DepEd Rolls Out Computer-Based NCAE for SY 2025–2026

The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially announced the administration of the Computer-Based National Career Assessment Examination (CB-NCAE) for School Year 2025–2026 through DepEd Memorandum No. 108, s. 2025. This national assessment plays a critical role in helping Filipino learners understand their strengths, interests, and potential career paths.

Administered by the Bureau of Education Assessment (BEA) with support from Schools Division Offices (SDOs) and secondary school personnel, the CB-NCAE is aligned with DepEd Order No. 55, s. 2016, ensuring standardized, equitable, and learner-centered testing nationwide.

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What Is the CB-NCAE and Why It Matters

The National Career Assessment Examination (NCAE) is not a pass-or-fail test. Instead, it is a career guidance tool designed to help learners make informed decisions about their academic tracks, senior high school pathways, and future careers.

By shifting to a computer-based format, DepEd aims to modernize assessment delivery while improving efficiency, accuracy, and learner familiarity with digital testing environments.

For parents, educators, and guidance advocates, the CB-NCAE provides reliable data to support counseling and long-term educational planning.

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Who Will Take the CB-NCAE and When

According to the memorandum, the CB-NCAE will be administered to all Grade 10 learners currently enrolled in:

• Public secondary schools

• Private secondary schools with government permit or recognition

The test will be conducted during regular class days within the national testing window of December 2025 to January 2026.

Specific testing dates will be determined by each Schools Division Office (SDO) in coordination with their respective Regional Offices, allowing flexibility while maintaining national standards.

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Test Coverage: Aptitude and Career Interests

The CB-NCAE assesses learners across two major components:

1. General Scholastic Aptitude (GSA)

This measures learners’ cognitive strengths through the following subtests:

• Abstract Reasoning

• Logical Reasoning

• Mechanical Reasoning

• Numerical Reasoning

• Spatial Reasoning

• Verbal Reasoning (English and Filipino)

• Perceptual Accuracy and Response Efficiency (PARE)

2. Career and Occupational Roles Explorer (CORE)

This evaluates occupational interests and preferences using:

• CORE-A (RIASEC Model) – explores career interests such as Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional

• CORE-B (Thurstone Model) – examines work-related preferences and tendencies

Together, these results help learners identify career-aligned senior high school tracks and future professions.

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Mock Test and Learner Preparation

To ensure readiness, DepEd mandates a mock test starting December 1, 2025, at least one week before the national administration.

The mock test allows learners to:

• Familiarize themselves with the computer-based system

• Practice navigation and item formats

• Reduce test anxiety

• Identify potential technical issues early

Schools are encouraged to maximize this activity as part of learner preparation and confidence-building.

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Addressing Technology and Connectivity Challenges

DepEd recognizes that not all schools have sufficient functional computer units or stable internet connectivity. To address this, the memorandum encourages resource-sharing and collaboration among nearby schools and partner institutions.

Key provisions include:

• Temporary transfer of laptops, tablets, or testing equipment

• Coordination with nearby schools that have adequate facilities

• Learner transfer allowed only within the same school district

This approach promotes equitable access and ensures that no learner is left behind due to infrastructure limitations.

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Support, Orientation, and Inclusive Testing

The BEA will conduct a virtual orientation for:

• Regional and Division Testing Coordinators

• Regional and Division IT Officers

• SDO Private School Supervisors

Details will be provided through a separate advisory to ensure smooth and standardized test administration.

Learners with disabilities may also participate, provided that test accommodations under Section 9 of DO 55, s. 2016 are met. Visually impaired learners, or those with difficulty seeing, may opt to skip image-heavy subtests such as Abstract Reasoning, Mechanical Reasoning, Spatial Reasoning, and PARE.

All CB-NCAE-related activities must strictly follow health and safety protocols.

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Official Source and Contact Information

This information is based on DepEd Memorandum No. 108, s. 2025, issued by the Department of Education Central Office. For clarifications, schools and stakeholders may contact:

Bureau of Education Assessment – Education Assessment Division
DepEd Central Office, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City
Email: bea.ead@deped.gov.ph
Telephone: (02) 8631-2589

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Guiding Learners Toward Informed Futures

The CB-NCAE for SY 2025–2026 underscores DepEd’s commitment to career guidance, inclusivity, and digital transformation in Philippine education. With proper preparation, coordination, and support, this assessment will empower Grade 10 learners to better understand themselves—and confidently plan their next steps.

