GSIS Net Income Hits ₱112 Billion: What This Means for You

A few months ago, I was sitting in a coffee shop, feeling uneasy as I scrolled through my retirement statements. “Will everything add up?” I wondered. Then I came across the news that the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) had recorded a net income of ₱112 billion as of September 2025. My anxiety eased a little—because if the country’s biggest pension fund is thriving, maybe there’s hope for my own future too.

In this post, I’ll unpack what this achievement means, why it matters to ordinary members and pensioners, and what lessons we can all draw from it—whether you’re in the Philippines, the U.S., or anywhere else.

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What the Numbers Tell Us

According to multiple reports, GSIS posted a ₱112 billion net income for the first nine months of 2025—₱35 billion above its target. That’s a strong signal of solid management and discipline.

Here’s a closer look:

• Total revenue: ₱260 billion (vs. ₱241.8 billion target)

• Total expenses: ₱148 billion (vs. ₱165 billion target)

• Administrative costs: only 2.5%, far below the 12% limit

• Total assets: ₱1.93 trillion, up 5.7% from 2024

(Sources: BusinessWorld, Inquirer, GMA News)

Did You Know?
GSIS’s administrative costs are among the lowest in the region—proof that effective governance doesn’t have to mean bloated spending.

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Why It Matters to You (and Me)

Sure, ₱112 billion sounds impressive. But why should you—or I—care?

1. It builds trust. When GSIS performs well, it reassures members that their contributions are being managed responsibly.

2. It supports the economy. A financially healthy pension fund attracts investment confidence and stability.

3. It sets a model. The discipline behind GSIS’s success—smart budgeting, tight cost control—mirrors habits we can all apply to our own finances.

I’ll admit, I wasn’t always this mindful. For years, I treated my savings like a “someday” problem, assuming everything would work itself out. It didn’t—until I started managing my money the way GSIS manages its funds: tracking, adjusting, and staying accountable.

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My Mistakes and the Lessons I Learned

• Mistake #1: I ignored my savings for too long. I thought automation meant “no attention needed.” Turns out, I was wrong. Lesson: Regular reviews keep your finances alive.

• Mistake #2: I assumed big funds were always safe. But size doesn’t guarantee safety—oversight does. Lesson: Never stop asking questions, even of institutions you trust.

Seeing GSIS’s success reminded me that consistency and transparency matter—both for public funds and personal ones.

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The Bigger Picture: Strength, Transparency, and Balance

GSIS’s strong 2025 results highlight three powerful themes:

1. Resilience

In an uncertain global economy, consistent performance signals preparedness and risk awareness.

2. Transparency

GSIS has emphasized “iron-clad safeguards” in its investment process—proof that integrity pays dividends.

3. Vigilance

Even thriving institutions face scrutiny. Reports of alleged irregularities show that accountability must remain constant.

The same goes for us: strong doesn’t mean invincible. Stay curious. Stay watchful.

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Mini Q&A

Q1: Will GSIS’s profit increase my pension?
Not automatically. But strong performance ensures your benefits are backed by a stable fund.

Q2: How can I protect my own finances?
Track, review, and diversify—treat your personal budget like a mini-investment fund.

Q3: Can GSIS’s success influence the wider economy?
Yes. Strong public funds boost investor confidence and help stabilize national finances.

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Conclusion

When I first read about GSIS’s ₱112 billion net income, I didn’t just feel proud—I felt reassured. It reminded me that even in uncertain times, careful management and consistency can create real comfort for people like us.

If GSIS can surpass expectations through discipline and smart choices, maybe we can, too. So, what’s one change you’ll make in your own “fund management” this week? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear it.

Turning Empty Schools into Classrooms: DepEd’s Creative Fix for the Shortage

Imagine thousands of classrooms sitting idle while students study in crowded hallways or under tents. That’s the irony the Department of Education (DepEd) wants to solve with its new idea—leasing unused private schools and properties. This bold move could be the most practical shortcut to tackling the country’s long-standing classroom shortage.

