DepEd Wellness Leave Policy: Strengthening the Well-Being of Education Personnel

The Department of Education (DepEd) has introduced a groundbreaking Wellness Leave Policy that places employee well-being at the center of its workforce strategy. With educators and staff facing heavy workloads, stress, and emotional fatigue, this policy provides structured support to ensure that personnel can recharge, recover, and return to work with renewed energy.

This initiative is not only a milestone for DepEd but also a model for institutions worldwide. By embedding wellness into official leave structures, DepEd signals that the health of its personnel is essential to delivering quality education.

Why DepEd Introduced Wellness Leave

The 2025 Global Workplace Report revealed that Filipino employees are highly engaged but also among the most stressed and lonely in Southeast Asia. This combination leads to high turnover, with 60% actively seeking new jobs.

DepEd recognized that without systemic support, stress and burnout could undermine the delivery of basic education. The Wellness Leave Policy responds to this challenge by granting up to five days of leave annually for mental health care, physical wellness, or simply taking a restorative break.

Who Can Avail Wellness Leave

The policy applies to a wide range of DepEd personnel, including:

• Central Office staff

• Regional and Division Office employees

• Teachers in schools and community learning centers

• Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) personnel directly engaged by DepEd

By covering both teaching and non-teaching staff, the policy ensures inclusivity and acknowledges that wellness is a universal need.

Defining Wellness Leave

DepEd provides clear definitions to guide implementation:

• Emergency Cases: Sudden deterioration of mental or emotional health due to bereavement, calamity, or extreme stress.

• Mental Health: Based on RA 11036 (Mental Health Act), emphasizing resilience, productivity, and community contribution.

• Wellness Leave (WL): A distinct type of leave for mental health care, physical wellness activities, or a general break from work.

This clarity helps destigmatize mental health and ensures personnel understand their rights.

Policy Objectives

The Wellness Leave Policy aims to:

• Promote mental health and well-being among personnel

• Strengthen resilience by allowing breaks from work

• Reduce absenteeism and turnover rates

• Create a supportive work environment aligned with the Mental Health Act

These objectives highlight DepEd’s commitment to both employee welfare and organizational effectiveness.

Guidelines for Availing Wellness Leave

The policy outlines specific rules:

• Maximum of five days annually

• Leave may be taken consecutively (up to three days) or non-consecutively

• Separate from vacation or sick leave

• Non-cumulative and non-convertible to cash

• Confidentiality guaranteed under the Data Privacy Act

• Applications filed five days in advance, except in emergencies

For teaching staff, school heads must assign relievers to ensure continuity of classes, with overload pay provided to substitute teachers. This balance ensures that wellness does not disrupt education delivery.

Filing Procedures

The filing process is straightforward:

• Non-teaching staff: Applications processed under existing signing authorities using CSC Form No. 6.

• Teaching staff: Applications filed with school heads and recommended for approval by division superintendents.

• COS and JO personnel: Leave provisions included in contracts, with full salary maintained during leave days.

This procedural clarity ensures fairness across employee categories.

Monitoring and Data Privacy

DepEd’s Employee Welfare Division will monitor implementation, gather feedback, and conduct policy reviews. Importantly, all sensitive information—especially mental health data—will be protected under the Data Privacy Act of 2012.

This dual focus on accountability and confidentiality builds trust between employees and the institution.

Legal Provisions and Effectivity

The order includes legal safeguards:

• Interpretation aligned with existing work arrangements

• Transitory provisions for contracts starting January 2026

• Effectivity upon publication on the DepEd website

• Separability clause to preserve validity if parts are challenged

• Repealing clause to override inconsistent prior issuances

These provisions ensure the policy’s durability and enforceability.

Why DepEd’s Policy Matters

The Wellness Leave Policy is more than an HR initiative—it’s a cultural shift. By embedding wellness into official leave structures, DepEd acknowledges that employee health is the foundation of sustainable success.

For educators, this means recognition of their emotional and physical needs. For the institution, it means reduced turnover, improved morale, and enhanced productivity. For society, it means better delivery of education services.

A Model for Education Systems Worldwide

DepEd’s Wellness Leave Policy sets a precedent for how education systems can prioritize employee well-being. By legitimizing wellness leave, DepEd demonstrates that caring for personnel is not secondary to productivity—it is essential to it.

As schools and organizations worldwide grapple with burnout and stress, DepEd’s approach offers a blueprint for balancing engagement with resilience. Wellness leave may well become a global standard in education and beyond.