“Pamaskong Handog: Pamilya, Pag-asa, at Pagkakaisa” — A Nationwide Celebration of Joy and Unity

Every December, Filipinos across the country look forward to traditions that bring families, communities, and institutions together. One of the most anticipated among these is Pamaskong Handog, an annual initiative led by the Philippine government to celebrate the spirit of giving.

This year, Pamaskong Handog 2025 promises to be bigger, more meaningful, and more connected than ever. By combining holiday festivities with technology and community engagement, the event is set to uplift the lives of thousands of Filipino learners and families from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

While grounded in local culture, the initiative also showcases universal values — generosity, inclusivity, and community — ideals that resonate with audiences anywhere in the world.

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What Is Pamaskong Handog 2025?

Pamaskong Handog 2025 is a nationwide Christmas gift-giving program spearheaded by the Office of the President in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), local government units, and several national agencies.

The event follows the theme:

“Pamaskong Handog: Pamilya, Pag-asa, at Pagkakaisa”

(“Family, Hope, and Unity”)

At its core, the initiative aims to deliver joy, support, and opportunities to Filipino learners and their families through synchronized celebrations across the country. Beyond the festivities, the program integrates digital empowerment through the deployment of Starlink satellite devices in selected schools — strengthening connectivity in remote communities.

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The Goals of Pamaskong Handog 2025

Pamaskong Handog is designed to create impact on multiple levels. Its objectives include:

1. Spreading Holiday Joy and Inclusivity

Learners and their families participate in school-based programs while select groups experience the Christmas celebration at Malacañang Palace, complete with performances, gift-giving, and a guided tour.

2. Promoting Filipino Culture

Cultural presentations, games, and performances highlight traditions and showcase the creativity of Filipino youth.

3. Strengthening Community Bonds

Through shared meals or “Salo-Salo,” participants celebrate togetherness, unity, and gratitude.

4. Demonstrating Multi-Sector Collaboration

The initiative puts a spotlight on the power of partnerships across government agencies, LGUs, and stakeholders working toward a common mission: uplifting communities during the most meaningful season of the year.

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When and Where Will the Event Take Place?

Pamaskong Handog 2025 will be held on:

📅 December 6, 2025 (Saturday)

📍 Malacañang Palace + 100 participating schools nationwide

The nationwide celebration involves:

• 30 schools in Luzon

• 40 in the Visayas

• 30 in Mindanao

Each school will host around 300 participants, consisting of learners, parents, and teachers. In total, the event will gather 30,000 participants nationwide, with 14,000 learners and 16,000 parents and teachers.

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What Activities Will Be Conducted?

1. Christmas Program at Malacañang

Select participants will enjoy:

• Gift-giving activities

• Performances

• A Palace tour

• Special segments with the First Family

2. School-Based Activities Across the Country

All 100 participating schools will conduct:

• Cultural presentations

• Christmas-themed performances

• Interactive games

• Local gift-giving activities

3. Salo-Salo Meals

DepEd will provide breakfast and lunch for all participants, building camaraderie and community spirit.

4. Turnover of Starlink Devices (Tentative)

In partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), some schools will receive satellite internet equipment to boost their digital readiness.

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Program Timeline: A Nationwide Synchronized Celebration

To ensure unity and consistency, schools will follow a pre-set program matrix. Highlights include:

Morning Activities (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM)

• Registration and breakfast

• Technical checks

• Performances

• Games

Main Live Stream with the President (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

• President’s message

• Gift-giving

• Photo opportunity

• Tour of booths accompanied by choir performances

Closing Activities (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM)

• Raffles or additional games

• Lunch and photo sessions

This synchronized approach ensures that every community — whether in a bustling city or a remote island — shares the same celebratory moment.

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Technical Requirements for Participating Schools

To support the live nationwide broadcast, each school must prepare the following:

• LED display rental

• Laptop or desktop computer

• Audio system

• Stable internet connection

• Technical personnel

A coordination meeting between DepEd, participating schools, and Malacañang will ensure technical readiness before the event.

Schools are also required to livestream their local celebrations as part of the collective broadcast.

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Budget Allocation: How Much Is Provided per School?

Each participating school will receive a budget of ₱200,000. This amount covers:

Item	Budget
Meals (300 participants, breakfast + lunch)	₱75,000
LED rental & tech equipment	₱75,000
Games & prizes	₱50,000
TOTAL	₱200,000

Funds are expected to be released by the 2nd or 3rd week of November 2025.

Schools have flexibility to reallocate funds as long as they prioritize essential items and ensure full documentation of expenses.

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How Will the Gift Packages Be Distributed?

Each of the 140 learners per school will receive an official gift set from the Office of the President.