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The Classroom Shortage That Sparked Innovation

In 2022, the Philippines faced a staggering classroom deficit of over 165,000. Many schools were forced to implement shifting schedules, squeeze learners into cramped spaces, or hold classes in makeshift areas like covered courts and barangay halls.

For decades, the government’s solution was simple: build more classrooms. But that approach often hit delays—slow procurement, limited funds, and the lengthy process of construction permits. Each year that passed meant more students sharing desks meant for two, and more teachers improvising their way through the chaos.

That’s why DepEd, under the leadership of Secretary Sonny Angara, is taking a creative detour. Instead of waiting years for new buildings, the agency wants to lease idle private schools and properties that already meet—or can quickly meet—DepEd’s classroom standards.

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How DepEd’s Classroom Leasing Idea Works

The plan, developed with the Student First Coalition (SFC) and several government partners, begins with a Classroom Market Scoping Activity. Think of it as DepEd’s version of real estate scouting—identifying closed schools, vacant campuses, and unused private buildings that can be turned into classrooms.

During the activity, DepEd shared its Standard Classroom Specifications and Leasing Pilot Program to real estate giants like Colliers, Leechiu, Santos Knight Frank, and Jones Lang LaSalle Inc. Representatives from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, BCDA, and even the AFP Corps of Engineers also joined the talks.

Their goal: find spaces that could safely, quickly, and affordably house students.

One of the first properties on DepEd’s radar is the Pita Property in Laguna—a 1,385-square-meter campus formerly known as the Rainbow Institute of Learning. It’s been closed since 2020 but already has seven classrooms, a cafeteria, an office, and a covered court. Even better, it’s only two kilometers from Don Manuel Rivera Memorial Integrated National High School, which currently lacks 22 classrooms.

With just a few months of preparation, this idle campus could be buzzing with learners again.

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The Benefits of Classroom Leasing

DepEd’s leasing concept offers more than just a quick fix. It’s a strategic innovation with ripple effects for education and the economy alike.

Here’s why it makes sense:

• Speed: Instead of waiting years for construction, classrooms can be ready in six months or less.

• Cost-effectiveness: Leasing costs far less than building new structures from scratch.

• Sustainability: It reduces waste by repurposing existing infrastructure.

• Community Revitalization: Reviving closed schools or idle properties boosts local economies and prevents urban decay.

• Flexibility: Leased classrooms can be relocated or adjusted as population and enrollment trends shift.

Undersecretary Ronald Mendoza summed it up perfectly: “This effort turns the classroom shortage crisis into an opportunity for collaboration and innovation.”

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Addressing Concerns and Challenges

Of course, bold ideas come with questions. Critics wonder: will leasing be sustainable in the long run? What about safety, maintenance, and legal hurdles?

DepEd has been quick to clarify that this leasing program won’t replace traditional infrastructure efforts. It’s a complementary strategy—a way to fill urgent gaps while continuing to build permanent schools under projects like the Flexible School Building Implementation Plan.

Legal and safety frameworks are also being developed. DepEd ensures that all leased spaces must meet standard classroom design, ventilation, and accessibility requirements. The agency is working closely with engineers, local government units, and real estate experts to ensure compliance.

Moreover, partnerships with the private sector can open doors for corporate social responsibility initiatives, allowing developers to contribute to education reform while making productive use of dormant assets.

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Why This Matters for Students and Teachers

For teachers and students, this initiative could bring tangible relief. Imagine fewer class shifts, better learning conditions, and more time for actual instruction. Students wouldn’t need to travel far or share classrooms with other grade levels.

Teachers, on the other hand, could manage their classes more effectively—with proper space for visual aids, group work, and meaningful learning experiences.

In many ways, leasing classrooms is about restoring dignity to the learning environment. It’s a reminder that solutions to big problems don’t always have to be big; sometimes, they just have to be smart and swift.

