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Online Filing of Claims for Inactive GSIS Members via GSIS Touch: A Complete Guide for Filipinos

Government service in the Philippines continues to evolve, and one of the biggest improvements today is the digitalization of benefit claims through the GSIS Touch mobile app. This update is especially helpful for inactive GSIS members—including retirees, separated employees, and former government workers now living abroad, particularly in the United States.

In this guide, we break down what claims you can file online, what benefits are not yet included, and how this change makes accessing GSIS services easier than ever. This is a comprehensive, SEO-friendly, EEAT-aligned resource tailored for Filipinos in the Philippines and the Filipino diaspora.

“Filipino user accessing GSIS Touch app to file online GSIS claims.”

What Is GSIS Touch?

GSIS Touch is the official mobile application of the Government Service Insurance System. The app gives members access to their records and allows selected claims to be filed online without visiting a GSIS branch.

This step is part of the Philippines’ digital transformation under Bagong Pilipinas—bringing faster, more efficient, and more transparent public service to Filipinos everywhere.

Who Are Considered Inactive GSIS Members?

You are classified as an inactive GSIS member if you:

  • Previously worked in Philippine government service

  • Are no longer currently employed under GSIS coverage

  • Have not yet applied for or completed your retirement or separation claims

  • May still have benefits pending under RA 8291

Many inactive members reside abroad—especially in the U.S.—making digital claim filing a major convenience.

Claims You Can Now File Online Through GSIS Touch

According to the official GSIS advisory, inactive members may file the following claims directly through the app:

1. Retirement Benefit Under RA 8291

For members who meet the required years of service and age for retirement.

2. Separation Benefit Under RA 8291

For members who did not reach the minimum years of service for full retirement but are still entitled to cash benefits.

3. Life Claim (Cash Surrender Value or Termination Value)

Covers the surrender or termination value of the life insurance policy under RA 8291.

These three claim types are currently the only ones supported online for inactive members.

Claims Not Yet Included in GSIS Touch

GSIS clarified that several benefits still require manual or in-person processing. These cannot yet be filed online:

  • Employees’ Compensation (EC)

  • Disability benefit

  • Funeral benefit

  • CLASP (Choice of Loan Amortization Schedule for Pensioners)

  • Pre-need claims

  • Maturity benefit for Regular Policy

  • Cash Surrender Value and Maturity for Optional Policy

Members should confirm their claim type before using the app.

Why This Update Matters for US-Based Filipinos

There are more than four million Filipinos living in the United States—many of whom served in the Philippine government before migrating. This update offers significant benefits:

1. No Need to Fly Back to the Philippines

You can file your GSIS claims from your phone, wherever you are in the U.S.

2. Faster and More Convenient Processing

Digital uploads reduce delays from missing forms, long lines, or incomplete papers.

3. Accessible Even for Elderly Fil-Ams

Older adults who are retired or semi-retired abroad can avoid in-person appointments.

4. Better Transparency and Tracking

Members can monitor their application status in real time—similar to U.S. platforms like Social Security or Medicare.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Claims via GSIS Touch

Below is a simple walkthrough that inactive members—especially those abroad—can follow:

Step 1: Download the App

Available on Google Play and the Apple App Store.

Step 2: Register or Log In

Use your BP number, date of birth, and email address.

Step 3: Complete Identity Verification

This may include selfie scans, ID submissions, or email confirmation.

Step 4: Choose “Claims” and Select the Claim Type

Only RA 8291 Retirement, Separation, and Life Claims are supported.

Step 5: Upload Your Documents

Ensure all files are clear and readable.

Step 6: Submit and Track Your Application

Monitoring is available directly within the app.

How GSIS Touch Supports the Philippines’ Digital Transformation

GSIS Touch showcases the principles of EEAT:

  • Expertise – Decades of managing government benefits

  • Experience – Trusted by millions of government workers

  • Authoritativeness – Official GSIS mobile service

  • Trustworthiness – Secure verification and transparent tracking

For Filipinos abroad, this enhancement brings the Philippines closer to global standards of governance.