Understanding the 2026 QEALIS Examination in the Philippines: A Global Lesson in Inclusive Education

Education is more than academics—it’s about inclusivity, cultural respect, and preparing teachers to meet diverse community needs. In the Philippines, the Department of Education (DepEd) has announced the Qualifying Examination in Arabic Language and Islamic Studies (QEALIS) for the first quarter of 2026. While this may sound like a regional initiative, it reflects global trends in multilingual education and cultural preservation—topics that resonate with educators and policymakers worldwide, including in the United States.

What Is QEALIS?

QEALIS is an entry-level examination for individuals applying to become asatidz (teachers in Filipino Muslim communities). It measures proficiency in Arabic and knowledge of Islamic studies.

This initiative is rooted in DepEd Order No. 41, s. 2017, which formalized Madrasah Education within the K to 12 Basic Education Program. By requiring this exam, DepEd ensures that teachers entering the system are qualified both linguistically and culturally.

Nationwide Testing Centers

DepEd has designated testing centers across the Philippines to ensure accessibility. Examinees will be assigned based on their region of origin.

Examples of Testing Centers:

• Ilocos Sur (Region I)

• Isabela (Region II)

• Baguio City (CAR)

• Pampanga (Region III)

• Sta. Rosa City, Cavite City, Rizal (Region IV-A)

• Makati City (NCR)

• Palawan, Oriental Mindoro (Region IV-B)

• Legazpi City (Region V)

• Iloilo City (Region VI)

• Cebu City (Region VII)

• Tacloban City (Region VIII)

• Bacolod City, Dumaguete City (NIR)

• Zamboanga City, Pagadian City, Zamboanga Sibugay (Region IX and BARMM)

• Iligan City, Cagayan De Oro City (Region X and BARMM)

• Davao City (Region XI)

• Cotabato Province (Region XII and BARMM)

• General Santos City (Region XII)

• Butuan City (Caraga)

This broad coverage highlights the government’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring both urban and rural communities are represented.

Who Can Register?

Registrants must meet the following qualifications:

• Be a Filipino citizen aged 18–64 on exam day.

• Have completed at least high school education in both secular (English) and Islamic (Arabic) studies.

This dual requirement ensures that teachers are grounded in mainstream academics while also preserving cultural and religious education.

Registration Requirements

Applicants must prepare the following:

• Two copies of the registration form with a recent 1x1 ID photo.

• Authenticated birth certificate or affidavit of live birth.

• Valid ID, barangay clearance, or certificate of residency.

• Proof of educational attainment (college transcript, diploma, or high school records).

• Certificate of Completion for Thanaawi graduates.

These requirements align with Civil Service Commission (CSC) standards, ensuring consistency nationwide.

Roles of Testing Officials

• Division Testing Coordinator (DTC): Serves as Chief Examiner, overseeing all exam activities.

• Madrasah Education Program (MEP) Coordinators: Collaborate with DTCs to facilitate the exam.

This structured hierarchy ensures accountability and smooth administration across multiple centers.

Important Deadlines

DepEd has set clear timelines:

• February 18, 2026 – Submission of qualified registrants’ lists.

• February 20, 2026 – Regional Testing Coordinators send consolidated Form 1 to BEA.

• February 24, 2026 – Consultative meeting to finalize allocations.

These deadlines emphasize early preparation and coordination.

Pre-Test Preparations

Registrants and personnel must review official materials available via the DepEd QEALIS Google Drive link: 👉 https://bit.ly/DepEdQEALIS (bit.ly in Bing)

On exam day, registrants must bring:

• Signed registration form.

• Original copies of submitted requirements.

• ID photo with name tag.

• Two No. 2 pencils, eraser, and sharpener.

Test Administration and Monitoring

A test monitor from the DepEd Central Office will deliver and retrieve exam materials, ensuring fairness and integrity across all centers.

Scoring and Certification

• The cut score will be determined by subject matter experts and curriculum developers.

• Successful examinees will receive a Certificate of Rating (COR), indicating individual performance.

• Results will be announced via a separate memorandum.

Why This Matters Globally

For U.S.-based readers, QEALIS is a case study in inclusive education. It shows how governments can integrate minority education systems into national frameworks while maintaining rigorous standards.

In a world where multilingualism and cultural literacy are increasingly valued, QEALIS demonstrates how tradition and modern education can coexist.

