstances.
It seemed like an impossible task,
but in the end, we can once again
say that anything is possible when
we are dedicated to our craft.
The COVID-19 was a huge crisis,
and distance learning demanded a
lot from us. We are here, tired of
almost two years without face-to-
face classes. Yet also, we are here,
and we have done the best we can
to bridge the gap.
Now, as progressive face-to-face
classes commence, we face new
daunting challenges. But just like
distance learning, we know that
we will be triumphant here as well.
opinion

16
FROM PAGE 15 IN THE WAR
raveled the curtain – a sign that
the war will soon end. The light
of going back to normal work
arrangement will be set again.
As the level of risk continues to
drop, the warriors of education
of Zambales are beginning to
raise the flag of triumph. As of
now, 80% are allowed to work
on site, four times a week. Early
VOL X as may claim, but with convic-
No. 01 tion, they will get there. With
high hopes in every DepEd
Zambales staff, soon all school
gates will be totally unlocked.
Lights in every school buildings
will be lit again. How sweet will
it be to hear once again the
taps of fingers in every key-
board as everybody is drooled
in preparing their tasks in the
fulfillment of their promised
excellent public service. The
sweet sound of laughter, small-
talks and physical bonds will
live throughout the schools
division. Job satisfaction and
motivation will momentarily
increase once again.
May all continue to
pray more and wrestle hard-
er so the day will once more
arrive that this silent fight we
now have, be declared forev-
er silent and done.

Despite the invisible enemy

“
Anne Kaye Pulido – Martinez
“Education must continue.” This is the famous line of Sec. Leonor M. Briones upon which the
But then, we faced DepEd is still carrying out, in the service of the Filipino youth. And although it may seem that
the grandest and the it is impossible for education to really continue, educators have devised so many strategies to
worst challenge there bring this battle cry into reality.
is- COVID-19!
I remember the old days when
teachers will have to dress up
We got frightened.
We got confused. We and be our best selves be-
cause we will have to face our
were at a loss. Not audience- the students: teach-
knowing how we can ing them of the wonders and
survive, or will we miracles of this life, from the
ever survive? first bud blossoming from the
plant to the mythical creatures they can just imagine in their
minds. Yes, we had our time. We went to a binge and taught
them not only lessons coming from the books but wisdom of
daily living. It was indeed glorious for teachers to express them-
selves within the four-walls of the classrooms. And although, we
are oftentimes heard saying that we are fed-up of the way we
are being treated, we still moved forward and greeted each day
with the best that we can be.

But then, we faced the grandest and the worst challenge there
is- COVID-19!

We got frightened. We got confused. We were at a loss. Not

knowing how we can survive, or will we ever survive?
We were flagged with questions of how it will be for education
to continue, as we know that education can make or break a
nation.
And that was the time when we heard it. “Education must con-
tinue”! It should continue for the benefit of today’s children.
It is a known fact that the world evolves and that we must be
able to cope with the fast-changing world. Hence, different
modalities of learning were encapsulated and implemented to
better serve our clients. We utilized blended learning, adopted
home schooling for modular approach and even involved ICT
platforms, all for the attainment of our main goal-to educate
our learners.
Schools and school personnel had been resourceful and im-
bibed the new normal trend of teaching. Indeed, rising above
this challenge made us a strong believer that if we are passion-
ate to attaining our goal, then the impossible becomes possible.
Years ago, when we always hear that educators are the unsung
heroes of the world, yet some people are always seemingly ask-
ing for some sort of validation. In this era where we are consid-
ered David facing a Goliath called COVID, educators are moved
to act with such vigor and zeal so that we will be victorious.
DESPITE PAGE 17

On the importance of upskilling
and reskilling of teachers
our two cents
Vilma M. Arfapo
Master Teacher I
Amungan National High School
“A good teacher is similar to a good investment as it
gives us the right seed to sow, and it gives us ample
opportunity to grow”.
Indeed, this line bespeaks
of giving more opportu-
nities in upskilling and re-
skilling of teachers which is
an important avenue to de-
velop more equipped and
highly proficient teachers.
This method of improv-
ing our heroes in the field
of teaching and learning
is given emphasis by the
Department of Education
despite the health crisis we
are facing brought about
by the pandemic.
We teachers are being mo-
tivated and encouraged to
actively participate in vari-
ous webinars (seminars on
websites) and trainings to
enhance and deepen our
knowledge in escalating
our knowledge and
skills to be more
competent
teach-
ers. We learn to maximize
the use of our cellphones,
laptops and other gadgets
and we learned to connect
to professional links to
continue learning.
From the usual face-to-
face trainings held in
schools, hotels,resorts,
and other areas with ideal
ambiance turned into the
virtual platform where we
learn to manipulate MS
Teams and GoogleMeet.
We learned to open
our cameras and
audio when we
share ideas,
write
“
As the teachers im-
proved, they can also
improve student lives
in myriad ways. They
improve teaching
methods and tech-
niques that will help
learning outcomes of
the learners.
comments and sugges-
tions in the chat box, share
various emoticons, voting
pools, fill in the attendance
and send required outputs
in links and many more.
Despite the chal-
lenge of pandemic time,
teachers are brave enough
to embrace the technology
resulting to a more chanc-
es of improving their craft
as teachers. As the De-
partment of Education in-
vest on teachers upskilling
and reskilling, we are like
chosen seeds to sow, we
also have more chances to
grow professionally. Thus,
we can prepare our learn-
ers holistically developed
ready to face the world.
As the teachers
improved, they can also
improve student lives in
myriad ways. They improve
teaching methods and
techniques that will help
learning outcomes of the
learners. We prepare the
youngsters to be ready in
facing their future equip-
ping them with vast of
knowledge, right attitude,
and life-skills that they can
use as they get into the real
world.
opinion
17
VOL X
No. 01
FROM PAGE 16 DESPITE
These days, we teachers
wear not only our uniforms
but our spirit believing that
nothing is impossible if we
only envision the limitless
possibilities of growing
and learning. We are not
confined anymore to our
four walled classroom, but
we have learned that we
have a great stage called
the world. Nowadays, we
not only teach from books
and wisdom from experi-
ences, but we teach them
to hope for better days and
we live as an inspiration
that life should be looked
forward. We may not be
able to hold them physical-
ly, but we hold the world’s
most precious gems-the
future and our learners.
It is said that heroes are
made not when the con-
dition is good and smooth
but when impossibilities
of action are evident. True
enough, we succeeded
in heeding our battle cry.
Education has continued,
proving that whatever
comes our way, we, teach-
ers, are the warriors of the
future.
features
18 VOL X
No. 01
PROJECT RICH:
A HELPING HAND AMIDST PANDEMIC
A
mungan National High
School Supreme Stu-
dent Government
Officers, teachers,
students and other stakehold-
ers launched one of its com-
munity linkage projects - the
PROJECT RICH: “Reaching In-
dividuals through Community
Engagement with a Heart. A
Community Pantry vis-à-vis
Share a Meal Program”.
Today, I began to reminisce
how the COVID-19 affect all
our economic, livelihood,
public health, community and
specially education. As time
goes by, thanks to all front-
liners who helped us make
through the times of pandem-
ic, we can now enjoy a much
better and safer environment
because of the nationwide ba-
kunahan, but not as the way
Carren A. Yarcia - Teacher III
Amungan National High School
before. It was on December
2021, the new set of Amun-
gan National High School
SSG Officers and advisers (my
Co-Adviser and me, Mr. Bryan
Aňonuevo) is making a differ-
ence for our school.
Just like we are coping with
the New Normal System, we
are now showing progress
and becoming more active in
some of our activities.
Project RICH aimed to estab-
lish Public-Private Partner-
ships and community linkages
of the school, to contribute
and give hope to the positive
well-being of the communi-
ty in the midst of Pandemic.
Our goal is to Adopt-a-School
Program, to establish partner-
ships and create a culture of
positive coordination between
the school and its stakehold-
ers and other private individ-
uals in support to the school’s
programs, projects and activ-
ities. According to Chambers
(2015), the schools play a key
role in a virtuous cycle for
communities. Schools serve
as a development agent
for the community. The
Project RICH was com-
posed of three activities
which were conducted
for two different dates.
The first activity was the
online selling of pre-
loved clothes which be-
gan on November 26,
2021 via Facebook Live
that were donated by
our students specifically
Grade 11 SHS students,
also parents, teachers
and other private indi-
viduals through the ef-
 forts of the SSG Officers with
Ms. Carren A. Yarcia as the
adviser, as well as Mr. Bry-
an Añonuevo and Ms. Edna
Padre as another supporter
of the project. The aim of
the activity was to generate
funds for the other activities
of the project like Communi-
ty Pantry and Share-a-Meal.
On December 3, 2021 at 9:00
am, the opening program
was conducted at the Amun-
gan National High School
Covered Court. Project RICH
was launched to promote
the essence of “bayanihan”
and contribute to the posi-
tive well-being of the com-
munity amidst the pandemic.
After the opening program,
the community pantry and
share-a-meal activities com-
menced with the collabo-
rative efforts of the ANHS
Teachers/Staff and the Su-
preme Student Government.
The beneficiaries of the
project were given a pack
of grocery items like canned
goods, sugar, soy sauce, vin-
The Birth of Project MERIT
A product of strengthening partnership
with stakeholders
W
ith the aim of con-
tinuous improve-
ment of literacy and
numeracy skills of the student
populace of Amungan Na-
tional High School, the En-
glish and Mathematics teach-
ers joined hand- in- hand
with its learning partners
from the College of Teacher
“
Education (CTE) of Philippine
This project addresses the problems on
numeracy and reading difficulties of
Junior and Senior high school students.
egar, noodles, rice, and vege-
tables like sari, eggplant, upo
and kamote root crop after
having a meal in the feeding
program. The project benefi-
ciaries went home with a smile
on their faces indicating the
realization of the objectives of
the program.
This is the first time of Amun-
gan National High to conduct
and have this kind of commu-
nity engagement with almost
250 beneficiaries both in Share
a Meal and Community Pantry
Vilma M. Arfapo, Master Teacher I
Ramon Magsaysay State Uni-
versity (PRMSU) to give birth
to Project MERIT (Math and
English Riding in Tandem) last
September 2022.
Project MERIT is the
very first project of Language
and Math Department in
partnership with stakehold-
ers. This project addresses
the problems on numeracy
features
Just like we are
coping with the
New Normal
and it is a big success that we
are planning to make a YEAR
System, we are now
showing progress
TWO of this PROJECT RICH.
All the donors and sponsors
and becoming more
active in some of
as well as the teachers and
our activities.
staff who aided in the imple-
mentation of the project were
given certificates of recogni-
tion. The financial report for
the said activity was prepared
and submitted to the Office of
the Principal for transparency
purposes.
and reading difficulties of Ju-
nior and Senior high school
students. It also aims to iden-
tify solutions to enhance and
remediate identified learn-
ers this school year. Working
as a team, creative solutions
were identified such as con-
ceptualizing assessment test,
enhancement and remedia-
tion activities, crafting inter-
vention materials, monitoring
of progress report, in-service
trainings of teachers and
making research that will help
in uplifting reading and nu-
meracy.