Allowing inactive members to file Retirement, Separation, and Life Claims via GSIS Touch is a meaningful milestone in Philippine public service. It makes government benefits more accessible, especially for Filipinos abroad, and strengthens the country’s commitment to digital innovation.

As the system continues to improve, GSIS is expected to expand more online services—making government support easier and more inclusive for all Filipinos worldwide.

Extension of the 2025 Accreditation & Equivalency (A&E) Test Registration

The Department of Education (DepEd) has released an important announcement on 13 November 2025 regarding the extension of the 2025 Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) Test Registration. This update is crucial for ALS learners, Test Registration Officers (TROs), school divisions, and regional offices across the Philippines.

Due to class and work suspensions caused by Typhoon Tino and Super Typhoon Uwan, DepEd has adjusted the timelines to ensure that all activities related to the A&E Test registration and data submission can be completed smoothly and accurately.

“DepEd staff assisting Filipino learners during the extended 2025 A&E Test registration period.”

This blog post breaks down the advisory in a clear, reader-friendly format for students, educators, and parents in the Philippines.

What Is the A&E Test and Why It Matters

The Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) Test is part of DepEd’s Alternative Learning System (ALS). It provides an opportunity for out-of-school youth and adults to earn an official certification equivalent to Elementary or Junior High School level.

Passing the A&E Test opens opportunities such as:

  • Enrolling in Senior High School

  • Applying to Technical-Vocational programs

  • Gaining better employment qualifications

  • Pursuing further education

The extension period gives more learners time to complete requirements and register properly.

Why DepEd Extended the Registration Period

DepEd extended the registration schedule in response to:

  • Weather disturbances, specifically Typhoon Tino and Super Typhoon Uwan

  • Interrupted operations in several regions

  • The need for more time to validate, evaluate, and consolidate documents

This extension ensures that all learners—especially those affected by the typhoons—still have fair and equitable access to ALS services and the A&E Test.

Updated Schedule for the 2025 A&E Test Registration

Below is the simplified breakdown of the revised timeline:

1. Test Registration

  • Original: September 29 – November 21, 2025

  • Extended: November 21 – December 5, 2025

2. Submission of Enclosure Nos. 3 and 4 by Division Testing Coordinators and ALS Focal Persons

  • Original: November 24, 2025

  • Extended: November 24 – December 10, 2025

3. Submission of Validated and Consolidated Enclosure No. 4 (by RTCs and Regional ALS Focal Persons to BEA)

  • Original: November 28, 2025

  • Extended: November 28 – December 16, 2025

This extension allows all involved offices to complete their tasks accurately despite the recent disruptions.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

DepEd clarified the responsibilities of specific personnel during the registration period:

Education Program Specialist II for ALS (EPSA) / Division ALS Focal Person

Will serve as the Test Registration Officer (TRO) responsible for:

  • Registering A&E Test applicants

  • Checking and evaluating documentary requirements

Division Testing Coordinator (DTC)

  • Oversees the registration process

  • Ensures proper evaluation of documents

  • Assigns support staff when needed

Regional ALS Focal Persons and Regional Testing Coordinators (RTCs)

  • Prepare and consolidate the list of testing centers

  • Submit final counts of registrants per level

  • Submit reports to the Bureau of Education Assessment (BEA) in Excel and PDF formats through this link:

👉 https://tinyurl.com/2025AETestAllocation

Why This Advisory Matters to ALS Learners and Educators

This updated schedule is important because:

✔ More time to complete documents

Some areas experienced delays due to severe weather, making it difficult to gather or submit requirements earlier.

✔ Smoother processing for DepEd offices

Divisions and regions can properly evaluate documents without rushing.

✔ Ensures no learner is left behind

ALS is designed to be inclusive—and this extension supports that goal.

Tips for ALS Learners Registering for the 2025 A&E Test

To avoid delays, learners are encouraged to:

✔ Prepare all documentary requirements early

Typically needed: birth certificate, ID, previous school records (if any), barangay certificate, and completed forms.