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DepEd’s Classroom Leasing Program: A Smart Step Forward

DepEd’s initiative aligns with a broader global trend where governments explore public-private partnerships (PPPs) to address infrastructure gaps. Countries like India and Indonesia have used similar models to expand access to education facilities in fast-growing areas.

By exploring partnerships with real estate developers and local governments, DepEd is turning idle properties into opportunities—not just for learners, but for communities that benefit from reactivated spaces.

This approach also encourages data-driven decision-making. Through the market scoping activity, DepEd can map where shortages are worst, match them with nearby facilities, and roll out adaptive solutions faster than traditional bureaucracy allows.

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Personal Insight

As someone who has seen firsthand how overcrowded classrooms affect both learning and teaching, I find this move refreshingly practical. It acknowledges that while we wait for grand infrastructure plans, students still need spaces now. Repurposing what already exists isn’t just efficient—it’s empathetic. It puts learners first, right where they should be.

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Conclusion

DepEd’s plan to lease private schools and underused properties could reshape how we think about public education infrastructure in the Philippines. It’s a pragmatic blend of speed, resourcefulness, and collaboration—exactly what’s needed to tackle a problem that’s been decades in the making.

Do you think leasing idle schools is the key to solving our classroom shortage—or should the focus stay on long-term construction projects? Share your thoughts below!

Why DepEd’s 261 Interagency Roles May Be Holding Back Philippine Education

Imagine trying to focus on teaching your students while juggling hundreds of meetings, reports, and projects—none of which directly involve the classroom. That’s the reality the Department of Education (DepEd) faces today, now entangled in 261 interagency bodies across government. While collaboration sounds good on paper, this growing web of duties may be stretching the agency—and its teachers—too thin.

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The Expanding Web of Interagency Work

DepEd’s involvement in 261 interagency bodies is no small matter. Education Secretary Sonny Angara himself described it as “coordination spread thin,” during a recent hearing with the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2).

The department chairs at least 20 of these councils, and jointly manages 21 more with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). That’s a steep rise from just 63 interagency roles reported in EDCOM 2’s Year One Report.

This expansion was meant to improve collaboration across sectors—health, welfare, labor, and more—but the unintended result is that DepEd’s focus on basic education has weakened. The agency is now pulled in too many directions at once.

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When Education Lost Its Center

Back in 1994, the old Department of Education, Culture, and Sports (DECS) was divided into three: DepEd for basic education, CHED for higher education, and TESDA for technical skills development.

The goal was simple: let each agency specialize and do its job well.

But fast-forward 30 years later, and the number of functionally illiterate Filipinos has nearly doubled—from 14.5 million in the 1990s to 24.8 million today, according to the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS).

Why the decline? Experts point to “mission overload.” DepEd’s scope has ballooned due to more than 150 new laws and executive issuances since 2001, many of which fall outside its core mission of teaching children how to read, write, and think critically.

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Teachers Doing Everything but Teaching

Perhaps the most visible consequence of this overload is felt inside the classroom.

Teachers are now doing tasks that have little to do with lesson plans or grading papers. EDCOM 2’s Executive Director Karol Mark Yee listed some examples:

• Conducting vision screening under Republic Act 11358

• Coordinating 4Ps compliance under Republic Act 11310

• Running school feeding programs

• Managing canteens

• Leading Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) projects

• Implementing the National Drug Education Program (NDEP)

These may sound like helpful programs—and they are—but collectively, they eat up hours meant for actual instruction.

In many schools, teachers double as social workers, health aides, and administrative clerks. Without enough support staff, they stay late, file reports on weekends, and still try to teach effectively the next day.

It’s no wonder burnout is so common in the profession.

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DepEd’s Plan to Refocus and Rebalance

Recognizing the strain, Secretary Angara and his team are now trying to streamline. Their plan is to limit DepEd’s participation to “high-impact, mission-aligned” interagency bodies that directly affect education outcomes.