features
Project MERIT also
gave way to the birth of
other connected projects
in English such as Project
REAP (Reading Enhancement
Amidst Pandemic) and Proj-
ect MATHHOLISTIC in Math-
ematics which also anchored
to increase of independent
readers and numerate learn-
ers.
Memorandum of
Agreement is done between
the two parties of Amungan
National High School and
PRMSU-CTE in the areas of
extension as they collaborate
to provide needed materials
and provide assessment and
feedbacks for the implemen-
tation of the program.
Aside from the
goal of improving literacy
and numeracy, the part-
nership extended help to
the less-fortunate students
of Amungan National High
School belonging to Indig-
enous People Group in Sitio
Olpoy, Amungan, Iba, Zam-
bales. Together with Philip-
pine National Police (PNP) of
Iba, Local Government Units,
Alumni Association, Municipal
and Provincial Government
and Private Citizens made a
way to undergo gift-giving
activity, feeding program,
handwashing and tooth-
brushing activities during the
Brigada Eskwela last Septem-
ber and December 2022. The
students received school sup-
plies, grocery packs, snacks,
slippers, soap, toothbrush and
toothpaste as a way of sharing nership with our stakeholders
blessings to them.
The collaboration of
is a very helpful way that will
lead in achieving our goals
Math, English, TLE, Filipino and objectives. Working and
and Araling Panlipunan De- sharing together as partners
partment together with all the will bring more developments
as it gives positive benefits
mostly to our clienteles-the
learners.
school partners in different
sectors had realized the said
activity that benefits our IP
learners with their families.
Indeed, the strong
connection of the school
with its partners will go a
long way to maximize goals
and objectives to help learn-
ers academically and reach
out and share blessings as
we continue to encourage
them to finish their studies.
Strengthening part-

it is an open secret that most of of attention. Teachers are said to

Teachers in the students are not the one who
answered their modules. During
be underpaid but overwork. We
can say that they are really living

Times of Pandemic online class, teachers also ex-

perience technology interaction
barriers (lack of gadget, low in-
heroes, but no one understand
that except their relatives who
are also teachers that have seen
Jinky Rose Baysa Basa, Teacher III ternet connection, noise on the their pile of works. Some of them
Amungan National High School background). experienced having classes un-
From downloading to printing, stapling, and packing of mod- Isn’t it amazing that these teach- der the tree, under the staircases,
ules to be received by different teacher-advisers, recounting ers are now called “jugglers”, as even comfort rooms, no, faculty
the received modules, binding different subjects per week, re- most of them served the role of rooms. Can someone think, not
the parent, as partner, as sib- just the welfare of the learners,
checking if the modules to be given were complete, placing
ling, as student, and as teacher but also teacher’s welfare since
students’ name on modules before giving it to the parents or - some of them creates modules, the learning of the students de-
guardians, sending pictures or information of the modules participating in the creation and pend on them? Will the govern-
and Summative or Performance Test through texts, chats – quality assurance of these learn- ment provide buildings which
any means just to inform the learners since most of them have ing resource materials, attending have a comfortable faculty rooms
no gadgets, cleaning, and nonstop arranging of the classroom virtual faculty meetings up to and clinic if there is something
before the day of distribution of modules arrived, are the rea- the different seminars and train- wrong related to their health
sons why we call teaching the noblest profession. ings, almost simultaneously and status and enough time to have
overlapping schedules. These are a rest day, vacation after end of
During the distribution of mod- modules if complete. In between some of the reasons why teach- school year to unwind and have
ules, teachers will remind again these weeks, the teacher will do ers do not have time for their time to spend with their families?
the parents or guardians, the the online class, paper works, personal and professional devel- All of these, the Filipino teachers
safety protocols, modules to be print again the succeeding mod- opment, cannot participate on survive drastic changes in their
retrieved, distribute the mod- ules together with the summative the ranking or other equivalent career or profession. Teachers
ules, contact other students or test and or performance test, in processes for promotion. deserve better. And with the
parents who still do not get their short, back to cycle from down- We are also aware of the rampant recent realizations about what
modules. Next week will be the loading before the distribution suicide cases of teachers who the public education sector has
Retrieval of modules wherein process. After these, teachers cannot handle these kinds of been lacking all these years, we
teachers will check each of the need to check the performance extremities, broken families, and realized pandemic is also a good
submitted answer sheets and output of the students, although delinquent children due to lack educator.
 features
Pandemic Ian Christian A. Febrer, Teacher III

A LIFE CHANGER
Amungan National High School

It has been three years when P – Positivity

COVID-19 pandemic has led to a
dramatic loss of human life world-
wide and presents unprecedented
challenges not only to public health,
economic and social disruption, ed-
ucation and many more. These try-
ing times led us to ponder on what
lessons we learnt from this
phenomenon.
We learn to look at the good things that pandemic may
bring. Our optimism and positive outlook coupled with our
fervent prayers made us continue to believe that this health
crisis will end soon, and we can go back to our normal lives.
A – Appreciation
With the unforgettable moment that everyone is
prohibited from going out of our homes due to the alert
level, we tend to appreciate the value of our time with fam-
ilies, friends, work and utilized most of our chances to con-
nect with them virtually.

N – Nature-Lover
Since we stayed at home most of the time, many people diverted their hobby in
improving their gardens, replanting of ornamental plants and trees on their orchard and even
selling these plants online. We tend to appreciate the nature and utilized our vacant time in a
worthwhile activity.

E – Empathetic
Many were greatly affected emotionally by the coming of pandemic but we shared
our time to comfort each other despite the distance. Grateful to have phone we were able to
connect with our loved ones. This is the simple thing we can do to uplift the spirit of some who
needs care and comfort.

M – Motivated
With our courage to continue living our lives despite the hindrances of pandemic,
we are still motivated to overcome the great trial. As we acknowledge guidance, we continue
to believe that we can surpass each day.
I – Initiative
When pandemic started to create chaos in our world, we have prepared ourselves to be
healthier and fit as our initiative to combat viruses. We became health conscious for we know it is from
ourselves who will start to fight the forces of various viruses. Proper intake of medicines coupled with
eating nutritious foods, proper hygiene by observing protocols, wore mask and face shields are just
some of our ways to hurdle the deadly COVID.

C - Courage, Care and Creativity

People continue to believe that there will be better days ahead of us. We continue to care not
only for ourselves but also for others. We appreciated our frontliners as they do heroic deeds each day.
More people became creative and inventive because they have enough time to do it.
We really don’t know what tomorrow may bring but with constant communication with the
most powerful G, with the strong faith we have, we continue to believe that in times we can go back to
normal or to the new normal
Let us put in mind G is mightier than P.
Keep believing!

features
22
VOL X
No. 01
The longest two agonizing
days went by. At last I received
a call, finally they found an
isolation room for me. On the
first two days, I drastically lost
weight, couldn’t eat nor drink
and almost lost consciousness
due to my breathing difficulty.
The following day it was im-
possible for me to walk to the
bathroom.
I felt I was being moved on the
fourth day. Each tiny touch hurt
and I was too weak even just
to open my eyes. Alone and
so sick, I said,” Lord I will not
complain no matter how pain-
ful this is and is going to be but
please let me live.”
I was transferred to the Inten-
sive Care Unit (ICU). They let
me sign for some drugs I have
not heard before and went
through several tests, the most
painful was the Arterial Blood
Gases (ABG) test done every-
day to measure my oxygen lev-
el. Then, I was connected to a
High-Flow Nasal Cannula Oxy-
gen Machine when my oxygen
sat went down to forty.
I was asked to lie down on my
LIVE STRUGGLINGLY
or STRUGGLE
stomach so I was forced to do
deep breathing. I tried not to
move nor speak to preserve
whatever energy was left of
me and concentrated on stay-
ing conscious. I wanted to
live for my family, friends and
co-workers who were sending
love messages read to me by
the nurse, for I was even too
weak to hold my phone.
On my fifteenth day at the ICU,
the pain was indescribable I
asked the Lord, “Please tell my
family and friends to under-
stand that I’m already so tired”.
For the first time in my life I no
longer wanted to fight back.
The witchy me can’t stand it
anymore. Then I heard a female
voice saying, “Wag ka mag-ala-
la, hindi ka namin pababayaan”.
Was it the doctor or the nurse?
The nurse on duty said nobody
came near me that afternoon.
I was able to sit for the first
time the following day, that
fine Mother’s Day morning. I
felt different, I was hungry af-
ter spending more than twenty
days there. Three more days at
the ICU and I was transferred to
FOR LIFE?
LIZA L. BADILLO
Principal -IV
Calapandayan Integrated School
“We can’t accept you ma’am, there are still
20 patients before you waiting to be confined”.
T he nurse who approached me in the hospital’s parking
lot firmly said. I’ve instructed the van driver to take me
back home after trying to be admitted but refused by
three hospitals. I’ve tried not to lose hope and fought for my
breath. Do I have to wish for those 20 sick people lined up before
me to give up so I can be taken in? I tried to brush off this selfish
thought and prayed for strength instead as I stayed home.
a private room. I was so excited time remembering things. I
I tried to walk to the bathroom have not fully recovered from
but I fell. I could not walk, my the trauma but I’m happy to be
knees felt so weak I had to use alive. Life is so wonderful even
the wheelchair. if we have lots of struggles ev-
After almost a month I was eryday!
finally on my way home. The
van’s radio was playing Milli Fit to work
Vanilli’s “Girl I’m Gonna Miss after 3 months
You”. That was my favorite
song in high school but that
did not make me cry. I wasn’t
able to hold back my tears
just looking at the roads,
mountains and establish-
ments that I thought I’d
never see again. Even
the dump site looked
so beautiful. They had to
carry me to get me into my
bedroom and it took me a cou-
ple of months more to get well.
A caregiver stayed with me. I
had everybody’s attention but
even if that made me feel so
loved I don’t want to go back
there ever again.
My hair fell off and my nails
stopped growing for three
months, the doctor said it was
due to the loss of oxygen from
my brain. I still have a hard
 And we, the reading teachers at
Embracing The Challenges Don Marcelo C. Marty Elementary
Of The New With Virtues Of School, stand by our commitment
in embracing the challenges of new
The Old In Teaching Reading with the virtues of the old, para sa
pamilya, sa bata, at sa bayan.
Ma. Christiane Marty Proyalde, Teacher III
Don Marcelo C. Marty Elementary School, Sta. Cruz
COVID-19 pandemic poses a big challenge in responding to basic
rights. The situation for the school year 2021-2022 has been much dif- in the new normal. But instead of for
ferent. With the physical distancing and community quarantine being flowers, balloons, and gifts, read- our learners
among the measures to contain the spread of the virus, suspension of ing materials were placed in the as it has been critical to pro-
face-to-face classes and other school activities have heavily affected car trunk with some decorations vide them with more options to
most especially the learners’ reading skill. to make it more appealing for the learn. We have yearned for the
learners. time when suspension of classes
Relative to DepEd Memorandum problem of non-readers in the Donations, solicitations, and as-
no. 173, s. 2019 re: Hamon: Bawat school. With the increasing num- will not in any way impede and
sistance of PTA and other stake- delay the delivery of learning,
Bata Bumabasa, the Don Marce- ber of the non-readers, the school holders were some of the ways
lo C. Marty Elementary School reading team came up with the kidding aside, COVID-19 pala
that augment the financial needs ang makakapagpabago at maka-
(DMCMES) headed by Mrs. Edna plan of developing and enhanc- of the said program.
M. Sarmiento is relentless as they ing the reading skill of the pupils kapagbigay ng alternatibong
Through the concert- solusyon. In that sense, we just
are in their pursuit for quality by visiting the struggling readers ed effort of school head, teach-
education amid the challenges on scheduled basis to teach read- have to keep on looking at the
ers, parents, learners, and other brighter sides of life and take all
posed by the new normal en- ing. It is the goal of this project stakeholders reading is once
vironment which has resulted to help increase reading ability the opportunities and the chanc-
again put in the pedestal where- es that this situation had given
from the COVID-19 pandemic. among the learners by provid- in the pandemic has never been
They continuously aim to elevate ing them the books and learning us.
a hindrance to reach the goal: And we, the reading
reading skill and comprehension materials and sessions tailored BAwat BAta Sama-samang Aan-
of the learners by amplifying its for their reading needs. To en- teachers at Don Marcelo C. Marty
gat Sa Pandemya. Elementary School, stand by our
campaign of establishing reading tice the learners to read, reading The educational system
avenue through project Project materials such as big books, story commitment in embracing the
has been shaken up dramatically, challenges of new with the vir-
BABASA (BAwat BAta Sama-sa- books, and charts are arranged but it created better opportuni-
mang Aangat) sa PANDEMYA. In just like the car trunk surprise that tues of the old, para sa pamilya,
ties for new learning and perspec- sa bata, at sa bayan.
response to the challenge cited is circulating on social media as tives for teachers and especially
above, the school prompted to a new way to surprise loved ones
establish its own reading pro-
gram which will not only address
those who belong in the cream of
the top but designed programs
that will address the emergent