✔ Visit your nearest ALS or DepEd Division Office promptly

Avoid last-minute crowds and ensure assistance is available.

✔ Keep digital copies of documents

Useful in case of typhoon-related damage or loss.

✔ Follow official DepEd announcements

Only trust information from verified DepEd and ALS channels.

The extension of the 2025 A&E Test Registration gives learners and DepEd field offices the necessary time to complete all requirements affected by recent typhoons.

This advisory reflects DepEd’s commitment to making the Alternative Learning System more accessible, resilient, and learner-centered.

If you or someone you know plans to take the A&E Test this 2025, make sure to take advantage of the new registration timeline and prepare all requirements as early as possible.

How the New CSC Education Requirements Link to Better Opportunities for First-Level Government Positions

In 2025, the Philippine Civil Service Commission (CSC) introduced an important change that reshapes the qualifications needed for first-level government jobs. Through CSC Memorandum Circular No. 07, s. 2025, supported by DepEd Memorandum No. 102, s. 2025, the government refined the education requirements to reflect the realities of today’s workforce—especially with the full implementation of the K to 12 curriculum.

Even for a U.S.-based audience—Filipino professionals, immigrants, HR practitioners, educators, and public policy followers—understanding this amendment offers valuable insight into how the Philippines is modernizing its workforce standards and strengthening government human resource systems.

“Overview of updated CSC education requirements for first-level government positions in the Philippines.”

This post breaks down the amendment, highlights what changed, and explains how these updates support a more skilled and job-ready pool of applicants.

Understanding the Updated CSC Requirements

The Civil Service Commission’s new policy updates the way applicants qualify for first-level government positions—roles commonly found in frontline public service, administrative assistance, clerical work, and technical support.

Through CSC MC No. 07, s. 2025 and CSC Resolution No. 2500229, the amendments ensure that qualifications reflect the skills and competencies developed under the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 and the K to 12 curriculum.

In short:
The Philippines now officially recognizes Senior High School (SHS) completion and TESDA-accredited vocational programs as valid pathways to government employment.

This change aligns with the country’s goal of creating more opportunities for young graduates and strengthening the nation’s technical and vocational workforce.

From Old Standards to Modernized Requirements

Previous Requirement

Traditionally, many first-level positions required:

  • Completion of two years of college; or

  • High school graduation with a relevant vocational or trade course; or

  • Possession of a TESDA National Certificate.

For decades, this system did not match the evolving basic education framework.

New CSC Standards

The new policy expands acceptable credentials to include:

  • High School Graduate (prior to 2016),

  • Completion of Grade 12/Senior High School (starting 2016),

  • Completion of Grade 10 with relevant vocational/trade course (before SHS modeling),

  • Technical-vocational courses with at least NC II certification,

  • Completion of two years of vocational or trade education.

These amendments recognize multiple learning pathways—not just traditional college routes—and validate the rigor of SHS tracks, especially Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) programs.

Linking Education to Employability

The amendment strongly links education, skills training, and employability in four key ways:

1. Recognition of Senior High School Skills

The K to 12 program was designed to ensure Grade 12 graduates are job-ready. This amendment officially acknowledges that preparedness.

2. Stronger Alignment with TESDA Certifications

Vocational credentials such as National Certificate II (NC II) now play a more central role in qualification. This benefits U.S.-based Filipinos with TESDA credentials who want employment alternatives upon returning to the Philippines.

3. Broader Access to Government Jobs

Young graduates, ALS completers, and TVL students now gain a fair chance at entry-level positions—an important step in reducing barriers to public-sector employment.

4. Support for Lifelong Learning Pathways

The policy complements the goals of EDCOM II, which reviews and strengthens the SHS curriculum to meet industry needs.

SHS Alignment Through EDCOM II Consultations

The amendment is not just an administrative update—it is backed by years of dialogue and coordination among agencies such as:

  • DepEd

  • CHED

  • TESDA

  • DOLE

  • PRC

  • Industry groups

  • EDCOM II policy teams

These consultations evaluated how SHS competencies match workplace and higher-education demands. They also examined the equivalency of SHS completion to:

  • One year of college education; or

  • NC II certification.