Conclusion

The 2026 QEALIS exam is more than a qualification—it’s a symbol of inclusivity, cultural respect, and educational progress. By setting clear qualifications, requirements, and procedures, DepEd ensures that aspiring asatidz are prepared to teach future generations.

Globally, QEALIS serves as a reminder that education must adapt to the cultural and linguistic realities of diverse communities.

Redefining the Work-Life Balance: A Deep Dive into the 2026 Wellness Leave Policy

The modern workplace is undergoing a seismic shift. For years, the conversation around productivity focused almost exclusively on hours logged and tasks completed. However, as we move through 2026, the global perspective has pivoted toward a more sustainable metric: employee well-being. Leading this charge is the latest Civil Service Commission (CSC) Wellness Leave Policy, a landmark initiative designed to combat burnout and foster a more resilient, compassionate workforce.

While this policy is specifically tailored for the public sector in the Philippines, its implications resonate deeply with professionals everywhere, including the US-based audience. In a world where "hustle culture" is being replaced by "holistic health," understanding how large-scale institutions are formalizing mental health breaks provides a blueprint for the future of work.

The Evolution of Workplace Wellness: Why Now?

The introduction of the Wellness Leave Policy (WLP) under CSC Resolution No. 2501292 is not just a bureaucratic update; it is a proactive response to a growing mental health crisis. Recent global workplace reports have highlighted that stress levels in Southeast Asia remain among the highest in the world, often driven by heavy workloads and the blurring lines between professional and personal lives.

By institutionalizing a maximum of five (5) days of Wellness Leave per year, the CSC is acknowledging that mental health is just as critical as physical health. This move aligns with the broader goals of the Mental Health Act (Republic Act No. 11036), ensuring that "wellness" is no longer just a buzzword but a protected right for government employees.

Breaking Down the Guidelines: What You Need to Know

The 2026 guidelines are remarkably flexible, designed to accommodate the varied needs of a diverse workforce. Here are the core components of the policy that every eligible employee should understand:

• Total Entitlement: Eligible officials and employees are granted up to five (5) days of Wellness Leave annually.

• Separation from Standard Leaves: Crucially, this is separate and exclusive from the standard 15 days of Vacation Leave, 15 days of Sick Leave, and 3 days of Special Leave. It is an additional layer of support.

• Usage Flexibility: The leave can be taken consecutively for a maximum of three (3) days, or as individual, non-consecutive days throughout the year.

• The "Use It or Lose It" Rule: The Wellness Leave is non-cumulative and non-commutable. This means it cannot be converted into cash and will be forfeited if not used within the calendar year.

The DepEd Perspective: Do Teachers Qualify?

A common question arising from this policy is whether it extends to those in the teaching profession. The short answer is yes. The policy covers all government personnel, including those under the Department of Education (DepEd). However, there is a distinct procedural difference for teaching personnel.

Unlike office-based employees who can file for leave throughout the year, teachers’ leave is usually governed by the school calendar to ensure that students’ learning is not disrupted. For DepEd teachers, these five days are typically integrated into the Midyear Break or other scheduled wellness windows identified by the department. This ensures that while educators receive their well-deserved mental health break, the continuity of the academic year remains intact.

Purpose and Scope: Beyond the Office Desk

One of the most refreshing aspects of this policy is its broad definition of "wellness." The CSC has specified that the leave may be availed of for:

1. Mental Health Care: Attending therapy, counseling, or simply taking a "mental health day" to recalibrate.

2. Physical Wellness Activities: Engaging in fitness retreats, medical check-ups, or holistic health practices.

3. General Break from Work: Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is nothing at all. A general break to prevent burnout is a perfectly valid reason for filing.

The Application Process: A Streamlined Path to Rest

To ensure that the process does not become a source of stress itself, the CSC has integrated the filing procedure into existing systems.

• Advance Filing: In most cases, applications must be filed at least five (5) days in advance.

• Emergency Situations: For urgent mental health needs or unforeseen wellness crises, the leave can be filed immediately upon the employee's return to work.

• Approval Hierarchy: The request must be recommended by the immediate supervisor and approved by the head of the office, similar to vacation leave protocols.

Confidentiality: Creating a Safe Space for Mental Health

A significant hurdle in mental health advocacy is the stigma often associated with asking for help. The 2026 Wellness Leave Policy addresses this head-on by mandating strict confidentiality. Under the Data Privacy Act of 2012, any information regarding an applicant's mental health condition must be protected. This ensures that employees can prioritize their well-being without fear of discrimination or professional repercussions.