Gift sets will be delivered from the DepEd Central Office Warehouse to Regional Offices, which will then supervise the distribution to each participating school.

If funds allow, schools may also procure additional gifts for parents, teachers, or school staff.

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Roles of School Personnel

To ensure smooth execution, schools must assign coordinators for:

• Logistics

• Technical/stage management

• Admin and documentation

• Hosting

• Guest relations

• Zoom and livestream facilitation

A School Program Lead will oversee the overall implementation.

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Why Pamaskong Handog 2025 Matters

Beyond the festivities, Pamaskong Handog 2025 emphasizes something deeply meaningful:

Hope. Solidarity. Shared culture. Community empowerment.

It’s a reminder that even amid challenges, collective joy and unity can bring light to the lives of thousands of Filipino children and families. The initiative isn’t just a seasonal celebration — it is an investment in people, culture, and connection.

DepEd Order No. 031, s. 2025: Teachers’ Salary Subsidy Raised to ₱24,000 for Private JHS Teachers

Good news for private junior high school teachers! The Department of Education (DepEd) has released DepEd Order No. 031, s. 2025, amending the provisions of DO No. 20, s. 2017. Starting School Year (SY) 2025–2026, the Teachers’ Salary Subsidy (TSS) will increase from ₱18,000 to ₱24,000 per year.

This adjustment is part of the government’s ongoing effort to support private school teachers handling Educational Service Contracting (ESC) grantees, recognizing their important role in delivering quality education alongside the public school system.

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What is the Teachers’ Salary Subsidy (TSS)?

The TSS is a government subsidy provided to qualified teachers in private junior high schools that participate in the Educational Service Contracting (ESC) program. It serves as additional financial support for teachers handling ESC grantees.

Under DO No. 20, s. 2017, the subsidy was previously set at ₱18,000 per teacher per school year, unless adjusted by the State Assistance Council (SAC).

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Key Change Under DepEd Order No. 031, s. 2025

1. Increase in Subsidy Amount

• From ₱18,000 → ₱24,000 per teacher per school year, effective SY 2025–2026.
• Approved by the State Assistance Council (SAC) through an ad referendum in 2025.

2. Eligibility Requirements

• Teachers must handle ESC grantees for the entire school year to receive the full ₱24,000.
• If a teacher was hired after the start of classes, resigned, or retired before the end of the SY, the subsidy will be pro-rated at ₱2,000 per full month of service.
• No subsidy will be given for partial or incomplete months of teaching.

3. Sample Computations

• Full Year Service (12 months): ₱24,000 (₱2,000 × 12)
• Partial Service (e.g., 3 months): ₱6,000 (₱2,000 × 3)
• Less than a full month of service: ₱0

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Why This Matters for Private School Teachers

1. Financial Relief: With rising costs of living, the ₱6,000 increase offers meaningful support to private JHS teachers.
2. Recognition of Role: The amendment highlights the government’s acknowledgment of private teachers as partners in ensuring access to quality education.
3. Fairer Distribution: The pro-rata system ensures that subsidies are aligned with the actual teaching service rendered.

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Implementation Details

• DepEd will remit the funds to ESC-participating junior high schools.
• Schools will disburse the subsidy directly to qualified teachers.
• The new guidelines apply starting SY 2025–2026 and onwards, unless further amended by SAC.

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Conclusion

DepEd Order No. 031, s. 2025 is a welcome update for many teachers in private junior high schools. By increasing the Teachers’ Salary Subsidy to ₱24,000, the government is reaffirming its commitment to support educators and improve the delivery of education nationwide.

Teachers are encouraged to stay updated with their school heads and the DepEd Government Assistance and Subsidies Service (GASS) for further details on implementation.

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FAQs

Q1: Who is eligible for the TSS?
Only teachers in ESC-participating private junior high schools who handle ESC grantees.

Q2: Will the subsidy be given monthly?
No. The subsidy is computed annually, but distributed by the school after DepEd releases the funds.

Q3: What if I only taught for 5 months?
You will receive ₱10,000 (₱2,000 × 5 full months).

Q4: What if I resign mid-month?
You won’t receive a subsidy for that incomplete month.

📚🎨 Classrooms Come Alive Again: DepEd Softens Bare Walls Policy, Embraces Visual Aids in Learning 🎉🖼️

In a move welcomed by educators and students alike, the Department of Education (DepEd) has shifted its stance on the controversial classroom decor policy that previously banned visual aids and pictures of national heroes from classroom walls. The policy, originally formalized under DepEd Order 21 during former Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte’s term, promoted minimalist classrooms free of posters, tarpaulins, and artwork. But with the current leadership under Secretary Sonny Angara, a more flexible and education-friendly approach is being adopted.