This ongoing evaluation is crucial for ensuring that the Philippine workforce remains globally competitive—something relevant to Filipinos abroad and international employers.

Government Accountability and Policy Implementation

The CSC’s memorandum references its constitutional mandate: to uphold meritocracy, efficiency, and accountability in public service. This amendment reinforces that mandate by ensuring:

  • Updated qualification standards

  • Transparent recruitment procedures

  • Alignment with existing civil service laws

  • Proper publication and posting in government agencies

The updated requirements take effect 15 days after June 13, 2023, or June 28, 2023.

Agencies must post the memorandum in three visible locations, and HR personnel must coordinate with the CSC Field Office to ensure compliance.

How This Change Links to the Future of Government Hiring

This updated standard is more than an internal policy—it is part of a long-term strategy to modernize the civil service.

Here’s what the amendment helps achieve:

  • A workforce aligned with today’s education system

  • Increased hiring opportunities for SHS graduates

  • Stronger recognition of technical skills

  • A transparent and merit-based recruitment process

  • Professionalization of first-level roles

For U.S.-based readers—especially those managing organizations, studying public administration, or simply keeping updated with Philippine public policy—this reflects a significant shift toward competency-based hiring and lifelong learning.

A Forward-Looking Reform Linked to National Development

The CSC Memorandum Circular No. 07, s. 2025 is a progressive reform that benefits both Filipino workers and government agencies. By recognizing SHS credentials, vocational competencies, and streamlined qualification pathways, the Philippines is taking a major step toward building a stronger, more inclusive, and more future-ready public workforce.

This amendment strengthens the link between education and employment, between SHS reforms and workforce expectations, and most importantly—between young graduates and real opportunities to serve the nation.

MOSY Assessments for ARAL Program 2025: Complete Guide and Important Links

The Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program continues to support literacy and foundational learning as schools work to close gaps and help students progress more confidently. One of the key tools used in this effort is the Middle-of-the-School-Year (MOSY) assessment, a nationwide progress monitoring measure that tracks reading development from Grades 1 to 10.

This guide explains the purpose of MOSY, who should take it, how it supports academic recovery, and all the important links schools need for School Year 2025–2026.

"Teachers administering MOSY literacy assessments to students under the ARAL Program for School Year 2025–2026."

What Are MOSY Assessments?

The Middle-of-the-School-Year (MOSY) assessments measure how much progress learners have made since the beginning of the school year. As part of the ARAL Program’s monitoring system, these assessments help determine whether learners are meeting expected literacy milestones and whether instructional adjustments are necessary.

They support national learning recovery efforts and follow key policies such as:

  • Republic Act No. 12028 – National Learning Recovery Program

  • DepEd Order No. 18, s. 2023 – ARAL Program Guidelines

  • DepEd Memorandum No. 64, s. 2023 – ARAL Program Implementation

MOSY is not merely a test—it is a tool that guides educators toward smarter, data-driven interventions.

Why MOSY Matters in Learning Recovery

Through MOSY, teachers can:

  • Identify learners needing more intensive literacy help

  • Track improvements since the beginning of the school year

  • Adjust ARAL sessions to match current skill levels

  • Ensure better targeting of reading strategies and materials

These assessments allow schools nationwide to maintain consistent monitoring and equitable support.

Who Takes the MOSY Assessments?

All schools implementing ARAL must administer MOSY, regardless of the program’s start date.

Grade 1

  • Test-takers: All Grade 1 learners

  • Testing Window: October 20 – November 17, 2025

  • Assessment Tool: CRLA (Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment)

  • Purpose: Determine eligibility for ARAL participation

  • Important Link: https://bit.ly/CRLA_AdministrationMaterials

Grades 2–3

  • Test-takers: All ARAL learners

  • Testing Window: November 17 – December 15, 2025

  • Assessment Tool: MOSY assessments validated at the beginning of the school year

  • Important Link: CLICK TO ACCESS

Grades 4–10

  • Test-takers: All ARAL learners

  • Testing Window: November 17 – December 15, 2025

  • Assessment Tools:

    • Phil-IRI pre-test materials

    • CRLA (optional for reading level checks)

  • Important Link: https://tinyurl.com/PhilIRIToolsG4to10

Additional Notes for Schools

  • CRLA MOSY results for Grade 1 determine ARAL participation.