In times of a
health crisis,
Parents are one of the school partners in the development of a variety of school programs and initiatives. They are known
as compassionate people in schools because, in the first place, they realize that their children benefit from these programs
and initiatives.
In times of a health crisis, schools rely on the assistance of
parents in their children’s studies. They are the ones that serve
as teachers for their own children or are commonly referred to
as learning facilitators. There are several duties added to their
function as learning facilitators. They really need support and
help in the success of their new assigned role. The primary role
of parents as learning facilitators is to ensure that their chil-
dren understand the content of the lessons. They will do this
by getting the knowledge and skills to carry out their assigned
tasks. So, the schools come up with parents’ orientation on this
matter to clarify their roles and responsibilities.
During the orientation process, parents are first thanked for
taking up their new role in the midst of the health crisis. They
are often called ‘teachers’ because they play the role of teach-
ers to their own children. Parents are encouraged in the suc-
cess of their function as learning facilitators. First, they are ad-
vised to read the contents of the Weekly Home Learning Plan
(WHLP) which will guide them in the success of their position.
The goal of the WHLP is to focus on learning activities, be-
cause they serve as the basis for what they need to do in any
field of learning during the week. During the pre-pandemic
time, teachers first review their lessons before attending their
features
schools rely on
the assistance
of parents in
their children’s
studies. VOL X
No. 01
Photo by: ondares
Rachel Apostol M
Teacher II School
Sagpat Elementary
Parents as
Learning
Facilitators
Shiela Mae Francia Fuñe
Teacher I
Sagpat Elementary School, District of San Felipe
class; parents are encouraged to read the contents of their chil-
dren’s modules as well. It is critical that they have background
knowledge of the content of the lessons. They’ll be reminded
to check the dictionary, or even Google, once they don’t under-
stand the lessons. In the same way, teachers are very receptive
to their needs so that they can ask for help and assistance in the
lessons they find difficult. Monitoring the work of their children
is very important to ensure that all tasks are done before the
deadline for submission of outputs. Lastly, parents are remind-
ed to remain calm during the success of their new assigned
role. Teachers are aware that it is not easy to move from one
position to another. In addition, parents are reminded to enjoy
their experience of doing teachers’ work with their children and
there are many lessons to be learned.
Parents are considerate to their children during the modular
session. There are times where their schedules are not enforced
as they are due to changes in their children’s mood. As a re-
sult, parents normally concentrate on unique tasks in the mod-
ules for the benefit of their children. When their children are
already in a mood to work, it’s time for parents to do their job
as learning facilitators – to explain the content, provide exam-
PARENTS PAGE 25
SAAN AABOT FROM PAGE 24 PARENTS

ANG
ples, and show how to work

P 1 500
on the module. When parents
ensure that their children can
work on their own, they stay
with them and look for their
accomplished activities. They
immediately ask questions

MO? Sa mahal ng mga bilihin about it when they see that

Ernesto M. Samson Jr.
something is wrong.This is a
at bayarin sa kasalukuyan, signal to the children to go
Bantog ang linyang “Saan aabot ang bente pesos mo?” sa kulang na kulang ang hal- through their responses and
komersyal ng isang sikat na produkto ng ice cream na kung agang ito para matustusan try to make sure they have
saan sinasabing sa halagang ito ay mayroon pa ring maiha- the right answer.
hatid na saya at pakinabang sa isang tao. Sa parte ng kagu- ang mga pangangailangan There are also occasions
ruan ngayon, tila ba isang dagok ang pagtanggap ng 1,500 ng isang guro. Saan nga when their children have not
na sahod tuwing ikalabing-lima ng buwan dahil sa dami ng ba aabot ang P1500 mo? completed their weekly tasks.
kaltas. Sa mahal ng mga bilihin at bayarin sa kasalukuyan, In this situation, some par-
kulang na kulang ang halagang ito para matustusan ang 1. Ang financial literacy ay ang ents prefer to work overtime
mga pangangailangan ng isang guro. Saan nga ba aabot ang kakayahang maunawaan at on the unfinished activities of
P1500 mo? epektibong paggamit ng iba’t their children. They instantly
Enero ng taong kasalukuyan sa pagkain, kuryente, internet, ibang kasanayan sa pananala- have the right answers to all
nang ipatupad ng Kagawaran cable, load, pamasahe, tubig pi, kabilang ang personal na activities so they can submit
ng Edukasyon sa pangungu- at ilan pang mga pangangail- pamamahala sa pananalapi, the modules on time. This sit-
na ni Kalihim Leonor M. Bri- angan ng guro sa bahay at pagbabadyet, at pamumuhu- uation must not be tolerated
ones ang kinsenas-katapusan paaralan. Ito ang dahilan kung nan. Ang financial literacy ay by parents, as the nature of
na pagtanggap ng sahod ng bakit naghahanap ng iba pang ang pundasyon ng iyong relas- learning becomes meaning-
kaguruan base sa rekomen- mapagkakakitaan tulad ng on- yon sa pera, at ito ay isang less. In the same way, children
dasyon ng DepEd Central Of- line selling at iba pang nego- habambuhay na paglalakbay will be exposed to this prac-
fice APDS Task Force sa pam- syo. Kaya naman, panawagan ng pag-aaral. Nagbibigay ang tice such that they will never
amagitan ng APDS Task Force ni ACT Teachers Rep. France Government Service Insurance have the right attitudes to
Resolution No. 06, s. 2021 na Castro, suspendihin ang 15-30 System (GSIS) ng seminar sa work on their modules.
pinamagatang “A Resolution salary scheme, i-upgrade ang financial literacy sa mga nag- Parents as learning facilitators
Recommending the Approval sweldo ng mga guro at taasan nanais kumuha ng GSIS Fi- have a vital role to play in this
to Utilize the Existing FoxPro ang minimum na sweldo ng nancial Assistance Loan (GFAL) time of health crisis. They do
Program of Regional Offic- mga kawani. upang gabayan ang mga ito sa not, however, have the choice
es that Implement the Twice Ang problemang ito ay dulot paggamit ng perang hihiramin. of not sacrificing their chil-
A Month Salary Releases to ng labis na paglo-loan ng mga Ang sitwasyong ito ay sadyang dren’s studies. Parents need
DepEd Regional Office Prop- guro. Nauso ang mga katagang malaking hamon para sa mga enough time to play their ad-
er”. Ito ay pagtugon sa proble- taga-London (loan doon) at kaguruan. Subalit kung titing- ditional tasks. This is the best
ma ng maling pamamahala ng T3 (ti-tritawsan ang sahod) sa nan natin, personal na desisyon way for them to offer guid-
pananalapi ng mga kaguruan. mga guro dahil nga sa pagde- ng kaguruan kung bakit uma- ance and assistance to their
Subalit tila hindi natuwa ang pende ng mga ito sa nagpap- bot sa puntong kakarampot children in their studies. This
karamihan ng mga kaguruan ahiram ng pera. Ginagawang na lamang ang sweldong tina- is the way of life of parents
sa programang ito lalo na ang biro ang mga ito ngunit ang tanggap nito lalo sa iskemang who serve as facilitators of
mga sumasahod na lamang ng totoo, ito ay isang seryosong kinsenas-katapusan. Sadyang learning for their children.
P5000. Nakapaloob sa halag- usapin. Isa sa mga kailangang ang pagkakaroon ng alternat-
ang ito ang P2000 allowance na matutunan ng isang 21st cen- ibong pagkakakitaan ang isa sa
sa katapusan pa ibibigay. P3000 tury titser ay ang pagkakaroon mga solusyon para rito. Maaari
na lamang ang matitira na ha- ng financial literacy o kaalaman rin naming humiling ng umen-
hatiin sa dalawa kaya P1500 na sa pamamahala ng pananalapi. to sa sahod ang kaguruan upa-
lamang ang matatanggap tu- Ayon sa Programme for Inter- ng maibsan ang suliraning ito.
wing kinsenas. Wika ng isang national Student Assessment Higit sa lahat kailangang matu-
guro “Mas nakadidismaya ang (PISA) ang financial literacy ay tunan ng bawat isang guro ang
kinsenas-katapusan na sa- isang mahalagang kasanayan matalino at mapanagutang
hod.” Kung susumahin, kulang para sa ika-21 siglo. Ito rin ay pamamahala ng kanilang pa-
na kulang ang halagang iyan nakasaad sa modyul ng SEAM- nanalapi upang maiwasan ang
upang tugunan ang gastusin EO Innotech GURO 21 Course problema sa aspetong ito.
features
Effective People Management:
Significant ways that work easier,
enabled and impactful
(First of three-series)
Don Peter Bada / Lerio Rose Q. Hugo

Most of us have at some point in our lives benefited from the generosity of a friend
or family member who has listened to us as we have struggled to come to terms with
VOL X a challenge or a problem. In our daily experiences as Human Resource (HR) Practi-
No. 01 tioners, such support and guidance is often referred to as coaching or mentoring. As
we understand some of the skills and techniques associated with coaching and men-
toring, and use them in our conversations with teachers, students and their parents
and/or guardians. We use them to convey in manners that only heart can understand.

Effective people management demonstrates
that leaders can significantly improve the performance
of their organizations and communities through coach-
ing and mentoring. Most people speak of coaching and
mentoring as if they were the same thing. While they are
two different approaches to working with individuals and
teams, they do have one important thing in common:
both depend for their effectiveness on being able to de-
velop strong, trusting relationships with the person who
the coach or mentor is helping. Learning how to hold con-
sensual conversations is really important in forming such
relationships.
A consensual conversation is one in which the
two speakers are in harmony.
While the purpose of their conversation may not
be to seek agreement, they do agree about how they will
listen to and understand each other, show true interest
in what the other person is sharing, show respect for the
other person and for the views that they express.
As a leader, you may be used to having people
agree with you just because of who you are. Holding tru-
ly consensual conversations may therefore be a skill that
you often have to learn and practice. It is important to
remember that two colleagues casually talking with each
other about their work is simply a ‘chat’. When their con-
versation is deliberately designed to help one of them
address a problem or seize an opportunity, it has a clear
purpose – ultimately, to improve teaching and learning –
and moves into the territory of coaching or mentoring.
The Coaching Leader: Developing Individuals and
Teams
During the recent Schools Division Training entitled
“The Coaching Leader: Developing Individuals and Teams”, Dr.
Michelle A. Mejica, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent
stressed that Performance Management identifies the orga-
nization’s objectives, the necessary results to achieve these
objectives, the ways to be effective these objectives, and the
drivers to achieve them.
According to her, being engaged is not the same as
achieve results. It makes us understand that the training, work
and great commitment – are not results. Just for this, the per-
formance management has its focus on achieving the best
results within the organization, department, team or individ-
ual through understanding and performance management,
orienting our efforts towards efficiency within a framework
of planned goals, standards and skills required. In short, per-
formance management includes all activities that ensure the
organization’s objectives are being met effectively. One of the
most important part of human resource management in the
organization is the performance assessment of employees.
And embracing ways that work easier, enabled and impactful
are paramount to effective people management.
Impact on the quality of learning and achievement
Mejica further emphasized that by applying such
strategies, HR practitioners can significantly improve the per-
formance of the individual being coached or mentored, while
contributing to the success of their organisation. School lead-

“
Effective people management demon-
strates that leaders can significantly
improve the performance of their or-
ganizations and communities through
coaching and mentoring.
ers rarely have control over the resources, but they do have
the ability to create a school culture that values everyone in
the school and emphasises the importance of relationships
and provides support to teachers. Practising coaching and
mentoring in your school and sharing the skills with col-
leagues will contribute to richer relationships between teach-
ers and students, which will directly impact on the quality of
learning and achievement most specially by people working
in an organization.