To make this happen, DepEd is forming an Education Cluster under the Office of the President—essentially a central hub that filters which collaborations truly matter.

Other measures include:

• Assigning senior DepEd officials to represent the department in key interagency meetings.

• Hiring Administrative Officers (AOs) in every public school by 2026 to take over paperwork, coordination, and reporting duties.

If successful, this could finally give teachers what they’ve long asked for: time to teach.

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The Price Tag of Unfunded Mandates

Another challenge is financial. DepEd may be legally responsible for dozens of programs, but many come without full funding.

Among the underfunded initiatives are:

• The Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program under RA 12028

• The Alternative Learning System (ALS) under RA 11510

• The Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act under RA 12080

According to Angara, it would take over ₱1 trillion to fully fund all education-related laws currently on the books.

Senator Loren Legarda highlighted this funding gap during the same hearing, pointing out that the law mandates ₱30.5 billion for ALS implementation, yet only ₱78.4 million has been allocated. That’s less than 1% of what’s needed.

Without proper funding, even the best-intentioned laws remain paper promises.

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Why Coordination Still Matters—If Done Right

Of course, DepEd cannot—and should not—work in isolation. Education overlaps naturally with health, social welfare, and technology. Programs like feeding initiatives or disaster readiness training can greatly benefit students when implemented efficiently.

But there’s a limit. Coordination works only when roles are clear and responsibilities are shared fairly. When every problem ends up on DepEd’s desk, the system breaks down.

Instead of doing everything, the agency needs to focus on what it does best: ensuring that every Filipino child can read, write, compute, and think independently by the time they leave school.

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Personal Insight

As someone who has seen teachers multitask their way through endless forms, meetings, and outreach drives, I understand the toll it takes. Teachers enter the profession to shape minds, not to shuffle paperwork. A focused DepEd, supported by clear roles and adequate staffing, could bring back the joy of teaching—and the learning outcomes we’ve been missing.

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Conclusion

DepEd’s 261 interagency roles reveal both the complexity and the confusion in the country’s education system. While collaboration is essential, spreading the department too thin undermines its main purpose: delivering quality basic education to every Filipino child. Refocusing on its core mission, hiring support staff, and fully funding key programs could finally give education in the Philippines the clarity and strength it needs.

Do you think reducing DepEd’s interagency work will help teachers focus more on students? Share your thoughts below.

Why the National Online Spelling Battle 2026 Is More Than Just a Contest of Words

Can you spell “opportunity”? Because that’s exactly what the National Online Spelling Battle 2026 offers to students across the Philippines—a chance to shine beyond the classroom. It’s not just about letters and syllables; it’s about language, confidence, and connection in a digital age.

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What Is the National Online Spelling Battle 2026?

The National Online Spelling Battle 2026 (NOSB) is an inclusive, nationwide spelling competition organized by the Lyceum De Abuid Inc. It’s set to take place on January 17, 2026, through Zoom and the Gascloud Learning Management System—a setup that makes participation possible for learners from any corner of the country.

Unlike traditional spelling bees that require travel and expenses, NOSB brings the competition right to students’ screens. Whether you’re in a public or private school, in Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao, the battle is just a click away.

And what makes it special? It’s guided by the Department of Education (DepEd) through Advisory No. 215, s. 2025—ensuring that participation is purely voluntary, free of charge, and compliant with policies on time-on-task and student engagement.

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A Digital Stage for Young Word Warriors

At its core, the competition aims to:

• Promote English proficiency and spelling mastery among Grades 1–12 learners.

• Provide equal access to academic competitions regardless of location or background.

• Encourage literacy and critical thinking through fun and healthy rivalry.

This online format turns spelling into something bigger than memorization. Students not only improve their vocabulary but also build composure, digital confidence, and communication skills—all essential for modern learning.

Surprising Facts About Spelling Competitions

1. Spelling bees date back to 1824 when the first recorded contest was held in the U.S. The Philippines has since created its own version, blending English mastery with Filipino flair.

