Home Economics Graduates Can Now Teach: What DepEd Memo 079, s. 2025 Means

Ever wondered if someone with a degree in Culinary Arts, Hotel and Restaurant Management, or Clothing Technology could officially teach in schools? Thanks to DepEd Memorandum 079, s. 2025, the answer is now a big yes! This move opens new opportunities for many skilled professionals while addressing the shortage of teachers in specialized fields.

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What Is DepEd Memorandum 079, s. 2025?

DepEd Memorandum 079, s. 2025 shares the official Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 11168. This law allows Home Economics graduates to teach Home Economics and related technical-vocational subjects in public and private schools.

Here’s why it matters:

• It helps fill the gap when there aren’t enough licensed teachers available.

• It recognizes the value of experts in fields like culinary arts, interior design, food technology, and clothing technology.

• It ensures students learn not only from licensed teachers but also from real-world practitioners with strong expertise.

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Who Qualifies To Teach Under This Law?

Not just anyone can walk into a classroom. The IRR clearly defines who can teach under this setup.

Qualifications include:

• Must be a graduate of Home Economics or related allied sciences (like Hotel & Restaurant Management, Family Life & Child Development, or Industrial Education).

• Should complete Training Methodology Level 1 from TESDA.

• Must pass the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) within 5 years of being hired.

• For technical-vocational subjects, graduates need to have TESDA National Certificates (NC I and NC II).

These teachers are called provisional teachers, meaning they are allowed to teach while completing their requirements.

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Why Is This Important for Schools and Students?

This policy is more than just paperwork—it has real impact:

• Brings industry experience to the classroom: Imagine being taught baking by a Culinary Arts graduate or clothing design by someone who studied Fashion Technology.

• Addresses teacher shortages: Some subjects lack licensed educators, and this law fills the gap.

• Boosts technical-vocational skills: Students gain hands-on learning that’s directly tied to employable skills.

Fun fact: Did you know that Home Economics has evolved beyond cooking and sewing? Today, it includes entrepreneurship, consumer studies, and even household resource management!

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The Role of CHED, TESDA, and PRC

This isn’t just DepEd’s call. The law was crafted with the help of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

• CHED ensures the programs are aligned with higher education standards.

• TESDA provides certification and training for technical skills.

• PRC manages the licensure process for teachers.

This teamwork ensures that education stays high-quality while giving opportunities to professionals.

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What Happens Next?

Now that the IRR has been published in the Official Gazette, schools are expected to implement the law. DepEd, TESDA, PRC, and CHED will continue issuing guidelines to refine the process.

Teachers hired under this rule will be appointed to Teacher I positions, giving them proper recognition in the education system.

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Personal Insight

I think this is a smart move. It’s a win-win: schools get qualified educators in specialized subjects, while students benefit from hands-on lessons taught by experts. If I were a student again, I’d love to learn cooking or fashion design from someone who has actually worked in the field.

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A Step Forward for Home Economics Education

DepEd Memorandum 079, s. 2025 ensures that Home Economics graduates can officially teach, filling gaps in the education system while giving students richer, more practical learning. Do you think this will make Home Economics more exciting for students? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act: What Every Teacher Should Know

Have you ever wondered how teachers manage the endless costs of classroom supplies? From markers to printed modules, the list never seems to end. That’s why the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act is such a big deal—it directly addresses this challenge by providing public school teachers with financial support for their teaching needs.

What Is the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act?

The Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, officially Republic Act No. 11997, was signed into law to institutionalize the grant of a teaching allowance for all public school teachers in the Philippines. This allowance is not just a one-time bonus—it’s a regular and guaranteed support from the government.

Here are the key points:

• Teachers will receive ₱5,000 for School Year 2024–2025.

• Starting School Year 2025–2026, the allowance increases to ₱10,000 annually.

• It applies to all DepEd public school teachers, including guidance counselors, librarians, vocational instructors, ALS teachers, and coordinators.

This ensures that teachers won’t need to dig too deep into their own pockets just to keep lessons going smoothly.

Why Is This Allowance Important?

Teaching goes beyond the classroom—it requires preparation, creativity, and yes, expenses. The allowance helps cover:

• Chalks, pens, markers, and other supplies.

• Printing or photocopying learning materials.

• Incidental costs during school activities.

• Support for digital and alternative learning methods.

What makes this act unique is that the allowance is tax-free and teachers don’t need to submit receipts. It’s considered an outright expense, meaning they have full flexibility on how to use it for teaching.

Who Qualifies and Who Doesn’t?

Not every teacher will automatically get the allowance. The law outlines clear inclusions and exclusions.

Qualified to receive:

• All teachers with teaching loads, regardless of hours.

• Guidance counselors, librarians, ALS teachers, and community learning facilitators.

• School heads with teaching loads.

Not qualified if:

• On indefinite leave, study leave, or AWOL.

• Assigned to purely non-teaching functions.

• Already retired or no longer in service at the start of the school year.

