ARAL Program: Marcos Administration Boosts Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning for Filipino Students

As part of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s continuing commitment to education, the Department of Education (DepEd) officially launched the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program on Saturday. The initiative aims to address the country’s learning crisis and strengthen the foundational skills of students across all grade levels.

A Nationwide Launch for Quality Education

The ARAL Program was launched simultaneously nationwide, led by members of DepEd’s Executive Committee (ExeCom). The event coincided with President Marcos Jr.’s birthday and International Literacy Day on September 8, underscoring the Philippines’ dedication to promoting quality education as a proud UNESCO Member State.

Grounded in Law and Action

The ARAL Program was established under Republic Act No. 12028, signed into law by President Marcos last year. It will provide tutorial support in Reading, Mathematics, and Science for Kindergarten to Grade 10 students to help them meet the expected learning competencies of their grade levels.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the importance of early interventions:

“Through ARAL, we ensure that learners who are falling behind can catch up. But more importantly, we are committed to building stronger foundational skills—especially in Key Stage 1, the most critical phase of a child’s development. We are grateful to our President for making this program a reality.”

Focus on ARAL-Reading for SY 2025–2026

For the upcoming school year, the program will prioritize ARAL-Reading, providing immediate support to struggling learners, particularly low, high emerging, and frustrated readers. Currently, 6,713,352 students have been identified as beneficiaries, to be assisted by 447,537 tutors and 45,084 school heads.

The program will begin in the second quarter of SY 2025–2026, with future expansions to include:

• ARAL-Mathematics (Grades 1–10)

• ARAL-Science (Grades 3–10)

• ARAL-Summer Programs

Training, Tutors, and Parental Support

To ensure readiness, DepEd has rolled out training for tutors, distributed learning resources, and introduced the ARAL School Readiness and Responsiveness Audit (ASRRA). Tutors will include teachers, para-teachers, pre-service teachers, and trained individuals—equipped with both proper training and compensation.

Parents and guardians will also play a critical role, with orientations designed to help them support and reinforce their children’s learning at home.

EduKahon: Standardized School Recovery Kit

During the launch, Secretary Angara and ExeCom members also distributed EduKahon, DepEd’s standardized school recovery kit. This move highlights the department’s commitment to ensuring continuity of learning even during disruptions.

Building on Past Literacy Programs

The ARAL Program builds upon the success of previous DepEd initiatives like the Bawat Bata Makababasa Program (BBMP) and the Nationwide Learning Recovery Program (NLRP), which both led to significant improvements in literacy and learning outcomes nationwide.

Looking Ahead

With ARAL, the Marcos administration and DepEd reaffirm their mission to bridge learning gaps, strengthen foundational skills, and uplift the quality of Philippine education—preparing learners for a brighter future.

September 2025 Librarians Licensure Exam Topnotchers: Complete List and Highlights

In a nation where libraries remain vital hubs of knowledge and culture, the September 2025 Librarians Computer-Based Licensure Examination (LCBLE) marks another milestone. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) has officially released the results, producing 629 new licensed librarians out of 919 examinees. Just one working day after the exams, the results spotlight the Top 10 achievers, showcasing the brightest future leaders in the field of library and information science.

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Topnotchers of the September 2025 Librarians Licensure Exam

The PRC congratulates the following examinees who secured the highest ranks:

🏆 Top 10 Performers

1. Patricia Dimaano Victa – University of the Philippines-Diliman

2. Jolly Gonzales Calixtro – University of the Philippines-Diliman

3. Katherine Traqueña Bunao – University of the Philippines-Diliman
   Krianne Isobelle Figueroa Garcia – University of the Philippines-Diliman

4. Frances Wayne Bastilo Abad – Philippine Normal University-Manila
   Johnson Magallanes Tenasas – Philippine Normal University-Manila

5. Al-Naizar Kadil Andao – Bulacan State University (for. BCAT)-Malolos

6. Russen Jay Calahati Reyes – Philippine Normal University-Manila

7. Paul Jorge Ibatutan Tagle – University of the Philippines-Diliman

8. Christine Joy Bambilla Gallardo – Philippine Normal University-Manila
   Gillian Fiona Canada Teodoro – Baliuag University (Baliuag Colleges)

9. Jianel Aniciete Bulaong – Bulacan State University (for. BCAT)-Malolos

10. Kyla Marie Salvo Cachila – Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Main-Sta. Mesa

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Key Exam Details

• Overall Results: 629 passers out of 919 examinees

• Testing Centers: NCR, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Koronadal, Legazpi, Lucena, Pagadian, Rosales, and Tuguegarao

• Release of Results: 1 working day after the last exam

• Board Members: Hon. Yolanda C. Granda (Chairperson) and Hon. Lourdes T. David (Member)

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Next Steps for Successful Examinees

Starting October 6, 2025, registration for the Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be done online at www.prc.gov.ph.

