Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara spearheaded the 22nd Executive Committee (EXECOM) meeting this Thursday, focusing on crucial updates and initiatives aimed at streamlining the administrative burden on teachers
Manila, Philippines –The meeting highlighted significant progress in hiring Administrative Officers, with a substantial increase in open positions planned for this year, aligned with the 2025 budget approved by President Bongbong Marcos.
Secretary Angara's unwavering commitment to implementing reforms within the Department was a central theme of the meeting. Despite his extensive responsibilities, both within and outside the DepEd, he consistently ensures his presence at the regular EXECOM meetings, underscoring the importance he places on these crucial discussions.
The meeting addressed a range of critical issues impacting the education sector. A key focus was the ongoing efforts to reduce the administrative workload on teachers, a long-standing concern that has consistently hampered their ability to focus on their primary role: teaching and mentoring students. The DepEd recognizes that excessive administrative tasks detract from the quality of education and contribute to teacher burnout. The strategic hiring of Administrative Officers is a direct response to this challenge, aiming to redistribute administrative responsibilities and free up teachers to dedicate more time to their core duties.
The increased number of Administrative Officer positions, made possible by the recently approved budget, represents a significant investment in improving the working conditions of teachers nationwide. This initiative is expected to have a profound positive impact on teacher morale and job satisfaction, ultimately leading to a more effective and efficient education system. The specifics of the hiring process, including qualifications, application procedures, and timelines, will be publicly announced by the DepEd in the coming weeks.
Beyond the administrative reforms, the EXECOM meeting also covered a range of other important topics, including updates on the implementation of the K-12 curriculum, the ongoing efforts to improve access to quality education in underserved areas, and initiatives aimed at enhancing teacher training and professional development. Detailed reports on these matters will be made available to the public through official DepEd channels.
Secretary Angara emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in all DepEd operations. He reiterated the Department's commitment to working closely with teachers, parents, and other stakeholders to ensure that the education system effectively serves the needs of all Filipino students. He stressed that the reforms being implemented are not merely administrative changes but are fundamentally about improving the quality of education and empowering teachers to excel in their crucial roles.
The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to addressing the challenges facing the Philippine education system. The DepEd remains steadfast in its dedication to providing quality education for all Filipino children, and the initiatives discussed at the EXECOM meeting represent a significant step towards achieving this goal. The Department will continue to provide regular updates on its progress and remain transparent in its efforts to improve the lives of teachers and students across the nation. The successful implementation of these reforms will undoubtedly contribute to a brighter future for the Philippines, strengthening its human capital and ensuring its continued progress.
The government's commitment, as evidenced by the approved budget and Secretary Angara's personal dedication, signals a strong push towards a more supportive and effective education system.
Further Developments: The DepEd is expected to release a comprehensive report detailing the outcomes of the EXECOM meeting in the coming days. This report will provide a more detailed breakdown of the discussed initiatives, including specific timelines and targets for implementation. The Department will also be holding regional consultations to gather feedback from teachers and other stakeholders on the proposed reforms. This participatory approach underscores the DepEd's commitment to ensuring that its policies are responsive to the needs of those they directly impact. The ongoing dialogue and collaboration between the DepEd and its stakeholders are vital to the success of these crucial reforms. PBBM to DepEd, EDCOM II: Work together to address gaps.
DepEd and EDCOM II Strengthen Collaboration to Reform Philippine Education System
Manila, Philippines – The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) have reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative efforts in addressing critical gaps within the Philippine education system, guided by the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. This renewed partnership comes as EDCOM II unveiled its findings for Year Two, highlighting significant progress and outlining a path forward for educational reform.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara, himself a former EDCOM II Commissioner, expressed deep gratitude to Congress and EDCOM II for their unwavering support. He emphasized the crucial importance of aligning their efforts with President Marcos Jr.'s vision for a strengthened and modernized education sector. Secretary Angara's remarks followed the release of EDCOM II's Year Two report, a comprehensive document outlining key findings and recommendations.
"This is a momentous occasion – the release of the EDCOM Year 2 Report," Secretary Angara stated. "We extend our sincere thanks to the Senate, under the leadership of Senate President Chiz Escudero, for shepherding the passage of legislation recommended by EDCOM II." He specifically highlighted the significant progress made on 37 priority bills, with five already signed into law. These include landmark legislation such as the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program Law (Republic Act No. 12028) and the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act (Republic Act No. 12080).