For teachers who retire or resume duty mid-year, there’s a pro-rated allowance system so they still get a fair share.

When Will Teachers Get the Allowance?

Timing matters. The law specifies that the allowance will be released not earlier than the official start of the school year. However, in special cases—like natural disasters or pandemics—the Secretary of Education may approve early release.

This is particularly helpful during challenging times when teachers need immediate resources to adjust learning delivery.

Interesting Facts About the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act

1. It’s the first law in the Philippines to institutionalize a permanent teaching allowance.

2. The allowance doubles by 2025, showing strong government support for education.

3. Alternative Learning System (ALS) and mobile teachers are included—groups often overlooked in past benefits.

4. DepEd doesn’t require receipts—rare for government-issued financial support.

These details show how the act tries to balance accountability with teacher convenience.

My Personal Take

I think this law is long overdue. Teachers have always been resourceful, often paying out of their own salaries just to make classrooms engaging. With the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, at least there’s recognition that quality education requires proper investment—not only in facilities but also in the hands of teachers themselves.

Why It Matters for Education

At the end of the day, this law isn’t just about money—it’s about valuing teachers. By lightening their financial burden, the government allows them to focus more on what really matters: guiding students.

The Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act sets a hopeful precedent for future policies that put teachers at the heart of education reform. After all, when teachers are supported, students benefit the most.

What do you think—will this allowance be enough to help teachers, or should there be more programs like this in the future? Share your thoughts in the comments!

A Closer Look at the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act

Have you ever wondered how schools are stepping up to support students’ mental health? With the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, things are changing in a big way. This law makes sure that learners and teachers get the support they need—not just academically, but emotionally too.

What Is the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act?

Republic Act No. 12080, also called the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, focuses on protecting and promoting the mental health of learners and school personnel. It recognizes that education isn’t only about lessons and exams—it’s also about the well-being of those inside the classroom.

This Act became official in March 2025 after the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) were published. From that moment, schools were directed to adopt programs that strengthen mental health care and provide necessary support systems.

Key Features of the Law

This Act introduces several important changes to the way schools handle mental health:

• School-Based Mental Health Program (SMHP): A comprehensive plan to promote awareness, prevent issues, and provide support.

• Care Centers in schools: Every basic education school must have a Care Center equipped with facilities and run by professionals.

• Mental Health and Well-Being Offices (MHWO): Established in every Schools Division Office, led by qualified counselors.

• New plantilla positions: Guidance and counseling roles are expanded to ensure there are enough experts to serve learners and teachers.

These features ensure that mental health is not treated as an afterthought but as an essential part of school life.

Interesting Facts About the Act

Here are some things that stand out:

• It creates Care Centers by converting existing guidance offices into full-fledged mental health hubs.

• It emphasizes confidentiality—conversations with counselors are protected, except in cases of imminent harm or legal obligations.

• It promotes career development by offering scholarships for those who want to become school counselors.

• It requires schools to include mental health awareness in the curriculum, such as the Homeroom Guidance Program.

Why This Matters for Students and Teachers

Mental health struggles can affect anyone. By having proper systems in place, schools can:

• Identify learners at risk of dropping out.

• Provide psychological first aid during emergencies.

• Train teachers to spot early warning signs of mental health concerns.

• Remove stigma around seeking help.

This means both students and teachers can work and learn in a healthier, more supportive environment.

Personal Insight

As someone who has seen how school pressures can affect young people, I think this law is a big step forward. Having Care Centers and trained counselors makes schools feel like safer spaces, not just classrooms. I personally believe that when mental health is prioritized, academic success naturally follows.

Final Thoughts

The Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act shows that education is about more than grades—it’s about raising strong, resilient individuals. With Care Centers, trained counselors, and mental health awareness in schools, the future of learning looks brighter.

What do you think—should mental health programs be as common as math or science in schools? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Why the National Vision Screening Act Matters for Every Filipino Child

Have you ever noticed how kids sometimes squint at books or move closer to the TV? It makes you wonder how many children silently struggle with poor eyesight. The National Vision Screening Act is one big step to make sure that young learners in the Philippines don’t get left behind because of undetected vision problems.

What Is the National Vision Screening Act?

Republic Act No. 11358, or the National Vision Screening Act, was signed into law to ensure every kindergarten child in the Philippines undergoes vision screening. This law recognizes that good eyesight is essential for learning, especially in the early years of education.

Under this program, the Department of Education (DepEd) takes the lead in conducting annual vision tests for kindergarten pupils. These screenings are not full eye exams but simple tests to detect possible issues early. Children who show signs of vision problems are then referred to certified eye care practitioners for further evaluation.

Why Early Vision Screening Is Important

Catching eye problems early can make a huge difference in a child’s learning journey. Imagine trying to read, write, or even follow along in class with blurry vision—it’s like running a race with your shoelaces tied together!

Here are some key reasons why early screening is so valuable:

• 80% of classroom learning is visual. Kids rely heavily on their eyes when learning to read and write.