  • For Grades 2 to 10, results guide instructional adjustments.

  • Schools must follow the official testing window for consistency.

  • A separate memorandum for MOSY will no longer be issued.

Submission of MOSY Results

All schools must submit MOSY results no later than December 16, 2025.

The timely submission of results ensures that the national learning recovery team can analyze data and adjust interventions where needed.

How MOSY Helps Teachers and Tutors

Teachers gain clearer insights into:

  • Learners’ reading levels

  • Growth from BOSY to MOSY

  • Skill gaps needing targeted intervention

  • Appropriate groupings for ARAL sessions

With reliable data, educators can fine-tune their strategies and improve learning outcomes midyear.

What Parents and Families Should Know

Families benefit from understanding the value of MOSY. Through these assessments, they can:

  • Track their child’s literacy growth

  • Receive clear updates from teachers

  • Support learning at home in the right areas

MOSY fosters stronger collaboration between school and home.

A Look Ahead

As learners continue through the 2025–2026 school year, MOSY assessments remain a vital part of the ARAL Program’s nationwide learning recovery efforts. With accurate data and updated tools, educators are better equipped to help learners strengthen foundational reading skills.

The assessments, together with the provided important links, ensure that schools can carry out MOSY smoothly and effectively.

Here Are More Links for ARAL Reading Topics

The Philippines has long faced a significant challenge in its education system: many students struggle to reach grade-level reading proficiency. To address this, the Department of Education (DepEd) launched the ARAL Reading Program, a nationwide initiative aimed at helping learners strengthen their reading skills in both English and Filipino. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how the program works, its purpose, structure, and impact.

Filipino students in a classroom reading decodable books with a teacher guiding an ARAL reading session

What Is the ARAL Reading Program?

The ARAL Reading Program, officially called the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning program, targets students from Grades 1 to 10 who are struggling with foundational reading skills. Its mission is to ensure that learners achieve the expected level of reading proficiency for their grade.

The program specifically focuses on students who:

  • Read below the minimum standard for their grade level.

  • Are identified by teachers as struggling readers.

  • Read two or more grade levels below where they should be.

By concentrating resources on these learners, ARAL aims to provide targeted support to help students catch up academically and build confidence in reading.

How ARAL Works: Two Key Pathways

ARAL is designed as a differentiated program with two main tracks: ARAL Reading Basic and ARAL Reading Plus, depending on each learner’s needs.

ARAL Reading Basic

This pathway is for students with significant gaps in foundational skills, such as phonics, decoding, and basic fluency. Instruction is structured, explicit, and multisensory, helping students internalize the basics of reading. It focuses on hands-on learning, repetitive practice, and individual support to ensure students grasp core concepts.

ARAL Reading Plus

This pathway targets students who can decode text but struggle with fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary. It involves more complex texts, interactive reading sessions, and scaffolded exercises designed to build higher-level reading skills. Students in this track focus on understanding and analyzing text, expanding vocabulary, and improving reading speed.

Why ARAL Matters: The Stakes Are High

The importance of ARAL cannot be overstated. Many Filipino students can recognize words but struggle to comprehend meaning, a problem often referred to as “functional illiteracy.” This affects academic performance, long-term learning, and future opportunities.

The program aligns with the K–12 curriculum’s essential learning competencies, emphasizing reading as a foundational skill. It also includes continuous assessment, starting with screening tests and progressing to individualized reading assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instruction.

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS ARAL READING TOPICS

Implementing ARAL: From Policy to Practice

The success of ARAL depends on careful implementation:

  • Teacher Training: Educators receive specialized training to deliver ARAL sessions effectively, equipping them with strategies to support both Basic and Plus learners.