Putting Emotions in the Right Respective of
People Management
In the recent Regional Training of Trainers for Hu-
man Resorce Practioners on Effective People Management
attended by DepEd Region 3 HR Practitioners at the Na-
tional Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) III, Pu-
lungbulu, Angeles City last June 22-24, Dr. Michelle Agui-
lar-Ong, Mabalacat City College (MCC) President shared the
Best Practices of MCC.
In her virtual presentation “Putting Emotions in the
Right Respective of People Management”, Ong shared the
essential and influencial emotions being processed in hu-
mans. Providing concrete examples, Dr. Ong cited some of
the Best Practices MCC employs that manifest the language
of care, sense of belonging, self-dignity, celebration, and
connection.
features
While Ong points out the ideals of cano-
py of people management, a key sub-set of human
resource management, covering all aspects of how
people work, behave, engage and grow at work, Me-
jica signifies the Schools Division relentless effort to
systematically employ effective measures to keep
their people love their work. As embodied in Schools
Division Human Resource Management Develop-
ment (HRMD) Plan, Mejica expounds on the key
pillars of people management which include per-
formance management, organization development,
safety, wellness, benefits, employee motivation and
engagement, communication, administration, and
training. According to her, these aspects of people
management according weave the cultural fabric within the
organization and lead to an employee experience that attracts
and retains the right talent.

Strategic Skills in Managing and Transforming the Peo-
ple and the Institution
Sharing ways how MCC transformed into its new
looks, Ong emphasized people management skills that can
make all the difference between bad, mediocre, good and
great employee experience. According to her, MCC has new
upgrades in the functioning of Human Resource systems
and processes have altered the nature, extent and scope of
people management. This according to her are at the piv-
otal idea and aim remains to manage people better in ways
that work easier, enabled and impactful.
Competitive Rewards and Recognition System
Both Mejica and Ong stressed that people manage-
ment defines a set of practices that encompass the end-to-
end processes of talent acquisition, talent optimization, and
talent retention while providing continued support for the
business and guidance for the employees of an organiza-
tion particularly on how employees are being treated, re-
warded and recognized through its programs on employees
welfare.
Creating and building a workforce that
builds a better future for employees
Considering these ways that work easier, enabled and impact-
ful, people management is a linear process system that begins
with talent acquisition – the building of effective teams.
With these, we are knowing the purpose for each team and
every member within it is key to success. When we are build-
ing teams, it is important to choose the right tools to do so.
This begins with choosing the right recruitment platforms,
creating an employer brand the candidates trust and want to
work with and providing an engaging candidate experience.
Creating the right team structure also involves setting up pro-
cesses, boundaries and a robust framework of functioning, it
helps to create a roadmap to success and a functional plan to
take the lead. Empathy is the key word. Active listening, and a
people-first approach lead to a deeper mutual understanding
of individuals and collectives. People are different and in order
to set a tone for respect, loyalty, and commitment within the
organization, people management needs to focus on optimiz-
ing these differences.

Mejica signifies the Schools Division relentless effort

to systematically employ effective measures to keep
their people love their work. As embodied in Schools
Division Human Resource Management Development
(HRMD) Plan, Mejica expounds on the key pillars of
people management which include performance
management, organization development, safety,
wellness, benefits, employee motivation and engage-
ment, communication, administration, and training.
According to her, these aspects of people manage-
ment according weave the cultural fabric within the
organization and lead to an employee experience that
attracts and retains the right talent.
L
ife’s battles are
numerous, over-
whelming and
some come in the
most unexpected
ways. Such scuffles shouldn’t
dim the emblem of hope but
instead, these should be
used as inspirations to face
all of the world’s adversities
with volumes of courage,
perseverance and patience.
One can’t really fathom the
meaning of the word out-
standing from its synonyms
nor antonyms. Not even
from accomplishments that
lack veracity.
Stories of teachers
assigned in far flung areas like
mountains, islands and the
likes have always been regard-
ed as inspiring narratives es-
pecially those who walk miles,
cross rivers and walk over
muddy and precarious ridges
for several hours or even days
leading to the school or work
station. This is the reality that
has melted the hearts of many
through and through.
ISLAND IDOLS,
All hardworking and
dedicated teachers,
especially those who
are stationed in areas
that are risky are the
ultimate idols.
Braving the Waves of Life:
a Hero’s Legacy to the World
Riding on an animal,
particularly a water buffalo or
a carabao or horse and boats
just to reach the institution
that is situated at the edge
or top of a mountain, heart
of an island and areas with-
out source of electricity and
Every educator is
no internet and network sig-
best or outstanding in his
nals compromising the line of A pandemic will never dim a
own right and his greatness
communication are some of teacher’s path as he continues
shouldn’t only be recognized
the hardest experiences of a to brave the waves of life as a
for a month or two. His stay in
teacher in his chosen profes- hero with a hidden cape just to
his workplace for 10 months
sion. educate a huge fraction of the
as well as the immeasurable
world’s populace.
efforts and dedication he has
There’s no doubt
given in his profession are
that teachers are the bearers All hardworking and
more than enough to give him
of a torch full of wisdom that dedicated teachers, especial-
due recognition as far as it
are imparted to learners in a ly those who are stationed in
isn’t halfhearted. The flexibility
working arena where young areas that are risky are the ul-
he exudes is beyond compare
minds and mature souls get timate idols. They are warriors
and was intensified at the on-
to find the missing pieces who are worthy of being Out-
set of global pandemic shift-
and solve life’s puzzle. Such standing Employees for 365&
ing the educational system
notion supports an old yet ¼ days for serving and brav-
from face-to-face to blended
striking adage emphasizing ing the oddities of the largest
learning and now, to limited
that “Teaching is the noblest battlefield called LIFE.
face-to-face observing the
profession” and that all other
“
minimum health protocols.
professions originated from it.
See, every inch of a teacher is
undeniably a source of inspira-
tion and his greatness will for- See, every inch of a teacher is undeniably
ever be planted in the minds a source of inspiration and his greatness
and hearts of his learners from will forever be planted in the minds and
one astounding generation to hearts of his learners from one astound-
another.
ing generation to another.
Jose Elamparo Elevado Jr.
Head Teacher I
Magalawa Elementary School
 features
With Pili E/S Reading
Teachers

Reading Intervention Material

29 VOL X
No. 01

for The New Normal Liza L. Badillo, Principal IV

T
he greatest challenge that we, educators face since
the outbreak of COVID 19 is transforming the role of
parents as our co-facilitators in teaching. How can
we assist these homemakers in teaching reading at
home? This is the very reason why the Guided Reading Activity
Sheets (GRAS) was designed.
The (GRAS) manual in Filipino the Daily Reading Interven-
is a detailed guide for parents tion Plan which was used in With Ilwas E/S Reading
designed for Modular Distance the study entitled “Efficacy of Teachers
Learning now that face to face the Daily Reading Intervention
learning modality is not recom- Plan for Early Readers with tion material. It is highly rec- the Guided Reading Activity
mended. It contains 60 lessons Typical Reading Delay” (Proj- ommended not only for inter- Sheets (GRAS) for Beginning
in teaching reading in Filipino ect DRIP) which won First Place vention purposes but also for Readers in the New Normal”
good for 10 minutes daily for in the 2018 Regional Research teaching beginning reading. conducted at San Antonio Cen-
early readers and can also be Congress. It has been used in tral Elementary School (SACES),
used as intervention material schools like Calapandayan Inte- Aside from the 60 daily read- SY 2020-2021 with Kindergar-
to learners with typical reading grated School, Ilwas Elementary ing lessons, GRAS contains the ten learners as respondents.
delay. School, Batiawan 1 Integrated following: the 45 item pre/post The study proved its effective-
School Annex and Kinabuksan tests, weekly tests (for weeks 1 ness and was also used as in-
This is a modified version of Integrated School as interven- to 12), a sample weekly activity tervention material for SACES
chart to track learner’s progress learners with reading delay
Note: For those interested to adapt the and the rubric used in assessing in all grade levels. GRAS was
GRAS Manual please email us so we can daily reading activities. adapted by schools like San
Felipe West Elementary School,
send you the complete copy. GRAS was used in the research Pili Elementary School and Il-
500770@deped.gov.ph study entitled “The Efficacy of was Elementary School.

With San Felipe West This Parents’ Guide was crafted

Central E/S Reading in support of DepEd’s 3Bs Ini-
Teachers
tiative and DepEd Zambales’
Reading Advocacy, “Reading to
the Roots” to address reading
problems in the division and at-
tain its goal of creating schools
with zero non-readers (Reading
to the Roots, DepEd, Zambales).
features
REDEFINING ROLES
Towards strengthened and
revitalized SLAC
Grace M. Echeche, Master Teacher II
Guisguis National High School

Teachers affect eternity; they can never tell where their influence
VOL X
No. 01 stops. Leaning on this positive perspective, this borrowed quote from
Henry Adams about teachers’ impact to their learners truly uplifts
the spirit of the tired and exhausted teachers of this pandemic-in-
flicted education times.