🏫📘 A Return to Color: The Power of Visual Aids in Learning

Secretary Sonny Angara recently clarified that the department is no longer strictly implementing the order that led to bare classroom walls, saying, “Kung ‘yun ang gusto nung mga learners at ng mga teachers, pwede naman silang magkabit.” This softer stance reflects a broader understanding of how visual learning tools play a key role in student engagement and comprehension.

Experts from educational psychology have long emphasized the benefits of visual stimuli in classrooms. According to the American Psychological Association, the use of images, infographics, and other visual aids can improve memory retention and make abstract concepts more accessible. These materials also serve as daily reinforcements of civic identity—reminders of history through portraits of national heroes and leaders.

👩‍🏫🖍️ Creativity in the Classroom: Not a Distraction, But an Ally

Critics of the previous policy, including ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro, questioned the rationale behind the strict ban, pointing out the absence of any empirical study to justify the claim that visuals distract learners. In truth, classrooms are not just places for rote learning—they are environments that should inspire, motivate, and support various learning styles.

Teachers’ groups have also noted that the use of educational posters, artwork, and displays of student work fosters a sense of ownership and pride among students. These elements are more than decor—they’re educational scaffolds that reinforce lessons, encourage participation, and make the classroom feel like a place of belonging and growth.

🏗️📈 A Brighter Future: More Teachers, Better Classrooms

While the bare walls policy might be fading, Secretary Angara is also looking at structural improvements to the country’s education system. The department is set to open 20,000 new teaching positions for School Year 2025–2026, a move aimed at reducing overcrowded classrooms and enhancing teacher-student interaction.

In parallel, thousands of volunteers have signed up for Brigada Eskwela, a nationwide initiative to prepare schools for the June 16 class opening. The campaign reflects a national commitment to make learning environments safe, resilient, and well-equipped—from clean classrooms to well-stocked learning corners.

This two-pronged approach—empowering teachers and revitalizing learning spaces—signals a welcome direction for Philippine education. It recognizes that learning is not just about the curriculum but also about the environment that supports it.

🌍🔍 Global Perspective: What Other Countries Do

Around the world, learning environments are recognized as critical in promoting effective education. According to UNESCO, inclusive and stimulating classrooms can contribute significantly to student well-being and academic success. By allowing the return of visual aids and investing in teachers, the Philippines is aligning itself with best practices seen in other progressive education systems.

📣 Here Are the Passers for the 2024 Accreditation & Equivalency Test 📘 – Official DepEd Memo Released!

In a significant update from the Department of Education (DepEd), the long-anticipated results for the 2024 Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) Test are finally out! This critical assessment, conducted by DepEd’s Bureau of Education Assessment (BEA), opens new educational doors for many Alternative Learning System (ALS) learners across the country.

📅 The tests were administered on January 26, 2025, for the Luzon Cluster, and on February 2, 2025, for the Visayas and Mindanao Clusters. The official list of passers is now available via regional and local Schools Division Offices (SDOs), according to the latest memorandum released on June 6, 2025.

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🎓 What Is the A&E Test and Why It Matters

The A&E Test—also referred to as the ALS Accreditation and Equivalency Test—serves as an alternate pathway for learners who did not complete formal basic education. As per DepEd Order No. 55, s. 2016, the goal of this assessment is to measure both academic competencies and real-life skills.

This initiative empowers out-of-school youth, adult learners, and other marginalized groups to earn a Certificate of Completion, which acts as a credential for:

• Re-enrollment in formal education (Grade 7 or Grade 11)

• Employment opportunities

• Promotion within current jobs

• Skills training or further education access

According to DepEd, this assessment ensures “inclusive and equitable quality education” in line with UNESCO’s global education agenda.

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✅ 📝 Understanding the Passing Criteria: Are You a Passer or Conditional?

To be officially declared a passer, examinees must achieve an overall test score of at least 60.00% in either the Elementary or Junior High School level tests.

Learners who pass can proceed to:

• Grade 7 or ALS Junior High School (for elementary test passers)

• Grade 11 or ALS Senior High School (for high school test passers)

However, those who score between 50.00% and 59.99% are designated as conditional passers. This group is required to undergo a two-week learning enhancement program designed and implemented by their respective Community Learning Centers (CLCs) or Schools Division Offices (SDOs).

💬 As noted by the Bureau of Alternative Education (BAE), these enhancement sessions aim to solidify weak competencies and ensure that conditional passers meet the required educational benchmarks.