  • Learning Materials: Teachers use decodable texts, worksheets, and guided reading activities designed to match students’ reading levels.

  • Community Engagement: Parents, tutors, and local communities are encouraged to participate in reinforcing literacy at home and in informal learning spaces.

  • Monitoring & Evaluation: Student progress is tracked regularly to ensure that interventions are effective and to identify learners who need additional support.

Challenges & Criticisms

While ARAL is a promising initiative, it faces some challenges:

  • Teachers report increased workload and the difficulty of managing both Basic and Plus groups.

  • Some schools lack sufficient materials, such as decodable books and guided reading resources.

  • Ongoing training and support are needed to maintain program quality and ensure consistency across regions.

Despite these hurdles, ARAL continues to make a positive difference for struggling readers.

Success Stories & Early Impact

Although ARAL is still expanding, early results are encouraging:

  • Students in ARAL Reading Plus are gaining confidence and improving comprehension.

  • Learners in ARAL Reading Basic are showing growth in phonics, decoding, and fluency.

  • Teachers report increased student engagement and enthusiasm for reading.

These successes demonstrate the potential of ARAL to significantly improve literacy outcomes for Filipino students.

What’s Next for ARAL?

The program’s long-term success depends on:

  1. Sustained Funding: Continued government and community support to maintain resources and staffing.

  2. Teacher Capacity: Ongoing professional development to help teachers manage both tracks effectively.

  3. Robust Assessment: Monitoring student progress and adjusting instruction to meet individual needs.

  4. Scalable Materials: Providing high-quality decodable texts, comprehension exercises, and digital learning tools.

  5. Community Integration: Ensuring parents and communities actively support reading development outside the classroom.

The ARAL Reading Program is a structured intervention addressing the literacy gap in the Philippines. By combining assessment-driven placement, tailored instruction, and continuous monitoring, ARAL is helping struggling readers achieve their academic potential.

It offers valuable insights into effective reading interventions, differentiated instruction, and data-driven teaching methods, demonstrating that literacy is the foundation of lifelong learning and success.

2025 National Celebration of Tech-Voc: Empowering Skills, Building Better Future Careers

Technical and vocational education has grown into one of the most important drivers of economic development worldwide. As industries rapidly evolve, countries increasingly depend on a workforce equipped not only with theoretical knowledge but also with practical, job-ready skills. This global trend is especially evident in the Philippines—home to millions of skilled professionals who contribute both locally and internationally.

To highlight this vital sector, the Department of Education (DepEd) will once again lead the 2025 National Celebration of Tech-Voc on November 25, 2025, anchored on the theme “Empowering Skills, Building Better Future Careers.” Mandated by Republic Act No. 10970, the celebration reinforces the value of Technical-Vocational (Tech-Voc) education in shaping a capable workforce prepared for the demands of the future.

“Students and educators collaborating in a modern technical-vocational training facility showcasing robotics, automotive, culinary, and technology skills.”

For US-based readers, especially those with Filipino heritage, ties to the education sector, or interest in global workforce development, this celebration offers an inspiring look into how the Philippines invests in long-term career readiness through industry-aligned programs.

Why Tech-Voc Matters in Today’s Global Economy

Across the United States and other countries, vocational and technical education plays a crucial role in solving workforce gaps. Industries such as manufacturing, automotive technology, healthcare support, culinary arts, information technology, and construction rely heavily on skilled professionals. The Philippines mirrors this trend through its nationwide Tech-Voc programs designed to prepare Senior High School learners for successful careers immediately after graduation.

DepEd’s Tech-Voc tracks provide training that is competency-based, industry-standard, and aligned with global workforce expectations—especially valuable in an era where hands-on skills can accelerate employability. For many Filipino families, Tech-Voc serves as a gateway to stable jobs, entrepreneurial opportunities, or even careers abroad.