Under Secretary Angara's leadership, DepEd has actively implemented reforms directly aligned with President Marcos Jr.'s directives and EDCOM II's recommendations. Key initiatives include the implementation of Early Procurement Activities (EPA) for essential learning resources such as textbooks and laptops. This proactive approach aims to expedite the procurement process and ensure timely delivery of vital materials to schools nationwide. Furthermore, the Department is undertaking a comprehensive review and update of its policies on textbook procurement and quality assurance, aiming to enhance the quality and relevance of learning materials.
Another significant undertaking is the revision of the Senior High School curriculum. The DepEd is streamlining the curriculum, reducing the number of subjects while simultaneously enhancing their impact. This restructuring prioritizes the development of critical skills and knowledge areas, ensuring students are better equipped for higher education and the workforce.
Addressing the persistent issue of classroom shortages, DepEd is accelerating the construction of 105,000 new classrooms. This ambitious project has commenced with a substantial 15,000-classroom package currently under development this year through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). This innovative approach leverages private sector resources to expedite the construction process and ensure the timely provision of adequate learning spaces for students.
Secretary Angara's personal experience as a former EDCOM II Commissioner lends a unique perspective to his leadership at DepEd. "Certainly, I was once part of you," he remarked, acknowledging the valuable work of EDCOM II. "The work of EDCOM is very much welcome and appreciated."
EDCOM II's Year Two report, titled "Fixing the Foundations: A Matter of National Survival," offers a detailed analysis of the priorities of the Philippine basic education system. The report provides valuable insights and lessons learned, informing the ongoing reform efforts. The commission's preface emphasizes the strong collaboration between EDCOM II and the executive branch: "We worked in lockstep with our former colleagues, Secretary Sonny Angara and Secretary Kiko Benitez, who have since taken our collective call for change to the executive branch. This year, no less than the President has also expressed his full support, personally acting on measures to ensure coordination among education agencies and emphasizing the need for greater focus on the first 1,000 days."
The collaborative efforts between DepEd and EDCOM II, bolstered by the unwavering support of President Marcos Jr., signal a significant commitment to transforming the Philippine education system. The initiatives underway represent a comprehensive approach to addressing long-standing challenges and building a more robust and equitable education system for all Filipino children. The ongoing progress and the continued collaboration between these key stakeholders offer hope for a brighter future for Philippine education. Further updates on the implementation of these reforms are expected in the coming months.
DepEd Overhauls Anti-Bullying Policy to Enhance School Safety
Manila, Philippines – The Department of Education (DepEd) announced on Thursday, February 6th, a comprehensive review of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Bullying Act, signaling a renewed commitment to creating safer and more inclusive learning environments for students nationwide. This move follows concerns regarding the effectiveness of current policies in addressing bullying incidents and promoting a culture of respect and safety within schools.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the critical need to strengthen the anti-bullying policy and ensure greater compliance across all educational institutions. "We are undertaking a thorough review of the IRR of the anti-bullying law," Secretary Angara stated, "and working to ensure significantly greater compliance, particularly focusing on the adoption of stronger, more effective policies mandated by the law."
The review process is expected to involve extensive consultation with various stakeholders, including teachers, students, parents, school administrators, and legal experts. This participatory approach aims to gather diverse perspectives and ensure that the revised IRR reflects the needs and concerns of the entire educational community. The DepEd recognizes that a successful anti-bullying policy requires the active involvement and cooperation of all stakeholders.
The current IRR, while providing a framework for addressing bullying, has faced challenges in its implementation. Reports of bullying incidents continue to surface, highlighting the need for a more robust and effective mechanism to prevent, address, and mitigate the harmful effects of bullying. The review process will address these shortcomings and aim to create a more comprehensive and enforceable policy.
Key areas of focus for the review include strengthening the definition of bullying to encompass a wider range of behaviors, improving reporting mechanisms to ensure that incidents are promptly and effectively addressed, and enhancing disciplinary measures to hold perpetrators accountable. The DepEd is also exploring the implementation of more proactive measures, such as comprehensive anti-bullying education programs and the establishment of school-based support systems for victims.
The revised IRR will likely include clearer guidelines on identifying and reporting bullying incidents, ensuring consistency in disciplinary actions across schools, and providing support services for both victims and perpetrators. The DepEd recognizes the importance of providing appropriate support to victims of bullying, including counseling and access to mental health services. Similarly, the Department aims to provide support and guidance to perpetrators to help them understand the consequences of their actions and learn more positive behaviors.