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📄 How and Where to Get Your Certificate of Rating (COR)

If you took the test, you can claim your Certificate of Rating (COR) from the SDO where your testing center was located. These certificates are proof of your performance and eligibility to transition to formal education or pursue employment opportunities.

To ensure a smooth and systematic distribution, Division Testing Coordinators are working in coordination with ALS focal persons and Education Program Specialists II for ALS.

🗂️ According to the memorandum, all concerned personnel must ensure proper documentation, verification, and the orderly release of these certificates.

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📢 Official Implementation and Inquiries

This directive from DepEd takes effect immediately. It has been officially recorded in the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR) at the University of the Philippines Law Center, ensuring legal documentation and transparency.

For those needing further clarification, inquiries can be sent to the Bureau of Education Assessment – Education Assessment Division, located at the DepEd Central Office in Pasig City. You can also reach them via email at bea.ead@deped.gov.ph or by phone at (02) 8631-2589 / 8631-6921.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE A&E 2024 TEST PASSERS

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🌟 Final Thoughts: A Milestone for Inclusive Education in the Philippines

The A&E Test 2024 results symbolize a massive step forward for the ALS community. Whether you’ve passed outright or are heading into the enhancement program, this milestone is a gateway to new opportunities.

Keep an eye on updates from your local SDO and DepEd channels, and don’t forget to claim your COR on time. You’re now one step closer to a brighter, more empowered future. 🌈

📚💸 The Real Cost of Quality: Why Tuition Fees in Private Schools Are Rising for SY 2025–2026 📈🧑‍🏫

As the 2025–2026 school year draws near, the spotlight turns to a topic that resonates with many Filipino families: tuition fee increases in private schools. But behind the headlines lies a deeper reality—one rooted not just in numbers, but in the evolving needs of the educational landscape. While some may view rising fees as burdensome, others see it as a necessary step to sustain quality education and retain competent educators.

🧑‍🏫📈 A Closer Look: Why Are Private Schools Increasing Tuition Fees?

The Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA) has confirmed that several private schools will implement tuition fee adjustments for the upcoming academic year. But far from being arbitrary, these increases reflect a broader reality: the growing financial needs of educational institutions.

According to COCOPEA legal counsel Joseph Noel Estrada, these adjustments are not just responses to inflation. They are driven primarily by the need to improve compensation for teachers and school personnel. Many educators have long been advocating for fair wages—essential not just for their livelihood, but also to retain talent and uphold the quality of learning in private institutions. After all, behind every excellent classroom experience is a dedicated, well-compensated teacher.

These tuition hikes, Estrada notes, are expected to remain within the bounds of inflation, making them relatively measured rather than excessive. Still, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) have yet to release final figures on which schools are permitted to implement increases.

🗓️📆 Shifting Calendars and Early Preparations

Another significant development accompanying this tuition news is the shift back to a June school opening for most private schools. The traditional school calendar, once disrupted by the pandemic, is gradually being restored. For educational institutions, this means early preparations—setting schedules, recalibrating academic plans, and aligning administrative workflows. For parents, it signals an earlier timeline for school-related decisions, including budgeting for new tuition fees.

🧾💰 DepEd Voucher Program: Vital Support with Lingering Issues

Amid rising tuition, many families continue to depend on the DepEd’s Senior High School Voucher Program (SHS-VP) to afford private education. This subsidy has long played a crucial role in easing the financial burden for qualified students and helping decongest public schools.

However, the program recently faced scrutiny after 54 private schools were flagged for anomalies in voucher claims covering school years 2021–2022 and 2022–2023. Of those, 38 institutions have already refunded the government in full, two made partial returns, and 14 are yet to comply. DepEd has recovered approximately ₱65 million, with final demand letters underway to secure the remaining amount.

While the irregularities affect less than 1% of total beneficiaries, Estrada warns against generalizing these issues. The SHS-VP remains a lifeline for thousands of Filipino students and should be strengthened—not sidelined—because of isolated cases.

🎓⚖️ Striking a Balance: Education Quality vs. Affordability

Navigating the balance between educational quality and affordability is a challenge shared by schools, families, and policymakers alike. Tuition increases are never welcome news to parents, yet they can represent necessary adjustments to maintain the kind of education every student deserves. Rather than viewing fee hikes as setbacks, they can be seen as investments—particularly when transparency, teacher welfare, and educational outcomes are prioritized.

As we await official approvals and school-specific announcements, one thing is clear: the evolving landscape of private education in the Philippines continues to demand thoughtful dialogue, equitable support systems, and proactive planning.