2. The human brain recognizes word patterns faster than individual letters—so top spellers often visualize entire word shapes, not just sequences.

3. Online spelling contests have higher participation rates because they remove geographical and financial barriers.

4. Spelling proficiency correlates with reading comprehension—strong spellers often excel in writing and vocabulary as well.

5. Digital competitions improve multitasking and focus, as students navigate both the pressure of live sessions and online tools.

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The NOSB Experience: How It Works

Competitors join via Zoom and complete rounds through the Gascloud LMS, ensuring a seamless and transparent process. Words range from simple to tongue-twisting, with live moderators guiding each level.

Every round tests more than memory—it’s a blend of listening, reasoning, and speed. Participants hear a word, sometimes its definition and usage, and must spell it correctly within the given time.

Read DepEd Advisory Advisory No. 215, s. 2025

What Makes NOSB Stand Out

• Fully Online Setup – Students can compete from home or school without travel costs.

• Inclusive Participation – Open to all learners, regardless of school type or region.

• Educational Value – Strengthens language mastery while building poise under pressure.

• No Fees or Collections – In compliance with the Ganzon Law (R.A. 5546) and DepEd’s no-collection policy.

• Aligned with DepEd Orders – Ensuring academic integrity and voluntary participation.

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Why Spelling Still Matters in the Digital Era

In a world filled with autocorrect and predictive text, spelling might seem like a lost art. But it’s more relevant than ever. Correct spelling strengthens communication clarity, academic performance, and professional credibility.

Moreover, joining a national spelling competition teaches life lessons beyond vocabulary:

• Discipline – Regular practice builds strong study habits.

• Resilience – Every misspelled word becomes a stepping stone to growth.

• Confidence – Speaking and competing publicly cultivates self-assurance.

• Community – Students form bonds with peers who share the same passion for learning.

For Filipino learners, NOSB becomes a stage to prove that English proficiency and digital literacy can go hand in hand.

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A Bridge Between Technology and Learning

The shift to online academic events like NOSB shows how Philippine education continues to evolve. By merging tradition with technology, competitions like this foster 21st-century skills.

They reflect a broader goal: education that adapts, connects, and empowers. Instead of confining excellence to classrooms, NOSB makes it accessible nationwide—proof that learning doesn’t stop at school gates.

And for teachers and parents, it’s a proud reminder that small contests can spark big dreams.

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Personal Insight

As someone who has watched countless learners rise from shy participants to confident communicators, I can say that competitions like the National Online Spelling Battle 2026 are more than just contests—they’re stepping stones. There’s something magical about seeing a student spell out a word they once struggled with, their eyes lighting up with pride. It’s not just a test of memory; it’s a celebration of growth.

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Conclusion

The National Online Spelling Battle 2026 is proof that language learning can thrive in the digital age. It gives Filipino students a platform to explore their potential, test their limits, and celebrate the power of words. So, are you ready to spell your way to victory and join this growing community of young language champions?

Empowering Future Innovators: Inside the 12th National Battle of Math and Science Champions

What happens when the sharpest young minds in the Philippines meet to test their wits in Math and Science? The result isn’t just competition—it’s collaboration, discovery, and inspiration. The 12th National Battle of Math and Science Champions is more than an academic event; it’s a celebration of innovation, perseverance, and the Filipino learner’s boundless potential.

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A Gathering of the Country’s Brightest Minds

Every February, the Association of Science and Mathematics Educators of Philippine Private Schools (ASMEPPS) brings together top achievers from all over the nation. This 2026, Easter College in Baguio City will transform into a hub of energy, curiosity, and excellence as students and coaches gather for two days of intense contests and creative exploration.

The event isn’t limited to quiz bees—it’s a holistic academic experience. Students will engage in:

• Math and Science Quizzes – testing knowledge from basic principles to advanced problem-solving.