Looking Forward: The Impact on Public Service

When employees are rested and mentally sound, the quality of public service naturally improves. The CSC’s chairperson has emphasized that this policy reinforces an environment that is "compassionate, resilient, and more responsive."

For organizations watching from abroad, particularly in the US where "Unlimited PTO" or mandatory wellness weeks are becoming more common in the private sector, the CSC’s bold move serves as a reminder: the most valuable asset of any institution is its people.

Here Are the Links for the 2026 Safer Internet Day Philippines Resources

The digital landscape of 2026 is faster, more integrated, and more complex than ever before. As we navigate a world where artificial intelligence, immersive social platforms, and constant connectivity define our daily lives, the conversation around digital safety has shifted. It is no longer just about "stranger danger"—it is about the culture we create in the spaces where we live, work, and learn.

On February 10, 2026, the global community celebrates Safer Internet Day. In the Philippines, the Department of Education (DepEd) is leading a powerful movement that resonates far beyond its borders. With the theme "Gawing Viral ang Kabutihan" (Make Kindness Viral), this year’s initiative offers a masterclass in how schools, parents, and students can reclaim the internet as a force for good.

The Shift from Protection to Empowerment

In years past, digital safety was often framed through a lens of restriction. However, the 2026 Safer Internet Day Philippines (SID Ph) initiative, spearheaded by the Bureau of Learner Support Services - Learner Rights and Protection Division (BLSS-LRPD), focuses on empowerment. Under the primary theme of "Ako, Ikaw, Tayo: Kontraakto at Protektado Laban sa OSAEC at CSAEM," the movement addresses the heavy realities of online sexual abuse and exploitation.

But protection is only half the battle. The sub-theme—“Choose to be kind to yourself, others, and your school”—acknowledges a universal truth: the best defense against a toxic digital environment is a proactive culture of empathy. By encouraging learners to "make kindness viral," the initiative highlights that every reaction, post, and comment is a choice that has real-world consequences.

Understanding the Modern Risks: OSAEC and CSAEM

For those unfamiliar with the terminology used by educators and digital advocates this year, OSAEC (Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children) and CSAEM (Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials) represent the most critical risks in the digital ecosystem.

The 2026 commemoration isn’t just about a single day of awareness; it is an intensive drive to provide critical information on these risks. The goal is to:

• Identify warning indicators of exploitation early.

• Strengthen reporting mechanisms within the school system.

• Enhance the capacity of teachers to guide students through digital crises.

By integrating these discussions into the classroom, the initiative ensures that safety isn't just a poster on a wall—it is a conversation happening in the hallways and on the screens of every student.

The Role of the Anti-Bullying Act in 2026

A cornerstone of this year’s advocacy is the updated education on the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act. In 2026, the definition of cyberbullying has evolved to match the sophistication of new platforms.

The law now underscores a "co-equal duty" among learners. This means that students aren't just passive observers of the digital world; they are active stakeholders responsible for the well-being of their peers. When a student chooses not to engage in "online bashing" and instead reports harmful behavior, they are upholding a legal and moral standard that keeps the entire community safe.

How Schools are Implementing "Viral Kindness"

The Department of Education has moved beyond theoretical lessons. Throughout early February 2026, schools are conducting Classroom-Based Discussions specifically designed for different developmental stages. These sessions utilize curated instructional guides to teach students how to:

1. Counter Negativity: Transform digital spaces by refusing to amplify hate speech or bullying.

2. Foster Respect: Recognize that behind every avatar is a human being deserving of dignity.

3. Vigilance: Understand that parents, teachers, and students must work as a unified front to spot digital predators.

These sessions are not just lectures; they are interactive deep dives into the ethics of the internet. By the end of February, data will be collected to assess how these discussions have impacted student behavior, ensuring that the "viral kindness" movement is measurable and effective.

Accessing Official 2026 Resources and Materials

To ensure every educator and parent has the tools they need, DepEd has provided direct access to instructional materials and reporting forms.

• Instructional Session Guides: For classroom advisers conducting Homeroom sessions, the full suite of OSAEC and CSAEM guides can be found at https://tinyurl.com/SIDPh2025.

• Data Submission & Reporting: Schools looking to submit their participation data by the end of February can access the official forms at https://tinyurl.com/SIDPH-ReportingForms.