Restricted by the IATF guidelines, learners where
confined at their home-based learning stations for al-
most two school years now. Anchored to the belief that
teachers play a crucial role in nation building (PPST, 2017),
teachers never stopped finding and crafting creative ways
to provide meaningful lessons among students amidst
pandemic crisis. Although teachers are out of touch, they
resourcefully keep in touch virtually or modularly.With
this scenario, teachers have been granted more time to
learn to cope with these challenging times through con-
duct of focus group discussions or school learning actions
cells.
Going back with Adam’s quote, teachers do not only in-
fluence their learners, they also influence their colleagues
in their schools. This is one of the crucial roles of a “highly
proficient” teachers – to coach and mentor. As the pan-
demic still engulf the school year, Master Teachers (MTs)
are compelled to lead in providing coaching and men-
toring to all the teachers in need of technical assistance
together with their school head.
According to Ellinger (2014), the current trends in ed-
ucation show that ‘effective coaching and mentoring
programs are regarded as a highly effective method of
assisting individuals in increasing their self-direction,
self-esteem, efficacy, and accomplishments through com-
munication. As more teachers experience mental health
issues during this pandemic, it is high time that a sound
coaching and mentoring be implemented at least in the
school.
In a comparative qualitative study of roles and responsi-
bilities between Filipino and Malaysian MTs, Filipino MTs
roles beyond school and community appear to be limited,
while their impact on students and colleagues appears to
be unclear. (Bush et.al 2016). It is sad to note teachers
in the field do not see clearly the roles rendered by the
MTs. With the plethora of ancillary jobs and expectations
from the master teachers, no wonder, they experience
confusion on what to do and when and where to start
putting themselves first. Henceforth, redefining their roles
may help them identify further their priorities and focus on
one of the vital roles of an MT explicitly described in Philip-
pine Professional Standard for Teachers (PPST) – modeling,
coaching and mentoring.
Coaching and mentoring of MTs may lean towards either
personal or professional development of teachers. DepEd
Order no. 35 s. 2016, wherein SLAC is defined as primarily
functioning as a professional learning community for teach-
ers that will help them improve practice and learner achieve-
ment. Stipulated in this DepEd Order is the role of the MTs
to be LAC Facilitators. Last school year, the National Educa-
tors Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) in coordination with
the bureaus in the Central Office and the Education Forum,
Learning Delivery Modality (LDM) Course was implemented
for supervisors, school head and teachers. Again, in this ac-
tivity, with the assistance of the school head, MTs paved the
way in fulfilling the objectives of LDM course.
Given their mandated opportunities to fulfill the roles of a
highly proficient teachers, MTs may opt to reexamine their
goals and redirect their perspective to a better coaching
and mentoring. Teachers essentially need more assistance
more than they seem to be. Some are independent and
self-sufficient but many hardly cope much more articulate
their issues and sentiments. Keen observation is the key,
an MT needs be more sensitive to the teachers’ situations
and needs. Offered with more time to conduct focus group
discussions and learning action cells, MTs should make it
a point to instill harmonious relationship and open com-
munication all the time. Providing and receiving construc-
tive feedback are more vital keywords relative to effective
coaching and mentoring. It will not only lead to improve-
ment of practices in teaching and learning but also, bet-
ter professional and personal relationship can be gained.
Moreover, misconceptions about MTs not performing what
is expected of them will be axed fully.
MTs are the “crème de la crème” of the teaching profes-
sion, therefore, teachers and school stakeholders look up to
them. Keep that notion by reflecting today and redefine the
roles placed on your MT’s shoulders.
Teaching Word Recognition Rommel R. Quinsay
Teacher III
in the Primary Grades Pamatawan Integrated School

W
hen the child becomes interested in reading and feels
the need to recognize words more readily, special prac-
tice or drills in word recognition should be provided.
Such exercises should be given in special periods, with a maxi-
mum length of ten minutes rather than during regular reading les-
sons. Such practices or drills should be lively, interesting and var-
ied. These exercises should be motivated by means of the child’s
interest in play, games, achievement and competition. Records of
accomplishment and progress stimulate interest. In the early stag-
es, training in power and accuracy is more important than speed
of recognition. Some of the exercises should require an oral re-
sponse and in some, a silent response such as matching words
and pictures. A variety of materials are required, including word
and phrase cards. The pupils should be grouped according to need
for word-drill, and in each case, the drill should be adapted to the
needs of the groups. In securing the best results, much will depend
upon the resourceful management of the teacher.
A by position. Competition through races and games may well be
The following were practices used by successful primary
teachers:
1. Place word cards for naming-words such as box,
chain, door and desk, on or adjacent to their respective objects.
Ask one of the pupils to get the card for box, suggesting that all
pupils observe the word carefully to be able to match the words
and objects later. Call on different pupils until all the cards have
been collected. Distribute the cards one to a child, and have the
children place them. Continue in this way, giving particular atten-
tion to pupils having difficulty.
2. Place color cards along the blackboard ledge
some distance apart. Place the corresponding word-card in front
of each color card. Proceed as in 1.
3. Make collections of large-sized mounted pic-
tures and have similar matching of pictures, word pictures and
phrases, and pictures and sentences.
4. Place word-cards in column on the chart and
have pupils name the words as they are pointed out. Rearrange
the cards frequently to prevent the child from learning the word
utilized in such exercises.
5. Expose action words or short action sentences,
and have individual pupils respond in terms of action.
6. Write or print words, phrases or sentences on
the lower part of the blackboard. Have them matched with corre-
sponding phrase, or sentence cards.

Intensifying Reading Skills amidst

Challenging World of Teaching
R eading is thought-out as the stepping-stones of every
child towards boundless journey and discoveries. By
means of reading, an individual cannot only acquire
and extrapolate vast amount of knowledge and ideas but also
allows them to explore the world of unknown. And even in to-
essary information to par-
ents with regards on proper
approaches and strategies
to be used in teaching and
enhancing reading skills
Juvy Olanda Marmito
Teacher III
Cabangan Elementary School

day’s vulnerable situation, still intensifying reading skill is the of their children. In addi-
ultimate concern of everyone. tion, teachers are expected

In response to the challeng-

ing situation, teachers and
parents are still unified and
became more resilient in
amplifying the reading skills
of learners. Parents are the
ones who meet by teachers
personally in school instead
of learners which lead them
to become more partici-
pative in the educational
process. Teachers are now
disseminating all the nec-
A.
The teacher conducted the on-the-spot
reading to monitor the reading prog-
ress of the learner
B.
The teacher provided immediate
feedback on the reading progress of
the learner
B
C.
The teacher provided proper approach-
es and strategies that parents can be
used in teaching and enhancing read-
ing skills of their children
to teach and guide parents or guardians on how to properly address the
reading difficulties. Knowing the fact that learning and improving how to
read are considered as one of the crucial stages in child’s development,
parents are well-trained by teachers on how to handle them. Every parent
is being thought by the teacher on various concepts about reading from
the basic into complex one which are intended for them to utilize in the
actual teaching and mentoring their children at home. It includes phono-
logical awareness, rhyming, blending, and segmenting which are the pri-
mary requirements for the young to enhance their extensive and intensive

reading ability. In addition, teachers are informing the par-

ents of all the difficulties or problems which might arise and

C hamper the reading ability of learners as well as preventive

measures to be done.
Teaching does not end merely on instruction. It re-
quires giving assessments and feedbacks which plays a vital
role in monitoring the learner’s progress. In connection with
the reading skills of students, teachers with the assistance
of the parents or guardians are conducting on-the-spot
reading activities through online using Messenger, Google
Meet and other technological applications depends on their
availability of resources. Those who have no internet access
were monitored through phone calls. By doing so, teachers
are able to take appropriate steps and measures in order to
fill in the gaps and enhance the reading skills of students. It
also serves an opportunity for the teachers and learners to
keep in touch even in this time of pandemic.
Behind the truth that we are currently experiencing
different and challenging situations, looking at those in a
most exceptional way will bring us the feeling of intense to
provide solutions. Despite some early setbacks, there will
always be a quality education through the cooperation of
everyone. Changes are eternal and the only thing we can do
is to adapt, adjust and take applicable demeanors in order
to continuously uplift someone’s situation especially for the
sake of the future’s generation.

virus. As time continues, the im-

Every dream starts from small steps: those
steps will serve as a guide to overcome and
achieve the dreams and make it possible.
But for the young ones of today’s time, their
dreams have been deferred.
Year 2019 when a local virus
named Novel Corona Virus start-
pact of the virus gets bigger and
unfortunately this pandemic has
occurred.
The pandemic has affected all
aspects of living, from different
travels to various activities, the
world has stopped for a while.
In the Philippines, travels before

Little
ed to spread along the globe.
The much known COVID 19 has
affected many countries and as
time goes by, affected the whole
world. Here in the Philippines, it
have been restricted, markets are
closed and activities are not en-
couraged but the most sad story
that this pandemic has brought
was the change in the education

Conquerors
is March 2020 when the whole
country faces lockdown. The
government imposed commu-
nity quarantine to restrict and
somehow stop the spread of the
system of the country.
June 2020 when the government
of the Philippines stated that
face-to-face classes or the tra-
ditional method of study will be