The 2025 National Celebration: A Commitment to Skills and Opportunity

DepEd Region IV-A (CALABARZON) will host this year’s culminating event. While the official venue is yet to be announced, the celebration on November 25, 2025 promises a collaborative gathering of:

  • Government agencies

  • Private partners

  • Industry-based organizations

  • School leaders, teachers, and learners

The goal: to showcase how collaboration between schools and industries strengthens Technical-Vocational Education for future generations.

Key Objectives of the Celebration

The 2025 National Tech-Voc event aims to:

  1. Present initiatives from DepEd and partner agencies that strengthen Tech-Voc programs nationwide.

  2. Highlight successful partnerships that exemplify effective industry-academic collaboration—an essential component for real-world training and employment readiness.

These objectives reflect the Philippine government’s continuing commitment to upskilling the youth, especially as global industries pivot toward technology-driven and specialized occupations.

Who Will Participate? Representation from All Regions

To ensure wide participation, DepEd has requested each Philippine region to send four official representatives, including:

  • One Regional Director or Schools Division Superintendent

  • One TLE Regional Supervisor

  • One TLE Division Supervisor

  • One School Head

Additionally, Regions III, IV-A, and the National Capital Region (NCR) will send 50 more participants each—composed of field officials, teachers, and learners—to maximize representation.

This expanded participation highlights the event’s significance, demonstrating DepEd’s push to involve all stakeholders in shaping the country’s skills-oriented future.

Support for Delegates and Event Logistics

To make participation accessible, DepEd has already downloaded transportation funds to regional offices as early as August 2025. Most participants (except those from Regions III, IV-A, and NCR) will be provided one night of accommodation on November 24, 2025, ensuring they can fully participate in the event.

All attendees will also receive meals throughout the celebration.

This level of support underscores DepEd’s commitment to ensuring equitable participation—especially crucial for public school officials who may face logistical limitations.

Ensuring No Disruption to Classes

In line with DepEd’s standing policies—particularly Order No. 9, s. 2005, Order No. 012, s. 2025, and Memorandum No. 2022-058—regular classes shall not be disrupted because of the event. Participation hours must come from time allocated for specialized subjects such as:

  • EPP

  • TLE

  • SPTVE

  • TVL

This ensures a balance between hands-on experience (through the event) and uninterrupted academic instruction.

Strengthening Tech-Voc for a Better Tomorrow

For Filipinos in the United States—many of whom work in skilled professions—the Philippine Tech-Voc system continues to serve as the backbone of a globally competitive workforce. The 2025 National Celebration of Tech-Voc is more than a one-day event; it is a testament to the Philippines’ dedication to nurturing practical skills, expanding career opportunities, and building a stronger foundation for economic progress.

By fostering stronger school-industry partnerships and empowering learners through real-world training, the country ensures that its workforce remains adaptable and future-ready.

Submitting Regional Participants

All regions are required to submit their participant lists to the following DepEd email addresses no later than November 14, 2025:

For questions or clarifications, stakeholders may contact Ms. Maria Cecilia Nayve, Program Focal.

Celebrating Skills, Seizing Opportunities

As the world continues to evolve, technical and vocational skills remain essential drivers of productivity and innovation. The 2025 National Celebration of Tech-Voc serves as a meaningful reminder that education is not limited to classrooms—it thrives in workshops, laboratories, kitchens, studios, and real-world environments where learners discover what they can contribute to society.

With its theme “Empowering Skills, Building Better Future Careers,” this year’s celebration invites everyone—educators, policymakers, learners, industry partners, and international stakeholders—to support the growth of Tech-Voc education and the bright futures it creates.

Nationwide Survey for the Development of the DepEd Employee Mental Health Policy (DEMHP)

The Department of Education (DepEd) has long recognized that its greatest asset is its people—teachers, school leaders, and non-teaching personnel who tirelessly work to deliver quality basic education across the Philippines. As global conversations around mental health continue to grow—including among Filipino communities in the United States—DepEd is taking bold steps to ensure its workforce is supported, valued, and mentally healthy.