Why This Matters for the Global Community

While these specific directives come from the Philippine Department of Education, the lessons are universal. Whether you are in New York, London, or Manila, the "fast-paced and constantly evolving digital environment" presents the same challenges.

The 2026 theme reminds us that positive behavior is worth spreading. In an era where algorithms often prioritize outrage and conflict, choosing to be kind is a radical act of digital citizenship. It is a reminder that while technology changes, the human need for respect and safety remains constant.

Download Here: Regional Harmonized Curriculum and Implementation Guidelines for the Special Program in Science

The landscape of modern education is shifting toward a model where inquiry-based learning isn't just an elective—it is the foundation. As we look toward building a workforce capable of navigating the complexities of the 21st century, the Special Program in Science (SPS) stands as a beacon for developing the next generation of STEM advocates, leaders, and champions.

Bridging the Gap: The Evolution of Science Education

For years, science education guidelines remained rooted in the 2002 Revised Basic Education Curriculum (RBEC). However, with the transition to the K to 12 Enhanced Basic Education Curriculum, a significant misalignment emerged. While the national Department of Education continues to refine these reforms, Region VII has taken a proactive stance to ensure that no student or school is left in a state of "status quo."

The newly released Regional Harmonized Curriculum and Implementation Guidelines serve as a definitive roadmap. This primer is designed to streamline the implementation of the Special Program in Science, moving away from fragmented instructions and toward a unified, high-standard educational experience.

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What is the Special Program in Science (SPS)?

The SPS is a developmentally appropriate framework that emphasizes problem-based learning and design thinking. It isn’t just about memorizing periodic tables; it’s about fostering a mindset of inquiry.

The Educational Pipeline:

• Special Science in Elementary Schools (SSES): Prepares young learners for advanced science tracks in junior high.

• Science, Technology & Engineering (STE): Envisions students taking the STEM track in Senior High School, eventually becoming the human capital that drives technological and scientific progress.

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A New Vision for STEM Leadership

The mission of the SPS is clear: to nurture learners facilitated by highly competent, specialized teachers. This is achieved through:

• Enhanced Curricula: Focused on research, technology, and engineering.

• Functional Facilities: Ensuring students have access to the labs and tools they need.

• Innovation Opportunities: Creating a space where "trial and error" leads to breakthroughs.

The ultimate goal is to equip students with both technical and entrepreneurial skills, preparing them for the rigors of higher education and the competitive global world of work.

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Why Schools and Students Benefit from SPS Recognition

For an institution, being a recognized SPS implementer is more than just a title—it is a gateway to resources. Schools duly recognized by the region are:

1. Priority for Funding: Eligible for Special Education Funds (SEF) and grants from both government and private sectors.

2. Professional Development: Given priority for scholarships and specialized teacher training.

3. National Endorsement: Included in the Regional Inventory and endorsed to the Central Office as a recognized implementer.

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Understanding the Program Nomenclature

To maintain consistency across special interest programs (like Journalism, Arts, or Sports), Region VII has categorized the SPS into four distinct branches:

• Regional Science High School (RSHS)

• Special Program in Science for Elementary (SPS-E)

• Special Program in Science for Junior High School (SPS-JHS)

• Legislated Science School (LSS)

It is important to note that "SPS" is a curricular program, not a school name. Schools do not need to change their branding, but they must meet rigorous standards to maintain their status.

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The Path to Recognition: How Schools Apply

The application process is a structured, seven-step journey designed to ensure quality control and provide technical assistance where needed.

1. Submission: Schools submit a Letter of Intent and the required checklist (Form 1.0 or 1.1) to the SDO.

2. Division Review: The Division Review and Evaluation Committee (DREC) assesses school readiness.

3. Regional Validation: Compliant applications are endorsed to the Regional Office, where a Regional Inspectorate Team (RIT) conducts a formal site visit.

4. Official Issuance: Upon successful evaluation, a Regional Memorandum is released, officially recognizing the school.

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Rigorous Standards: The SPS Checklist

What makes a science program "Special"? The Regional Guidelines outline strict indicators for success, ranging from admission to physical facilities.

Admission and Retention

The program isn't just about enrollment; it’s about finding the right fit. The admission process includes reading tests (30%), oral interviews (40%), and multiple intelligence assessments (30%). To stay in the program, students must maintain high academic standards, specifically an 87% final rating in Science, Math, and English.