Rachel Ann Garcia , Teacher II LITTLE PAGE 33

San Agustin High School
COVID 19: Our Story of Faith and Resilience
Maria Theresa T. Soriano, Teacher I
Sta. Barbara Integrated School
The world seemed to stop when the Enhanced Com-
munity Quarantine was implemented in the country two
years ago. The most difficult opponent has arrived, the in-
visible opponent.
At first I thought that
after a few weeks it would be
back to normal. A few days and
weeks have passed; the ECQ is
still going on in the country. A
month later I just accepted that
this is our destiny. The prevalence
of disease caused by COVID-19 is
still not abated but is increasing.
The Covid19 virus has
been a huge blow to us. It has
taken us away from the things
we are used to and from the
things that give us comfort. This
pandemic presents us with chal-
lenges that could not have been
predicted from unforeseeable
time with family to homeschool-
ing, working from home, or not
working at all. These sudden and
drastic lifestyle changes, coupled
In times like this, we are doing our
very best to stay optimistic but
sometimes it’s not as easy as it sounds.
FROM PAGE 32 LITTLE
replaced by new modalities such
as online education and modu-
lar learning or flexible learning.
This is to continue the education
while we are all in the middle of a
health crisis.
One year passed and students
and teachers have been adaptive
to the changes brought over by
time. They redirected their ways
and at least conquer the new
happenings.
There is one story of a child, his
name was Anton. Anton was an
eight-year old child living in the
bustee of Zambales. His family
does not have the capability of
getting him into the new method
of learning. Though it was only
with uncertainty, can be over-
whelming, especially for parents
with young children.
In times like this, we
are doing our very best to stay
optimistic but sometimes it’s not
as easy as it sounds. Here are
some things to remember:
This is not always the
case. It’s a difficult time, but it
will not last forever. Everything
depends on how we perceive
things. I came across with this
beautiful quote: “Always train
your mind to see the good in ev-
ery situation”.
Recognize your accom-
plishments. It may be difficult
right now, but you have handled
several situations admirably.
Consider the physical, logistical,
modular but due to the difficul-
ties that his family faced, he was
forced to work on their farm. But,
through dedication and strong
vision, Anton worked hard and
dominated all difficulties and
recalibrated his fate into a bet-
ter one. He tried and overcame
challenges that this pandemic
gave to him.
The story of Anton was only a
manifestation that many young
individuals, particularly those
children belonging to marginal-
ized sectors are experiencing the
situation of Anton. You see, it is
not only you who faces so many
challenges. Everyone has been
affected but there is no reason
to endure these problems.
mental, and emotional problems
you’ve faced in the last month,
as well as the good — even
amazing — way you tackled and
dealt with them. Fighting!
Remind yourself of
the positive aspects of your life.
Some existing situations can be
tough to change and can make
you feel helpless. However, there
are other positive aspects of
your life for which you should be
grateful. Making a gratitude list,
no matter how long or short, can
help you change your focus to a
more positive place.
Faith is the same as
trust. You must have complete
faith that God is on your side
and that he will assist and pro-
tect you. He knows what is best
for you, but you must fully trust
him in order to fully embrace
what he has planned for you and
everything happens today has its
reasons.
Although our lives became com-
plicated and difficult when the
pandemic came, I also wanted to
share the lessons that these try-
ing times have taught us.
1. In the midst of this
pandemic I learned to be more
patient. I felt there was no rush
To those kids who faced the real
world on a young age, they are
heroes and soldiers in their own
wars. A huge salutation to those
people who combated every
single problem particularly on
mental health such as anxiety,
sadness, depression and other
mental illnesses. They trans-
formed these negativities into
instruments and inspiration to
fight and to not give up.
At the very end of the day,
dreams will continue to find
their way. It may be deferred but
for those people who are very
passionate and dedicated, they
will rise up and stand to be con-
querors on their own paths. A
big salute to all conquerors
of this pandemic!
in things because everyone was
more focused on their own safe-
ty.
2. I have learned to ap-
preciate the people around me
especially those who are strug-
gling with the situation of the
country. I joined groups that vol-
unteered to raise funds to help
many families in need of support.
Employees who have lost their
jobs and salaries as well as front-
liners who need support for their
safety are the ones I make sure to
share with the help I can.
3. Family is everything.
This pandemic gave me a great
chance to reconnect with my
family because for a long time
I was busy with so many things
like teaching and studying. I
spent more time with them.
4. Value our health.
Our hard work is worthless if we
neglect our health. Our life is a
blessing from God so he alone
has the right to take it back.
Let us use our lives in the most
meaningful and best we can for
ourselves and our neighbors
5. Live calmly, without
haste. Everything is simple. I’m
taking one day at a time while
protecting my inner peace. Hope
you do too.
You see, it is not only you who
faces so many challenges.
Everyone has been affected but
there is no reason to
endure these problems.
 Hindi lahat ng Selda
features
ay may Bilanggo
Jimmy S. Catiquista, Jr. Principal I
VOL X
No. 01
“ Kaya sa aking muling pagtapak,
dinagdagan ko na ang mga bala
ko para makamit ang tagumpay sa
pag-aaral.
A t sa lahat ng selda higit pa sa karanasan ang kaya
mong ituo.
Matapos ang humigit kumulang dalawang taon,
nagbukas muli ang apat na sulok na dating nagku-
long saking murang isipan.
Hindi nalalayo sa karaniwan ang kinalakhan kong selda.
Mainit, madalas siksikan, maingay ngunit maraming ku-
wento.
Hindi ko tiyak kung bakit, ngunit sa pagbubukas
ng kaniyang pintuan at tarangkahan ay hindi ko maiwasang
magtatalon sa tuwa at pananabik, ngunit sa pagkaka-alala ko,
walang dapat ipagdiwang sa pagiging preso o di kaya sa pag-
kakakulong.
Pero sa totoo lang, ito ang pagkakataon at panahong kay tagal
kong hinintay, ipinagdasal at higit na pinakaaabangan- ang
muling makulong sa silid ng walang katapusang karunungan;
ang silid-aralan, ang paaralan at ang mayapos ang mga aklat
na nagsisilbi kong sasakyan.
Marso ng 2020 ng mag-umpisang mawalay ako sa
kinagisnan kong paraan ng pag-aaral. Walang paggising at
paggayak ng maaga para hindi maunahan ng batingting sa
daan, walang mga alikabok na dapat pagpagin o punasan,
walang pisarang dapat burahin,walang mga halamang dapat
diligan at walang klasrum na dapat linisn bago magsimula
ang aralin. Bagkus ang kaharap ko ay ilang pirasong papel na
tinatawag nilang modules, isa lamang sa mga learning mo-
dalities ng Department of Education bilang pansamantalang
hakbangin maipagpatuloy lamang ang edukasyon habang
gumagawa ng paraan para makabalik sa face to face learning.
Mahirap, pero kinaya. Pinilit. Iniraos. Kahit na may
mga pagkakataong kailangan kong umakyat ng bubong
makahanap lamang ng signal para sa aming class discussion
ay ginawa ko. Makailang ulit rin akong nangutang para la-
mang sa load dahil paniwala ko, lahat ng sakripisyong gagaw-
in ko ay magbubunga rin ng maganda sa oras na makapagta-
pos ako ng aking pag-aaral.
Ano ba naman ang kaunting pagpapagal kumpara sa
magandang bukas na naghihintay sa akin. Sa dami ng dahilan
para sumuko, tinapatan ko lahat ng yaon ng determinasyon at
pagtitiwala- sa Diyos at sa aking kakayahan.
Unang linggo ng Marso rin nitong taon nang maibalita na
kasama ang aming lalawigan sa may pahintulot upang mag-
balik ang face to face classes, bunga ng kami ay nasa Alert
Level 1 na, isa ako sa mga mag-aaral na boluntaryong nag-
parehistro para makibahagi. Bagaman may kaunting alinlan-
gan, binuo naman ang loob ko ng mga guro naming buong
tapang na tinanggap ang hamon ng pandemiya. Ipinagkakati-
wala ko ang aking kaligtasan sa kanilang mga kamay kasabay
ang mahigpit na pagsunod sa mga alituntuning pangkalu-
sugan o safety protocols na kanilang pinatutupad katuwang
ang aming barangay.
Kaya sa aking muling pagtapak, dinagdagan ko na
ang mga bala ko para makamit ang tagumpay sa pag-aaral.
Bukod sa mga papel at panulat ay nakasukbit din sa akin ang
facemask at alcohol bilang aking kalasag. Sa harap ng hindi
nakikitang kalaban, tiwala ako sa tibay ng aking baluti at mga
kakampi sa loob ng paaralan. At sa bawat bukas ng pahina ng
mga libro sabay sabay naming susuungin ang napakaraming
paglalakbay at tutuklasin ang walang katapusang mundo ng
pagkatuto dahil tanging edukasyon lamang ang susi sa kaun-
laran.
Susi sa isang panibagong pintuang kasunod ng
paborito kong selda- paraisong puno ng aral, kagandahang
asal at kuwento ng pagsusumikap at ng mas marami pang
tagumpay. Hindi lahat ng selda may bilanggo, mayroon ring
mga nangangarap tulad ko.
 HINDI HADLANG
ANG EDAD
SA EDUKASYONG
HINAHANGAD
N
oong ikaw ay bata pa,lumaki ka sa libro ng Abakada..
iyong tipong may katabi pang pamalo ni inay mab-
igkas mo lang ang pa-ra-sa-ta-o-wa-ya ,ngunit ilang
taon ka nga ba nang ikaw ay matutong bumigkas ng
ABAKADA? Malamang ang iyong edad ay tatlo o apat na ta-
ong gulang pa lamang,musmos na musmos ngunit sa galing
at talento ikaw ay laging nakikipagtuos.
Anim na taong gulang ang wastong edad ng mga grade one
student, ngunit papaano kung sa gulang mong katorse ay
nasa grade one ka pa rin? Mag-aaral ka pa ba? O mahihiya ka
at tatalikuran ang eskwela?
Sa kabataang tulad ni Michelle Marave, hindi kailanman naging
hadlang ang pagkakaroon ng kapansanan at pagiging matan-
da ang gulang upang pumasok sa paaralan at maging estudy-
ante ng grade one,kakikitaan ang bata ng determinasyon at
pagsisikap na makapagtapos ng pag-aaral at matupad ang
kaniyang pangarap.
Nang bumulaga pandemyang kinakaharap ng mundo na na-
kaapekto sa maraming tao ay naapektuhan rin ang sistema
ng edukasyon na siyang ikinalungkot ng batang si Michelle
ngunit sa kabilang banda ay nagbigay ng kapanatagan sa loob
niya dahil sa taglay na ring kapansanan at sa edad na malayo
kumpara sa kasabayan niyang mag-aaral sapagkat maikukubli
nito sa likod ng modyul ang takot at pangamba na makutya ng
mga magiging kamag-aral niya.
Pangungutya, panlalait, pang-aaway ang kadalasang prob-
lema ni Michelle,katunayan ay lahat nang iyan ay kaniyang
naranasan noong una siyang pumasok sa eskwela pero lagi
namang to the rescue ang Super Ma’am niyang si Ma’am Ave-
nix Magno.
“Si Madam lagi niyang pinagsasabihan mga kaklase ko na wag
akong awayin” ani Michelle ng siya ay kapanayamin sa kanil-
Rowena Mendez, Principal II
Guisguis National High School
“Isa…. Dalawa……..
Tatlo, hulaan mo kung
sino ako”
ang tahanan malapit sa Guisguis NHS.
Unang nag-aral si Michelle sa Don Marcelo Elementary ngunit
sa layo nito at sa pagiging salat sa pinansiyal na pangangailan
ay tumigil siya sa pag-aaral, dahil maging ang mismong ina
niya na ngayon ay iniwan na rin sila ng kaniyang ama ay hina-
hadlangan siyang pumasok sa eskwela.
“ Sabi ni Mama wag na raw akong mag-aral tulong nalang ako
sa bahay, kaya nga nong umalis siya nag-aral ako ulit, masaya
kasi sa school marami kang kalaro, tapos tinuturuan pa ka-
ming magbilang at magsulat, kaso ngayon puro modyul ako
lang ang nagsasagot tapos minsan chinecheck ako ni madam
Magno sa bahay tuwing madadaanan niya ako pag-uuwi siya
sakanila” masayang pahayag ni Mitch.
Hindi alintana ang kuba niyang pangangatawan at ng katorse
niyang gulang upang maging produktibong mag-aaral siya ng
Guisguis Elementary School, “Maasahan siya sa lahat ng bagay
saka nakakatuwa yung kagustuhan niyang mag-aral” ika ni
Avenix Magno, tagapayo ni Mitch.
“Super Ma’am ko yun si Ma’am Magno, gusto ko siyang gaya-
hin pag laki ko,saka gusto kong maging nurse para magamot
ko si papa pag may sakit siya,saka lalo ngayon may covid gusto
tumulong mag-inject ng gamot para mawala na ang covid,ta-
“
HINDI HADLANG PAGE 36
“Super Ma’am ko yun si Ma’am Magno, gusto ko
siyang gayahin pag laki ko,saka gusto kong maging
nurse para magamot ko si papa pag may sakit siya,-
saka lalo ngayon may covid gusto tumulong
mag-inject ng gamot para mawala na ang covid,
tapos para makapasok na ulit masaya kasing mag
a-ba-ka-da para paglaki ko marunong na akong
magbasa”

FROM PAGE 35 HINDI HADLANG
pos para makapasok na ulit masaya
kasing mag a-ba-ka-da para pagla-
ki ko marunong na akong magba-
sa” wika ni Mitch na mararamda-
man mo talaga ang kahalagahan
ng pag-aaral at kagustuhan niyang
mag-aral.
Hindi biro ang makipagsabayan sa
mga batang maliliit sa gulang niya,
mahirap makisama pero nagtitiyaga
siya palagi siyang nakararamdam
ng panliliit sa sarili lalo tuwing may
online class sila ngunit patuloy si-
yang ngumingiti sa kabila ng lahat
ng ito. Iyong tipong gusto mong
tumawa kahit na ansakit sakit na
ng pinagdadaanan mo. Ganiyan si
Mitch. Grade one na maituturing
features
ngunit daig pa ang College graduate sa kani-
yang positibong pag-iisip.
Huli man niyang natutuhan ang abakada,hin-
di naman nahuli ang kaniyang pagpapahalaga
sa edukasyon na pundasyon ng progreso at
tagumpay ng tao. Katorse na si Abakada ….huli
na para sa edad niya… pero hindi niya ibababa
ang bandera … a-ba-ka-da e- ga- ha tatapusin
niya ito hanggang sa “pa-ra-sa-ta-o-wa-ya”.
Ika nga ng DepEd, para sa bata, para sa
bayan, sulong edukalidad. Sa Kabila ng
pandemya nandito tayo at sama-sama. VOL X
No. 01
Kuba man ang pangangatawan, na-
tatanging katangian pa rin ang sakan-
ya’y nananahan, Tatak Michelle Marave
Yan.

literary
VOL X
Guro sa Panahon
No. 01

ng New Normal
Abakada
ROMMEL REYES QUINSAY, Teacher III
Pamatawan Integrated School
MARITES MORANA, HEAD TEACHER I
GUISGUIS NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
G-abay sa loob ng silid-aralan
Aklat ng pangarap ay dala, ito ang aking umpisa Ama’t ina sa paaralan
Sa salat na pamumuhay, puso ko’y puno ng pag-asa Tagapaghubog ng kaalaman kaninuman
Ang lampara ng pagsisikap at tiyaga ay sisindihan Handang umagapay upang ikaw ay hindi maiwan.
Pudpod na lapis ng kaalaman ay tatasahan.
U-unahin ang kapakanan ng mga mag-aaral
BAlakid na nakaharang ay isasantabi muna Lalo na ngayong panahon ng new normal
Luha ng hirap at pagod ay hindi na alintana Kabi-kabilang webinars, paggawa ng modyuls at video
Hagdan ng pangarap na matalim ay aakyatin lesson ay lalahukan
Maabot lamang ang pangarap na mistulang bituin. Dedikado’t maaasahan, di sumusuko sa laban.