The review process is expected to take several months, with a draft of the revised IRR to be released for public consultation before finalization. The DepEd is committed to transparency and inclusivity throughout this process, ensuring that all stakeholders have the opportunity to provide input and shape the future of anti-bullying policies in the Philippines. The ultimate goal is to create a learning environment where all students feel safe, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.
The DepEd's commitment to addressing bullying is not merely a response to isolated incidents but reflects a broader commitment to fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding within schools. This initiative aligns with the Department's overall goal of providing a quality education that promotes the holistic development of students, including their social-emotional well-being. The revised IRR represents a significant step towards achieving this goal, promising a more effective and comprehensive approach to combating bullying and ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. The Department will continue to provide regular updates on the progress of the review and the timeline for implementation of the revised IRR.
In a collaborative effort to strengthen the fight against bullying in Philippine schools, the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) and the Department of Education (DepEd) are working together to swiftly revise the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013. This joint initiative underscores a renewed commitment to creating safer and more inclusive learning environments for all students.
EDCOM II announced that following a year of extensive consultations and research, it submitted its proposed revisions to the DepEd in January. These revisions aim to significantly enhance the effectiveness of the existing anti-bullying policy, addressing key shortcomings and strengthening mechanisms for prevention, intervention, and support.
The proposed revisions from EDCOM II focus on several key areas. First, EDCOM II advocates for an expanded definition of bullying to encompass a broader range of behaviors, ensuring that all forms of harassment and intimidation are adequately addressed. The current definition, some argue, is too narrow and fails to capture the nuances of modern bullying tactics, including cyberbullying and subtle forms of social exclusion.
Secondly, EDCOM II emphasizes the need for enhanced prevention and intervention programs. The commission suggests incorporating comprehensive anti-bullying education into the school curriculum, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to identify, prevent, and respond to bullying incidents. Furthermore, the proposed revisions highlight the importance of establishing effective reporting mechanisms and ensuring that all reported incidents are thoroughly investigated and addressed.
Finally, EDCOM II stresses the critical role of guidance counselors and discipline officers in addressing bullying within schools. The commission recommends ensuring adequate staffing levels and providing these professionals with the necessary training and resources to effectively support both victims and perpetrators of bullying. This includes providing victims with access to counseling and other support services and offering guidance and intervention programs for perpetrators to help them understand the consequences of their actions and develop more positive behaviors.
EDCOM II Executive Director Karol Mark Yee expressed his appreciation for the DepEd's swift response to the proposed revisions. "We thank DepEd for their quick action," Yee stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit driving this important initiative. He emphasized the speed at which the DepEd is addressing the issue: "Now, just two weeks after submitting our proposal on January 21st, we are already engaged in discussions on refining and updating our policies to address the challenges faced by our students as quickly as possible."
This collaborative approach between EDCOM II and DepEd demonstrates a strong commitment to tackling the pervasive issue of bullying in Philippine schools. The swift action taken by both organizations underscores the urgency of creating safer and more supportive learning environments for all students. The proposed revisions represent a significant step towards achieving this goal, promising a more effective and comprehensive approach to preventing and addressing bullying. The joint effort signals a renewed determination to ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe and nurturing environment, free from the fear and harm of bullying. Further updates on the progress of the IRR revision are expected in the coming weeks.
Share Add a quote from a student affected by bullying. Include information about the specific changes to the IRR. Add a section on the importance of parental involvement.
As the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) collaborate on a comprehensive revision of the Anti-Bullying Act's Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), a key focus has emerged: strengthening learner support services within schools. This shift in emphasis highlights a growing understanding of the profound impact of bullying on students' academic engagement and long-term educational outcomes.
Dr. Allan Bernardo, a member of the EDCOM II Standing Committee and Distinguished Professor at De La Salle University (DLSU), underscored the critical need for enhanced learner support during recent discussions on the IRR revision. Drawing on five collaborative studies conducted by DLSU and the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), Dr. Bernardo presented compelling evidence highlighting the significant impact of bullying on students' learning, rather than solely focusing on its mental health consequences.
"While bullying undoubtedly has an impact on mental health," Dr. Bernardo explained, "our research indicates that the substantial effects on learning are far more pronounced." He emphasized the most detrimental consequence of bullying: student disengagement. "This disengagement," he stated, "not only hinders academic performance but can also cultivate long-term educational disinterest, potentially shaping a student's trajectory for years to come." This finding underscores the need for interventions that address the root causes of disengagement and provide students with the support they need to thrive academically.