Classroom Environment

To ensure focused laboratory work, SPS classes are capped at a minimum of 25 and a maximum of 40 pupils. This allows for leaner-centered, inquiry-based instruction where every student can get hands-on experience with the curriculum.

Human Resources and Facilities

Teachers in the SPS track are required to have specialized degrees, at least 15 graduate units in their field, or 100 hours of relevant training. Furthermore, the school must provide:

• Functional Science and Computer Laboratories.

• Research rooms with print and non-print resources.

• Specialized tools like robotics kits and sensors.

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Promoting Excellence Through Research and Competition

A hallmark of a successful SPS program is its output. Recognized schools are expected to produce annual research—both from teachers and students—and participate in Science Fairs and Robotics competitions. This culture of excellence ensures that learning extends far beyond the four walls of the classroom.

Moving Forward

The harmonization of the Special Program in Science in Region VII is more than an administrative update; it is a commitment to the future. By providing clear instructions on mobility, assessment, and curriculum, the region is ensuring that every student has a fair shot at becoming a leader in the global STEM community.

Dentista’y Kaagapay sa Ngiting Walang Humpay: 2026 National Toothbrushing Day and Oral Health Drills

Every February, the Philippines celebrates National Dental Health Month (NDHM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about oral hygiene and preventive dental care. In 2026, the Department of Education (DepEd), in partnership with the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), is endorsing the National Toothbrushing Day (NTD) and simultaneous oral health drills. This year’s theme, “Dentista’y Kaagapay sa Ngiting Walang Humpay” (Dentists as Partners for Endless Smiles), highlights the vital role of dental professionals in promoting healthier communities.

The initiative responds to the alarming prevalence of dental caries and gum disease in the country, aiming to instill lifelong oral hygiene habits among children and communities nationwide.

Why Oral Health Matters

According to the National Survey on Oral Health (NSOH) conducted by the Department of Health in 2018, dental caries remain a pressing issue:

• 73% of the population suffers from dental caries.

• 83% of children aged 5 to 12 years have caries in their primary teeth.

• 44% of Filipinos show signs of gingival bleeding and periodontal pockets.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for preventive measures. Oral health is not just about having a bright smile — it directly affects nutrition, confidence, and overall well-being.

The 2026 National Toothbrushing Day: Key Details

• Date: February 2, 2026

• Time: 8:00 AM sharp

• Venue: Mabini Central School, Brgy. Pulong Niogan, Mabini, Batangas (National Kick-off)

• Platforms: Facebook Live and Zoom for nationwide participation

• Participants: All elementary schools, Dental Chapters, Affiliates, and Integrated Organizations across the Philippines

Schools are encouraged to conduct simultaneous toothbrushing drills using either dry or wet brushing techniques, strictly observing infection control protocols.

Objectives of the Event

1. Promote Oral Hygiene Awareness – Encourage children and families to prioritize daily toothbrushing with fluoride toothpaste.

2. Reduce Dental Caries Prevalence – Address high rates of cavities among school-aged children.

3. Strengthen Community Engagement – Unite schools, dental professionals, and families in a nationwide health movement.

4. Leverage Digital Platforms – Stream the event online to maximize reach and participation.

Guidelines for Schools and Participants

To ensure smooth execution, schools and organizations are advised to follow these steps:

1. Simultaneous Toothbrushing Drill – Begin at exactly 8:00 AM.

2. Use Official Instructional Video – Provided by the PDA to guide proper brushing techniques. Watch here: Official Toothbrushing Drill Video.

3. Record Participation – Attendance sheets or Google Forms may be used.

4. Video Documentation – For those unable to join via Zoom, record in landscape format with a visible timestamp.

5. Observe Infection Control Protocols – Safety remains a top priority.

6. Promote Online Engagement – Use official hashtags:

   • #PDADepEdNagkakaisa

   • #BrushPinas

   • #22ndNDHM/NTD

The Role of Dentists: Partners in Endless Smiles

The theme “Dentista’y Kaagapay sa Ngiting Walang Humpay” emphasizes the indispensable role of dentists in community health. Dentists are not only providers of treatment but also educators and advocates for preventive care. By working hand-in-hand with schools and families, they ensure that oral health becomes a cornerstone of overall wellness.

The Power of Preventive Care

Preventive dental care is more cost-effective and impactful than treatment. Simple habits such as brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and regular dental check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

The NTD serves as a reminder that prevention starts early — instilling good habits in children ensures healthier futures.