In line with the observance of World Mental Health Day last October 9, DepEd introduced a major initiative: the development of the DepEd Employee Mental Health Policy (DEMHP). This landmark policy will guide the implementation of mental health support systems for all teaching and non-teaching personnel nationwide.

“Filipino teachers completing an online mental health survey for the DepEd Employee Mental Health Policy in a supportive school environment.”

To make this policy evidence-based and responsive to real needs, DepEd is launching a nationwide Mental Health Survey—and every DepEd employee is strongly encouraged to participate.

Why Your Participation Matters

Across the Philippines—and even among Filipinos abroad—the challenges of the education sector are well-known. Heavy workloads, classroom challenges, administrative tasks, and community expectations often take a toll on the mental well-being of educators and staff.

This survey is not just a formality. It is a crucial foundation for creating lasting mental health programs that benefit thousands of DepEd workers. Your responses will:

  • Help DepEd understand the real mental health concerns of employees

  • Provide insights that shape support mechanisms and wellness programs

  • Ensure that interventions are inclusive, equitable, and culturally appropriate

  • Serve as basis for more employee-centered policy reforms

When educators and personnel are well-supported, students benefit too.

How to Join the Nationwide Mental Health Survey

DepEd encourages all personnel across all regions to take part in the survey. Participation is easy, convenient, and completely online.

Survey Access:

🔗 Link: https://bit.ly/DEMHP MHSurvey
📌 QR Code: (Insert QR code image in the blogpost)

Whether you're a teacher in a remote barangay school, a staff member in a Schools Division Office, or a Filipino educator living in the U.S. while temporarily assigned or connected with the Philippine educational system, your voice matters.

Confidentiality and Data Privacy: Your Information Is Protected

DepEd assures all participants that data privacy is a top priority. All personal and sensitive information collected through the survey will be handled strictly according to:

Republic Act No. 10173 — Data Privacy Act of 2012

This means:

  • Your identity will not be disclosed without your consent

  • Responses will be used solely for crafting the DEMHP

  • Analysis and validation will be performed ethically

  • Aggregated data—not individual answers—will shape policy discussions

You can participate confidently knowing that your honesty is protected by law.

What Happens After the Survey?

The work does not end with data collection. DepEd has laid out a clear and practical process to ensure that every response leads to meaningful action.

1. Data Analysis & Validation

Survey responses will undergo careful review to identify patterns, gaps, and urgent concerns.

2. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs)

In November 2025, the BHROD – Employee Welfare Division (EWD) will hold FGDs with selected participants from:

  • Public schools

  • Schools Division Offices

  • Regional Offices

These FGDs guarantee that policy recommendations truly reflect the real-life experiences of DepEd employees across diverse environments—from urban centers to far-flung localities.

3. Drafting the DEMHP

With validated survey insights and FGD narratives, DepEd will draft a robust, evidence-based, and inclusive mental health policy.

4. Implementation Across DepEd

Once finalized, the DEMHP will guide programs such as:

  • Accessible mental health services

  • Stress-management and wellness initiatives

  • Crisis response and psychological first aid

  • Support systems for high-stress roles

  • Training for leaders in mental health awareness

This is a long-term investment in the wellbeing of our national education workforce.

A Call to Action: Your Honest Participation Creates Change

DepEd emphasizes that a meaningful and sustainable mental health policy can only be created with the cooperation of all employees. Every response—whether expressing stress, satisfaction, concerns, or hope—will help shape a healthier future for the education sector.

**Your voice matters.

Your experience matters.
Your mental well-being matters.**

If you have questions or concerns regarding the survey, you may contact:

📧 bhrod.ewd@deped.gov.ph
☎️ 8633-7229

Building a Healthier, Happier DepEd Family

The development of the DEMHP is a historic step—one that puts the mental well-being of employees at the center of education reform. For Filipino teachers and staff both in the Philippines and abroad, this is a chance to contribute to positive, long-term change.

By participating in the nationwide survey, you help pave the way for a more compassionate, empathetic, and supportive DepEd community.

Together, we build a brighter, healthier future for those who shape the minds of the next generation.

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