Requirements:

• Accomplished Oath Form (Panunumpa ng Propesyonal)

• Notice of Admission (for ID only)

• 2 passport-size photos (white background, name tag)

• 2 sets of documentary stamps

• 1 short brown envelope

👉 Oathtaking ceremony details will be announced soon by the PRC.

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Why This Exam Matters

Libraries and librarians play a crucial role in preserving knowledge, promoting literacy, and empowering communities. With these new passers, the Philippines gains fresh professionals ready to lead in education, research, and information management.

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FAQs

1. When were the September 2025 Librarians Licensure Exam results released?
➡️ Just one working day after the last exam date.

2. How many passed the exam?
➡️ A total of 629 passers out of 919 examinees.

3. When does registration for PRC ID and Certificate start?
➡️ October 6, 2025, via www.prc.gov.ph.

4. Who topped the exam?
➡️ Patricia Dimaano Victa of UP-Diliman ranked first.

PhilHealth: Partner in the Fight Against Childhood Cancer

Hearing the words “Your child has cancer” is one of the most heartbreaking experiences a parent can face. Childhood cancer may be rare, but it remains one of the leading causes of illness and death among children in the Philippines.

The high cost of treatment—from diagnosis to rehabilitation—often places families under enormous financial stress. Thankfully, the PhilHealth Z Benefit Package provides critical support, ensuring that children have a better chance at survival and recovery.

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What is PhilHealth?

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is the country’s national health insurance program. It was established to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for every Filipino.

Among its many services is the Z Benefit Package, designed specifically for severe and life-threatening conditions such as childhood cancers.

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Childhood Cancer in the Philippines

• Childhood cancer cases, though less common, demand urgent and continuous care.

• Treatment often requires months or even years of hospital visits, medications, and therapies.

• Without financial assistance, many Filipino families would struggle to shoulder these costs alone.

This is why programs like PhilHealth’s Z Benefit Package are vital—helping bridge the gap between families’ resources and their children’s medical needs.

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The PhilHealth Z Benefit Package for Children with Cancer

For children under 11 years old, PhilHealth provides coverage of up to ₱500,000. This package includes:

• Diagnosis – laboratory tests, imaging, and other medical evaluations

• Treatment – chemotherapy, surgery, and other procedures

• Follow-up care – continued check-ups and medical monitoring

• Rehabilitation – recovery support to help children regain strength and health

This benefit gives families hope, easing the burden of expenses while providing children the best possible chance to heal.

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Why This Matters for Filipino Families

1. Financial Support – Reduces the overwhelming costs of treatment.

2. Access to Care – Ensures children receive proper medical attention early on.

3. Health Equity – Upholds every Filipino child’s right to a healthy and happy future.

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Recent Updates and Efforts

• PhilHealth continues to expand coverage for serious illnesses, prioritizing conditions that place heavy burdens on Filipino families.

• Local hospitals and treatment centers are working closely with PhilHealth to ensure faster access to benefits.

• Advocacy groups highlight the importance of early detection, which greatly improves survival chances.

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Conclusion: Every Child Deserves a Chance

Childhood cancer is a difficult journey—but no family should face it alone. With the help of PhilHealth’s Z Benefit Package, Filipino children fighting cancer can access essential medical care and rehabilitation.

This program reflects a powerful truth: that every Filipino child deserves not only treatment, but also hope for a brighter, healthier future.

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FAQs

1. Who can avail of the PhilHealth Z Benefit Package for childhood cancer?
Children under 11 years old diagnosed with covered cancer conditions.

2. How much is the benefit coverage?
Up to ₱500,000 for diagnosis, treatment, follow-ups, and rehabilitation.

3. Why is early detection important?
Early detection increases the chances of survival and reduces the intensity of treatment needed.

🌍 World Mental Health Day 2025: Prioritizing Mental Health in the Workplace

Every October 10, the world comes together to mark World Mental Health Day, a movement dedicated to raising awareness and improving access to mental health care. This year’s theme, “It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace,” highlights a growing global issue: how our jobs affect our well-being.

Whether in an office, a classroom, a factory, or a remote setup at home, the workplace can shape our mental health in powerful ways. Stress, burnout, and lack of support don’t just affect productivity—they impact lives. But with the right changes, workplaces can become spaces of support, growth, and balance.