DepEd Undersecretary Filemon Ray Javier echoed these concerns, highlighting the importance of creating a supportive learning environment in accordance with President Marcos' directives and Secretary Angara's leadership. "It is of vital importance to President Marcos and Secretary Angara that our schools provide an environment conducive to learning," Undersecretary Javier emphasized. He further explained that the impact of bullying extends beyond mental and emotional well-being, significantly affecting students' learning capacities. "Updating and revising the IRR of the Anti-Bullying Act is timely and necessary to prevent bullying and foster an environment where learning can flourish," he added.
Undersecretary Javier confirmed the ongoing collaboration between DepEd and EDCOM II in developing protective mechanisms to address bullying. "DepEd and EDCOM II will continue to coordinate and work on the necessary protective mechanisms to ensure that our schools are safe and supportive learning environments for all students," he stated. This collaborative effort underscores the shared commitment to creating a more effective and comprehensive approach to preventing and addressing bullying.
EDCOM II has announced a projected completion date for the revised IRR within the next two months, with implementation slated for the start of School Year (SY) 2025-2026. This ambitious timeline reflects the urgency with which both organizations are addressing this critical issue. The revised IRR is expected to include significant enhancements to learner support services, reflecting the findings of the DLSU and PIDS studies and emphasizing the need to address the detrimental effects of bullying on students' academic engagement and overall educational success. The revised policy will likely incorporate strategies to improve early identification of bullying, provide timely interventions, and offer comprehensive support systems for both victims and perpetrators. The focus on learner support services marks a significant shift in the approach to combating bullying, recognizing the crucial link between a safe and supportive learning environment and students' academic achievement.
DepEd Bolsters Learner Protection with New Division and Focus on Guidance Counselors
Manila, Philippines – The Department of Education (DepEd) has significantly strengthened its commitment to protecting learners by establishing a dedicated Learner Rights Protection Division and prioritizing the hiring of guidance counselors. These initiatives, announced by Education Secretary Sonny Angara, represent a crucial step in ensuring the effective implementation of anti-bullying policies and the overall well-being of students nationwide.
Secretary Angara highlighted the creation of the Learner Rights Protection Division as a key component of DepEd's enhanced approach to learner safety and well-being. "We have significantly strengthened the learner protection office, increasing its capacity and ensuring that more personnel are available to assist victims of bullying and other forms of harm," Secretary Angara explained. This new division will play a vital role in monitoring the implementation of anti-bullying policies across all DepEd divisions and schools, ensuring consistent application and addressing any shortcomings in the system. The dedicated personnel within this division will be responsible for investigating reported incidents, providing support to victims, and working to prevent future occurrences.
Furthermore, Secretary Angara emphasized the importance of increasing the number of guidance counselors and similar support personnel in schools. "We are prioritizing the filling of guidance counselor and similar positions to ensure that there are sufficient individuals available to provide support and guidance to students who need it," he stated. This initiative recognizes the critical role that guidance counselors play in fostering a safe and supportive learning environment, providing students with access to counseling services, and helping them navigate the challenges they may face. The increased availability of these support personnel will enable schools to provide more comprehensive and timely assistance to students in need.
The DepEd's efforts to strengthen learner protection align closely with the recommendations of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II). According to EDCOM II, DepEd is actively working on formulating the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRRs) for Republic Acts 11036 (the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act) and 11206 (Secondary School Career Guidance and Counseling Act). This strategic alignment of policy development underscores the interconnectedness of learner well-being, mental health, and career guidance.
The DepEd plans to align the revision of the Anti-Bullying policy with the formulation of the IRRs for these two other critical measures. This integrated approach recognizes that addressing bullying requires a holistic strategy that considers students' mental health and career development. By coordinating these policy revisions, DepEd aims to create a more comprehensive and effective framework for protecting learners and promoting their overall well-being.
The establishment of the Learner Rights Protection Division, the prioritization of guidance counselor positions, and the planned alignment of policy revisions demonstrate a significant commitment to enhancing learner protection within the Philippine education system. These initiatives represent a proactive and multifaceted approach to creating safer and more supportive learning environments for all students. The DepEd's ongoing efforts to strengthen learner protection underscore its dedication to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe and nurturing environment, free from the fear and harm of bullying and other forms of abuse. The department will continue to provide updates on the progress of these initiatives and the implementation of the revised policies - calubian.com