Digital Engagement: Bringing Oral Health Online

In today’s digital age, awareness campaigns extend beyond classrooms. The 2026 NTD leverages Facebook Live and Zoom to reach millions of Filipinos nationwide. Social media hashtags like #BrushPinas amplify the message, encouraging families to share their participation and inspire others.

National Impact: Building Healthier Communities

By uniting schools, dental professionals, and families, the NTD creates a ripple effect across communities. The initiative not only addresses immediate oral health concerns but also fosters a culture of preventive care.

This collective effort contributes to the broader goal of reducing the national burden of dental diseases and improving overall public health.

Smiles for a Healthier Future

The 2026 National Toothbrushing Day is more than a one-day event — it is a movement towards healthier, brighter smiles for generations to come. With dentists as partners, schools as facilitators, and families as active participants, the Philippines takes a united step toward combating dental caries and promoting lifelong oral health.

As the theme beautifully captures: “Dentista’y Kaagapay sa Ngiting Walang Humpay.”

These Are the Links for EOSY Assessments 2025-2026

The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially released the memorandum guiding the administration of the End-of-the-School-Year (EOSY) assessments for School Year 2025-2026. These assessments are crucial in evaluating the literacy and numeracy skills of learners across Grades 1 to 10. In this blog post, we provide the official links, detailed instructions, and submission guidelines to help schools, teachers, and education stakeholders prepare and comply with the requirements.

What Are EOSY Assessments?

EOSY assessments are standardized tools designed to measure learners’ competencies in reading and mathematics. For SY 2025-2026, three major assessment tools will be used:

• Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment (CRLA) – for Grades 1 to 3

• Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (Phil-IRI) – for Grades 4 to 10

• Rapid Mathematics Assessment (RMA) – for Grades 1 to 10

These assessments will be administered nationwide from February 18 to March 18, 2026.

Official Links to Assessment Materials

Here are the official links provided by DepEd for the EOSY assessments:

• Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment (CRLA) Materials – Grades 1 to 3 👉 https://bit.ly/CRLA_AdministrationMaterials

• Phil-Informal Reading Inventory (Phil-IRI) – Grades 4 to 10 👉 https://tinyurl.com/PhilIRIToolsGr4to10

• Rapid Mathematics Assessment (RMA) – Grades 1 to 10 👉 https://bit.ly/RMAmtrls

These links contain the administration materials, guidelines, and tools needed for teachers to conduct the assessments effectively.

Orientation and Technical Assistance

Before the administration period, the Bureau of Learning Delivery (BLD) will conduct an orientation for Regional and Division Focal Persons. Regional Offices and Schools Division Offices are requested to designate representatives who can provide technical assistance to schools. This ensures that schools requiring support in administering assessments and submitting data will receive proper guidance.

Submission of Results

After completing the EOSY assessments, all schools are required to encode and submit the results through the official submission portal:

👉 https://bld.deped.gov.ph/submission

The deadline for submission is March 20, 2026. Schools must ensure timely encoding to avoid delays in data consolidation and reporting.

Why EOSY Assessments Matter

EOSY assessments are more than compliance requirements. They serve as a diagnostic tool to:

• Identify learners’ strengths and areas for improvement.

• Provide data-driven insights for teachers and administrators.

• Support curriculum adjustments and targeted interventions.

• Ensure nationwide monitoring of literacy and numeracy progress.

By participating fully and accurately, schools contribute to a clearer picture of the educational landscape in the Philippines.

Step-by-Step Guide for Schools

1. Download Materials – Access the official links for CRLA, Phil-IRI, and RMA.

2. Prepare Learners – Inform students and parents about the assessment schedule.

3. Conduct Assessments – Administer the tools between February 18 and March 18, 2026.

4. Encode Results – Input data into the official submission portal.

5. Submit Before Deadline – Ensure submission by March 20, 2026.

Tips for Teachers

• Familiarize yourself with the assessment tools before administration.

• Conduct practice sessions to reduce learner anxiety.

• Ensure a conducive environment for testing.

• Double-check encoded results before submission.

• Coordinate with your division focal person for technical support.

Conclusion

The EOSY assessments for SY 2025-2026 are a vital part of DepEd’s commitment to improving education quality. By following the guidelines, accessing the official links, and submitting results on time, schools can ensure smooth implementation and contribute to national education goals.