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🌐 Why the Workplace Matters in Mental Health

According to the World Health Organization (WHO):

• An estimated 12 billion working days are lost every year due to depression and anxiety, costing the global economy trillions of dollars.

• Burnout is now officially recognized as an occupational phenomenon.

• Supportive workplaces improve retention, morale, and overall productivity.

This makes workplace well-being not just a health priority but also an economic and social priority.

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💡 Challenges Employees Face

Work-related mental health struggles vary across countries and industries, but common issues include:

• Long hours and excessive workloads leading to chronic stress.

• Job insecurity and financial pressure.

• Lack of work-life balance in both in-person and remote jobs.

• Bullying, discrimination, or toxic workplace culture.

• Limited access to mental health services or employee support programs.

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🌱 How Workplaces Can Take Action

1. Employers’ Role

• Offer mental health programs such as counseling or wellness initiatives.

• Encourage open conversations by reducing stigma in the workplace.

• Promote flexible work policies like remote options or flexible hours.

• Train managers to recognize signs of stress, anxiety, or burnout.

2. Employees’ Role

• Practice self-care at work (breaks, movement, mindfulness).

• Set healthy boundaries to avoid overwork.

• Reach out to supervisors or HR when support is needed.

• Support colleagues by fostering empathy and teamwork.

3. Government and Global Institutions

• Implement and enforce occupational health policies that include mental well-being.

• Provide incentives for companies that prioritize workplace wellness.

• Expand access to affordable mental health care, especially in low-resource regions.

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🌍 Global Workplace Initiatives

• Europe: Many companies are adopting the “right to disconnect,” giving workers freedom from after-hours communication.

• Asia: Increasing numbers of corporations in Japan and South Korea are addressing overwork culture and promoting balance.

• Africa: NGOs and private firms are training leaders to integrate mental health awareness into corporate policies.

• Latin America: Employee wellness programs are expanding in growing industries like tech and customer service.

These examples show that positive change is possible—and happening—worldwide.

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✅ Key Takeaway

World Mental Health Day 2025 reminds us that work should not cost us our well-being. Prioritizing mental health in the workplace is not only the right thing to do—it’s also essential for healthier, more productive, and more resilient communities.

👉 This October 10, let’s commit to building workplaces where people thrive, not just survive.

DepEd’s New Career Progression System: A Brighter Path for Teachers

A New Chapter for Teachers

For years, many Filipino teachers have voiced concerns about the lack of opportunities for promotion. Most had to wait for vacancies or compete for a single slot, which often led to frustration. Now, there is good news: the Department of Education (DepEd) has launched the Expanded Career Progression (ECP) System, a reform designed to give teachers clearer, fairer, and competency-based career growth.

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What is the Expanded Career Progression (ECP) System?

Under DepEd Order No. 024, s. 2025, the ECP System was introduced as part of the government’s efforts to uplift the teaching profession.

New Positions and Career Tracks

• Teacher IV to Teacher VII

• Master Teacher I to Master Teacher V

• Two pathways: Classroom Teaching Track and School Administration Track

What Changed?

• No more waiting for vacancies. Once you meet the standards, you may be promoted.

• Competency-based promotions. Progress is based on skills, teaching quality, and leadership—not just paperwork or tenure.

• Higher teacher morale. With clearer career direction, teachers feel more motivated to continue serving.

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Key Benefits of the New System

1. Faster Career Growth

Teachers no longer need to wait years for openings. If you qualify, you can move up the ladder.

2. Fair and Transparent Standards

Promotions are anchored on the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST) and the Philippine Professional Standards for School Heads (PPSSH).

3. Protection for Current Positions

During the transition period (2025–2028), Head Teachers and Assistant Principals will not lose their salary or benefits. They may choose to keep their current titles or shift to the equivalent role under the new system.

4. Professional Development Opportunities

Through the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP), more training, mentorship, and leadership programs will be provided, especially for those preparing for higher roles.

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What This Means for Teachers

• A clearer future. Career goals are now within reach.

• Recognition of hard work. The system affirms: “Your service matters. You deserve to grow.”

• Better education for students. When teachers are motivated, students benefit the most.

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FAQs

Q: When will the ECP be implemented?
A: The transition period runs from February 25, 2025, to February 24, 2028.

Q: Will current positions be removed?
A: No. Incumbent teachers are protected and may either keep their titles or transition to the new roles.

Q: Do teachers still need to wait for vacancies?
A: No. Promotions will now depend on meeting competency standards.

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Conclusion: For Teachers, For the Future

The Expanded Career Progression System is more than just about promotions—it’s about respect, recognition, and support for teachers. Every step forward for a teacher also means a step forward for Philippine education.