• Many vision problems develop silently. Children often don’t realize they have poor eyesight because they think it’s normal.

• Early treatment is more effective. The earlier an issue is found, the easier it is to manage or correct.

• It promotes equal learning opportunities. No child should fall behind just because they can’t see clearly.

How the Program Works in Schools

The National Vision Screening Program (NVSP) is rolled out nationwide, with DepEd coordinating closely with the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Eye Research Institute (PERI). Here’s how it plays out in schools:

• Annual Screenings: All public kindergarten pupils undergo vision tests using a standardized kit.

• Training for Teachers: DepEd personnel are trained to conduct these screenings properly.

• Referral System: Kids who need more help are referred to professionals for proper care.

• Database Creation: Results are recorded to monitor trends and plan better health programs.

Even private schools are encouraged to implement their own screenings based on NVSP standards, ensuring that every child has access to the same care.

The Role of Health Agencies

This is not just a DepEd project—it’s a team effort.

• DepEd leads the program, sets policies, and ensures uniform implementation across schools.

• PERI trains screeners and provides research on childhood vision problems.

• DOH supports with technical expertise and health recommendations.

• PhilHealth is tasked to create a benefit package that can help cover treatments and rehabilitation for children with diagnosed eye conditions.

Together, these agencies create a safety net so no child’s eye problem goes unnoticed or untreated.

Interesting Facts About Vision Screening

• The law took effect on December 17, 2024, after being published in the Official Gazette.

• A budget of ₱10 million was allocated to PERI for the program’s implementation.

• Donations and grants for this program are exempted from donor’s tax, encouraging more support.

• Vision screening is not considered “optometry practice,” so trained school staff can help detect early warning signs.

Personal Insight

As someone who wears glasses, I can imagine how tough it would have been to go through school without knowing I needed them. I love the idea that kids today have a system that can catch these problems before they affect learning. It feels like a small but powerful way to set children up for success.

Building a Brighter Future Through Clearer Vision

The National Vision Screening Act ensures that every Filipino child starts their education journey with the best possible eyesight. With schools, health agencies, and families working together, fewer kids will slip through the cracks because of undetected vision issues.

What do you think—should similar health screening programs be expanded to cover more areas of child development?

Why DepEd Memorandum No. 075, s. 2025 Matters: Understanding the Longer School Calendar

Have you ever wondered why the Philippine school year sometimes feels longer than usual? With DepEd Memorandum No. 075, s. 2025, the rules on the school calendar are now clearer than ever. It’s all about balancing learning time, holidays, and unexpected events like typhoons.

What Is DepEd Memorandum No. 075, s. 2025?

This memorandum is all about the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11480, which amends RA 7797. In simple terms, it gives schools the authority to stretch the school calendar from 200 class days to a maximum of 220.

The goal is to give students enough time to learn, while allowing adjustments for emergencies. This ensures that no matter what happens, learning remains the top priority.

Why the Change Was Made

The Philippines faces unique challenges in education. Typhoons, floods, and even pandemics can interrupt school schedules. By extending the maximum number of days, DepEd gives schools flexibility.

Here are some key points:

• The school year must start between the first Monday of June and August 31.

• Class days canceled due to calamities can still be counted within the 220-day limit.

• The President, upon DepEd’s recommendation, may adjust school opening dates in emergencies.

This change ensures that the quality of education doesn’t suffer, even in difficult situations.

Interesting Facts About the Longer School Calendar

1. No extra pay for teachers – Public school teachers are already on a 12-month salary, so extending the calendar does not automatically mean added compensation.

2. Co-curricular activities count – Events like educational trips, school programs, and certain non-graded activities are considered part of class days.

3. Make-up classes allowed – Saturday sessions can be used if schools need to catch up.

4. Flexibility for private and international schools – The rules apply to both, but schools with special franchises must still align with DepEd policies.

How Schools Will Apply the Rules

Schools will adjust their yearly calendars to meet the requirement. That means:

• Maintaining the required total class hours per day (no shortcuts).

• Scheduling around holidays, breaks, and observances.

• Issuing regional or school-level adjustments when needed.

DepEd may also release additional policies to refine how these rules are implemented.

What This Means for Students and Parents

For students, this means a more stable learning schedule. For parents, it means preparing for possible longer school years, especially when natural disasters strike. While it may sound tiring, it ensures kids don’t miss important lessons.

• More learning days = better mastery of subjects.

• Consistency in class hours = smoother progress.

• Flexible school openings = better safety during crises.

Personal Insight

I remember how my own classes were once cut short because of back-to-back typhoons. At first, we were excited about the unexpected vacation. But later, it felt like we were rushing through lessons. Having up to 220 days makes sense—it gives everyone breathing room without sacrificing learning quality.

Wrapping It Up

DepEd Memorandum No. 075, s. 2025 is a reminder that education adapts to real-life situations. By allowing up to 220 school days, the law ensures that learning continues despite interruptions.

Do you think a longer school calendar will help students, or will it just add stress? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear them!