KAyrami man ng lubak, bagyo ng pagsubok ay malakas R-esponsable’t walang kapaguran

Ang pag-asang tagumpay makakamit rin bukas Iyan ang mga gurong di matatawaran ang kasipagan
Karagatan ng sakripisyo, alon ngmagandang bukas ang Panahon man ng pandemya’y sila’y laging andyan
sukli Tagumpay sa bahagri ng pagsusumikap nagkukubli. Gagawin ang lahat para sa bata, para sa bayan.

DAan tungo sa pangarap ay lubhang matarik at masukal O-ras ay mahalaga sa kanila

Baon ko sa pag-abot nito ang kalasag ng pagdarasalS Kahit nasa bahay iniisip ang bawat isa
Sa pag-abot ng pangarap ang mahina ay talo Maihatid lamang ang kaalaman at serbisyo
Ang magpatuloy at magtiis hanggang dulo Yan ang mga guro handang magsakripisyo.
 37
literary Ang Bagong
Mundo
JOHN M. ABORDO EdD, Principal III
San Marcelino NHS
Masayang naghahabulan sa parang at daan
Wala na tayong magagawa
Gumigising ng maaga para pumasok lang ng
Hindi na tayo makakawala
paaralan
VOL X Malayang namamasyal kung saan-saan
Sa mundong tayo na mismo ang gumawa
No. 01 Dahil sa katigasan ng ating mukha
Mga nakasanayang gawain bago dumating ang
kalaban.
Bawal lumabas, pero nasaan ka?
Hindi ba’t nasa kalsada kakwentuhan ang kabarkada?
News feed sa facebook ay napuno
Ang ganang akin lang naman, panay tayo hinaing
Mga nahawa sa Covid-19 ay hindi na mapahinto
Kailan magbabalik normal na buhay natin
Halos buong mundo ay nagluluksa
Sadyang itong virus na ito at walang pinipili.
Ito na ang bagong “normal” ng buhay natin
Ibayong pag-iingat na lang ang dapat gawin
Mapa-bata, matanda, mayaman man o dukha.
Simulan mo na ang pagbuo ng bagong mundo
Halos dalawang taon na rin ang lumipas
Ang palaging pagsusuuot ng takip sa mukha mo
Nang bagong mundo’y itinatag
Pagsusuuot ng “face mask” isinabatas
Wala man ang dating meron tayo
“social distancing ipinatupad sa lahat.
Pero sisimulan natin ang bagong mundo
Nang may pag-asa at pananampalataya
Sabi nga ito na ang bagong mundo
Kasama ang ating mga mahal sa buhay.
Ang mundo kung saan lahat ng tao’y
kailangang magsuot ng facemask
Upang maligtas sa sakit na ito.

Gurong Magulang
sa Panahon ng Kadawyan
GUILLERMA AGOJA CUDAL, Administrative Officer II
Castillejos National High School

Panahon ng pandemya, panahon ng kadawyan,

Sistema ng edukasyon, nanibago ang kabataan.
Modular, online, bagong Sistema sa paaraalan,
Guro’t magulang, magkakampi sa paghahatid kaalaman.

Hangad ng magulang, mag-aaral ayaw maiwan,

Magulang ang kasama, modyul at gadget ang katuwang.
Gabay ng gurong magulang, edukasyon ng mga anak ay makakamtan.
Pursigidong mag-aaral, pandemya’y hindi makahaharang.

Gurong magulang. . . magulang na guro,

Hindi alintana ang pagal na katawan sa pagtuturo.
Patuloy ang hangarin maging ang tungkulin,
Masiguro sa kabataan na may kaalamang babaunin.

Nais lamang niya na mapunan ang kakulangan,

Sa binagong sistema ng edukasyon sa kadaywan.
Hangad na makamtan, inaasam na kaalaman.
Magulang bilang buhay na daluyan ng minimithing katagumpayan.

I am a Teacher
ANNE KAYE P. MARTINEZ, Teacher III
Candelaria School of Fisheries
I am a teacher,
I am not a doctor,
To cure you of your sick and ills,
But I hope, with you,
I can cure what our world feels.
I am a teacher,
I am not an engineer,
Who will build you sturdy houses, nor a palace for kings,
But I do, hope in time, you’ll realize,
I can give you roof to shelter your mind.
I am a teacher,
I am not a nurse,
Who will care for you when you are sick,
But I hope with this piece,
I can give a place not to be weak.
I am a teacher,
I am not an architect,
Who will draw you an excellent blueprint,
Makinig sa Akin
LYRA CASTILLO HONRADO, Senior High School Teacher III
New Taugtog National High School
Makinig sa aking sasambitin
‘Pagkat suson na
Ang suliranin ng bayang sinilangan.
Maging ang pag-aarimuhunan
ay guwang at hungkag na malamang.
Makinig sa aking impormasyon,
‘Pagkat bantog at palasak
ang apeksyong nakapepeste ng buhay.
Dumatal sa milyon ang nagpositibo
At ang nakahimlay na ay ilang daang libo.
Makinig sa aking abug-abog,
‘Pagkat patong-patong na rin
Ang hinakdal at akusa.
Lumabas nang malalinan
Nang makilatis ang tatag ng katawan.
Makinig sa aking hinawa
Maging puso ko’ y may dawis
Hindi na makaya ang pag-uumyak nitong dibdib,
Ibig ng magbanat ng buto,
38
literary
But I hope, with my strength
I can show you of what you are meant
I am a teacher,
I am not a marketing analyst, VOL X
Nor a manager of a firm,
No. 01
But I hope, with this wisdom,
I can manage you to soar and learn.
I am a teacher,
I am not wealthy for earthly stones and gems,
Nor could I be famous with just my meek face,
But I do know, and you all know,
Without a teacher, one cannot grow or go someplace.
I am a teacher,
And a teacher I will always be.
One you can turn to, whatever that may be,
That’s who I am, and I’m mostly proud to be,
For simple as I am,
But I affect eternity.
‘Pagkat huli na ang bigas na isasaing.
Makinig sa akin at ibig
Nang sumabog itong aking dibdib.
Gusto ng humiyaw at nagpupuyos na sa galit
‘Pagkat katunggali ay nagkukubli
At ang lunas ay hirap pang nasisilip.
Makinig sa aking payo
Dumito na muna sa tahanan
At kunting tiis pa at tumahan
Magwawakas din ang suliraning pinapasan,
Makakaraos din sa tulong at awa ng Maykapal.
Makinig sa aking tula,
Pagkat tunay na dakila at kahanga-hanga,
Ang iyong ginagawa para sa bansa.
Patuloy kang lumalaban at umaasa
At ‘di dumadagdag sa kasalukuyang problema.
 39
literary
Leadership In Pandemic
ILYNE M. MAYA, Principal II
Almasin/ Canaynayan Elementary School
L- eads his people towards the goals and objec-
tives of the school
E- nergetic and pro active in developing school’s
VOL X programs, projects and
No. 01 activities,
A- ssists, guides and directs his people to be more
productive and achieve
more
D- iligently find ways on how to solve problems
being encountered in every
situation
E- xecute plans in harmonious way and collects
the effort of everybody
R- espectful and tries to understand his people’s
concern with love and compassion
S- trengthen the weaknesses of the school and
encourage active participation and collaboration;
H- onesty and transparency is being shown to win
the trust and support of all.
I- nspire, instruct and motivate his people to bring
out their best in every task they need to perform;
P- atient, diligent and passionate in making
changes and difference to improve the present
situation.
Suhay
LYRA CASTILLO HONRADO, Senior High School Teacher III
New Taugtog National High School
Mainam sana ang magpara ng buhay,
Kung ang namamahala’y buong puso ang suhay.
Sapat na ayuda para sa ating pamumuhay,
Mayroong sapat at hindi hungkag na hanapbuhay.
Mabuti sana ang abot kayang mga bilihin,
Pasok sa bawat pamilyang laang-gugulin.
Hindi problema ang daluyan ng salapi,
Pagkat kwarta’y sapat hanggang sa salinlahi.
Paayon sana ang masaganang pagkain,
Tuwi-tuwina ang pamilya’y may ihahain.
Hindi salat sa mga tanim na aanihin,
‘Pagkat may ganti lahat ng pagal na danasin.
I- nvolves everybody in the school in making plans,
programs, goals and decisions;
N- obody in the group is feeling left behind.
P- rioritize the needs, concern and welfare of his
people;
A- ctive in making improvements and innovations for
the benefits of all;
N- ever stops learning new things and techniques to
be more effective and efficient inevery endeavor;
D- escent and democratic in his ways of treating
diverse personalities;
E- xtend his heart, head and hand to reach out for his
people’s needs.
M- onitors and evaluates regularly the status and
current situation;
I- mprovementis always possible and positive out-
come is always reachable;
C- ooperation and collaboration of effort leads to
successful achievement and happiness of all.
Bumulusok sana ang swerte sa pamilya.
Hirap at gutom, sa mga anak ay ‘wag ng danasin pa.
Sa halip, maihatid ang umaapaw na grasya,
Tiyak wala ng paghihirap at hatid ay pag-asa.
Tunay ngang talihabso ng pamilya’y mawawaglit
Kung ang lahat ay mag-apoyong pilit.
Walang damdaming may lumbay at makilid,
Bagkus ginhawa sa pamilya’y walang patid.

42
SOLAR FARM
SA PALAUIG,
solusyon di lang sa Climate Change
kundi sa Bulsa na rin Aprile Pacheco
“
Nagbigay trabaho ang pagtatayo ng planta
sa mga residente ng Palauig na nagkaroon
ng mahigit isang taon dahil sa konstruksyon
pati narin ang mga residente sa mga kalapit
bayan nito.
Sa pagtaas ng kuryente, maraming netizens ang kanda ugaga
sa pagpopost sa social media, umaaray at dumadaing dahil sa
di-napipigilang pagtaas ng bayarin.
Ngunit sa gitna ng mainit na
suliraning ito, siguradong ma-
papawi unti-unti ang mga hi-
nanaing ng sambayanan, sa
pagkakaroon ng 63-megawatt
Gigasol solar farm.
Itinayo noong ang
Fast, Free, and Easy Way to pinakaunang power plant con-
Prevent COVID 19: The Vaccine struction ng ACenergy sa Pa-
lauig, Zambales na binubuo ng
Rovielyn S. Castillo 156,520 solar panel.
Teacher I
Calapandayan Integrated School May lawak na 64 ektarya ang
Gigasol powerplant na nag-
With the data that was given by the World Health Or- simulang mag-operate noong
ganization, the total number of cases for COVID 19 in Abril. Ito ay upang punan ang
the Philippines whipped high as 3,067,163. This num- power defieciency sa grid
ber of cases is highly relevant to the decisions of many lalo na tuwing “summer” da-
to take vaccination seriously. hil hindi sapat ang supply ng
kuryente kumpara sa demand.
These data must be taken seriously. For it gives the Ayon kay Engineer Jun Jhive
public a warning that the COVID 19 is a grave-threaten- Sefil, isa sa mga inhenyerong
ing virus that can kill many more people as they remain parte ng pagbuo ng Gigasol
unvaccinated. Palauig sa isang online inter-
view, ang layunin ng renew-
There are several things that people need to know able energy powerplant na ito
about the COVID 19 vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines are ay para limitahan ang carbon
FAST PAGE 44
science
VOL X
No. 01
emission upang mabawasan
ang epekto ng climate change.
Ang mga solar panels ayon
kay Sefil ay nakalilikha at na-
kakapagprodyus ng koryente
mula lamang sa araw at hindi
mula sa tubig o hangin. Naka-
tutulong din ang paggamit ng
mga ito sa pag-iwas ng pag-
sira ng mga natural habitats.
Kung ikukumpara sa paggamit
ng kable-kableng kawad, mas
malinis at ligtas ito.
“Isang katangian o kakayahan
pa solar panels ay ang paglim-
ita ng paglala ng Climate
Change dahil hindi ito nagbu-
buga ng Carbon Dioxide” dag-
dag pa ni Sefil.
Nagbigay trabaho ang pagta-
tayo ng planta sa mga residen-
te ng Palauig na nagkaroon ng
mahigit isang taon dahil sa
konstruksyon pati narin ang
mga residente sa mga kalapit
bayan nito.
SOLAR FARM PAGE 43
 DGFAHS on the Go: Vaccine Awareness and Government
Programs with Regards to COVID-19
43
Mark Anthony O. Obispo,
Teacher III
science
JFK SPED Center
VOL X
No. 01
The rural nurse administers Vaccination to the learn-
ers of Don Getulio Feria Arindaeng High School in
the recently concluded Vaccine Awareness Day Held
at DGFAHs school grounds on september 27 2021
FROM PAGE 42 SOLAR FARM
Nagkaroon din ng dagdag na
income ang barangay Salaza
at ang bayan ng Palauig sa
pamamagitan ng tax na ibina-
bayad ng Acenergy.
Hindi naman matatawaran
ang galak ni Sefil ng siya ay ta-
nungin kung ano ang kaniyang
pakiramdam na siya ay bahagi
ng napakalaking proyekto na
To enhance the knowledge and skills of teachers, parents, students, and other stake-
holders in the new normal setting of education amidst the challenges brought by the
COVID-19 Pandemic, the vaccine awareness day was made possible thru the partner-
ship of the school under the leadership Dr. Angeli I. Apostol School Principal I of Don
Getulio Feria Arindaeng Highschool and The Local Government Unit Of San Felipe
Zambales Headed By Hon. Leo John M. Farrales at Don Getulio Feria Arindaeng High
School , September 27.
The Vaccine awareness day plemented the smooth flow
is under the flagship pro- of the activity while adhering
gram of the the School to the standard health pro-
Disaster Risk Reduction tocol. “Since the school is
Management (SDRRM) En- near to the residential area,
titled: “School-Based Webi- we can observe that there
nar on How to Mitigate the are people who are very
Spread of COVID-19 in our disciplined enough to lis-
Home.” ten to the programs being
The Vaccine Awareness Day discussed by our municipal
highlights the orientation health physician”-Dr. Ange-
of parents and students lie I. Apostol School Principal
specially those parents DGFAHS.
of the indigenous peo-
ple, to be encourage so “This just the beginning of
that they will be protected the program of our school
from the COVID-19 -Virus. for the betterment of our
The other objective of the learners with regards to Di-
said program is to provide saster Risk Response and
awareness on the aspect Safety protocol.” Annaliza A.
of Vaccination and oth- Alvez Teacher III-DGFAHS.
er Government Programs
with regards to Health
Standard Protocol; This was The SDRRM and School
explained by the Municipal Health Coordinators of the
Health Physician of San Fe- Don Getulio Feria Arindaeng
lipe Dr. Salome F. Arindo- High School Mr. Mark An-
que, MD FPPS. thony O. Obispo and Jocelyn
P. Abuyo have successfully
The total participant in the completed the post evalua-
said activity exceeds the tion of the activity and pre-
expected total of 72 stu- sented it to the school head
dents and faculty together for filing and enhancement
with their parents. Hence, of the activities.
the school successfully im-
ito , aniya “Masaya ako dahil
nakasama ako sa pinakaunang
power plant consctruction ng
ACenergy at naibihagi ko dito
ang aking kaalaman sa larangan
ng electrisidad lalong lalo na sa
renewable energy” .
Ninanais ng ACenergy ang
1000 megawatts na renewable
energy (solar plant and wind
turbine) mula 2020 hanggang
2025.

science
44
Casseopia Arwin Vidal, Grade 3-SSES learner, tells
the story of “ The Leopard and the Ant” in Story
Telling contest in English.
VOL X Linasineans
No. 01
head onto Sci-Math-
Reading Camp
Allien P. Bersano
The learners of Linasin Elementary School (ES) under the limited face-to-face classes
joined the 4-day Science-Math-Reading Camp entitled “Project SMILE” held in Linasin
ES, San Marcelino, Zambales on May 24-27, 2022 with the theme “Collaborating Science,
Math and reading for learner’s development”.
The participants of this activity were select
learners from kindergarten to grade six, par-
ticularly five learners coming from the SSES
classes and one representative from the reg-
ular classes. The participants were distributed
into three teams named Team Curiosity, Team
Honesty and Team Serendipity. The teachers,
including the Practice Teachers, were also dis-
tributed into these three teams to lead the
campers in every activity.
The Sci-Math-Reading camp included activi-
“ The very thing that
ties like Sci-Math Quiz Bee, Sci-Math Trail,
Science Poster Making Contest, Spelling
Bee, Story Telling Contests, a Basic Math
Competition sponsored by Linasin ES
stakeholder, Linasin Presbyterian Church,
led by Korean Pastor Sehyoung Choi and
Instructional Materials (IM) Exhibit show-
casing Science, Math and Reading instruc-
tional materials hand-made by the teachers
and parents of Linasin Elementary School.
The activities were distributed into the
4-day camp, which started with a
ribbon cutting, which signifies the
opening of the exhibit. The IM ex-
hibit is composed of grade level
booth showcasing IMs in Science,
Math and Reading for each grade
level. These IMs were made by the
Dr. Ma. Lilibeth Bacolor, Division
Education Program Supervisor in
Filipino with Dr. Evelyn Tarraro,
Division Education Program Super-
visor in Science, try and check In-
structional Material (IM) exhibited
in Grade 3 Booth.
FROM PAGE 42 FAST
effective at helping protect
against severe disease and
death from variants of the
virus that causes COVID-19
currently circulating, includ-
ing the Delta variant. If you
are fully vaccinated you can
resume many activities that
you did before the pandemic,
but you should wear a mask
indoors in public if you are in
an area of substantial or high
transmission to maximize
protection from the Delta
variant and possibly spread
it to others. You may have
side effects after vaccination.
These are normal and should
go away in a few days.
one should be incul-
cated in mind is that
if vaccines are free,
so is the prevention
of spreading the
COVID 19. The cure is
just a step away, just
get a vaccine.
There may be questions
about the effectiveness of
these vaccines. The import-
ant thing is that anybody
must be vaccinated before
the pandemic comes to its
highest peak of infecting the
people.
What’s good about having a
vaccine is that the percent-
age of transmission from
person to person will be re-
duced. Also, by having a vac-
cine, the mortality rate can be
put into a nap.
The Philippine Government is
providing free and accessible
vaccines for all its people. The
very thing that one should
be inculcated in mind is that
if vaccines are free, so is the
prevention of spreading the
COVID 19. The cure is just a
step away, just get a vaccine.
 the second day. Sci-Math

science
45
Trail was composed of five
Dr. Evelyn Tarraro, sites, strategically located in
Division Education
Program Supervisor various spots inside Linasin
in Science tries one of ES campus, where in every
site, the participants met
the Instructional Ma-
terial (IM) exhibited in
Grade 3 Booth. challenges in Science and
Math, which they need to ac-
complish in 20 minutes.

“
teachers and parents of each
grade level.
The camp ended with the
closing program on the
fourth day. Dr. Evelyn Tar-
rayo, Education Program
Supervisor in Science and
Dr. Ma. Lilibeth Bacolor, Ed-
ucation Program Specialist in
Filipno visited the exhibit and
joined the closing program.
Dr. Romeo Fastidio, Public
Schools District Supervisor
of San Marcelino, visited the
exhibit on the third day of
the camp, together with Dr.
Bacolor.
On the first day, four camp-
ers from each team joined
in the Sci-Math Quiz Bee
and the rest of the campers
joined the Basic Math Com-
The Sci-Math-Reading camp
included activities like Sci-
Math Quiz Bee, Sci-Math
Trail, Science Poster Making
Contest, Spelling Bee, Story
Telling Contests, and a Basic
Math Competition.
petition. In the Basic Math
Competition, a participant is
given a worksheet applicable
for his/her competency level.
The participant must be able
to answer all the items in the
worksheet at a given time.
The answers were checked,
and group scores were tal-
lied and ranked for the win-
ner.
Grade four to grade six
campers from each team
joined the Sci-Math Trail on
Representatives from grade
one to grade three compet-
ed in the poster making con-
test. The rest of the campers
learned the importance of
pets’ wellbeing through a
movie viewing activity.
Spelling Bee for grade four
to six and the Story Telling
Contest for the grade one to
three happened on the third
day of the camp. The spelling
bee was a group competition
where the participants com-
peted into three-word cate-
gories, easy, moderate and
difficult.
The story telling contest re-
quires one participant for
Filipino and one for English
from each grade level from
grades one to three. The
winners also presented their
VOL X
No. 01
story telling piece on the
closing program.
All the winners from the var-
ious activities were tallied
and ranked. Team A won the
Sci-Math Quiz Bee. Team A
also won in the Basic Math
Competition. Team B won in
the poster making contest
while Team A won in the Sci-
Math Trail. Team B won in the
Group Spelling Bee. Team
A was hailed as the overall
champion.

SYRINGE: SAVING LIVES, PROTECTING INDIVIDUALS

science editorial
ANNA LIZA A. ALVEZ
Don Getulio Feria Arindaeng High School
Center for Disease Control and
Protection now recommends
that people whose immune sys-
tems are compromised moder-
ately to severely should receive
an additional dose of COVID-19
vaccine after an initial 2-dose
series. Widespread vaccination
is a critical tool to help stop
the pandemic. (https://www.
cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019n-
cov/vaccines/keythingstoknow.
html)
COVID-19 vaccina-
tions are efficient in helping to
prevent against severe sickness
and death caused by currently
circulating versions of the virus
that causes COVID-19, includ-
ing the Delta variant.
Nowadays, vaccines
for COVID-19 have been prov-
en effective, developed and are
being distributed to members
of the public, it is essential for
people to realize the benefits of
the COVID-19 vaccines and why
they greatly offset mild poten-
“
tial adverse effects or problem
that may be correlated.
The permutation of As a result, a single
getting vaccinated and fol- syringe may save
lowing health protocols and one’s lives and fortu-
sanctions to protect yourself nately protect every
and others delivers the best individual. So, it
protection from COVID-19. The
pandemic will put a stop to the
makes a broad sense
virus’s expanding harmful im-
to get the vaccine.
pact on education, the econo-
my, health care, and numerous
other activities of a functioning
society.
The
DepEd
Zambales
Journal
The Official Publication of the
Schools Division of Zambales

Volume X No. 1
JANUARY - JUNE 2022
The
DepEd
Zambales
Journal
The Official Publication of the
Schools Division of Zambales