• Marathon of Skills and Talents – showcasing innovation, communication, and teamwork.

• Trivia Challenges – proving that learning can be fast-paced and fun.

What makes the event special is its inclusivity. Both public and private schools can join, and participation is entirely voluntary, ensuring a focus on genuine interest rather than obligation.

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The Theme That Matters: Empowering Future Innovators

The main keyword—12th National Battle of Math and Science Champions—reflects more than just a competition title. This year’s theme, “Empowering Future Innovators: Strengthening Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education for a Sustainable World,” perfectly captures its mission.

In an age where technology shapes nearly every aspect of life, developing young minds in STEM isn’t optional—it’s essential. The contest encourages students to think beyond formulas and theories, urging them to connect scientific ideas to real-world sustainability.

It’s also an opportunity to strengthen what Filipino students already have in abundance:

• Creativity and adaptability – key traits for solving modern-day challenges.

• Collaboration – as success in science and math often depends on teamwork.

• Resilience – a hallmark of every Filipino learner striving despite limitations.

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Why Competitions Like This Matter

Academic contests often go beyond medals and certificates. They build confidence, spark lifelong curiosity, and nurture leadership. The National Battle of Math and Science Champions helps:

1. Promote Academic Excellence

   • By providing a national stage for young achievers, it motivates others to aim higher.

2. Encourage Healthy Competition

   • Students learn the value of discipline and teamwork.

3. Build Networks Among Educators

   • Teachers share strategies, form partnerships, and bring new teaching insights to their schools.

4. Highlight STEM as a Lifelong Path

   • Many former participants have gone on to pursue careers in engineering, medicine, data science, and research.

These competitions remind us that excellence doesn’t bloom overnight—it grows through guidance, practice, and encouragement.

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Surprising Facts About the National Battle of Math and Science Champions

1. Started with a small group of educators. The very first ASMEPPS contest involved fewer than 20 schools. Today, hundreds participate across regions.

2. Baguio City has hosted multiple times. Its cool climate and strong academic culture make it a fitting home for such events.

3. Winners often become peer mentors. Many top scorers later coach their schoolmates, creating a cycle of excellence.

4. It aligns with DepEd’s “No-Collection Policy.” Ensuring fairness, no student or teacher is required to pay to join.

5. It supports sustainability. Each year’s theme integrates global goals like renewable energy, digital literacy, or environmental awareness.

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How to Join the 2026 Competition

If your school has top performers in regional contests, they may already qualify for the national stage. Here’s what participants need to know:

• Event Dates: February 20–21, 2026

• Venue: Easter College, Easter Road, Guisad, Baguio City

• Who Can Join:

  • Winners and qualifiers of ASMEPPS Regional Math and Science events

  • Top three division or association-level winners from both public and private schools

• Registration Link: https://asmepps.gascloud.tech/registration

• Contact Persons:

  • Prof. Eloisa E. Olivera – ASMEPPS President (0906-013-2415 / 0999-991-4281)

  • Dr. Santos T. Castillo Jr. – Vice President (0977-701-7576)

  • Dr. Ide A. Liwanen – DepEd Benguet (0938-646-4712)

Participation follows DepEd’s official policies to ensure learning remains the priority while supporting extracurricular engagement.

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The Spirit of STEM: Beyond Books and Boards

STEM isn’t just about solving equations or memorizing scientific terms—it’s about curiosity. When learners are challenged in a competition, they develop critical thinking, creativity, and confidence. These skills later translate into innovations that benefit society.

In the Philippines, where young talent often outpaces available resources, events like this help level the playing field. They give provincial schools a chance to shine just as brightly as big-city institutions. And with today’s emphasis on sustainable development, every new idea counts.

Click here to read Advisory No. 216, s. 2025

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Personal Insight

As a former educator, I’ve seen how joining academic contests transforms students. Some who once doubted their abilities came back from these competitions with newfound drive—not just to win, but to learn more. There’s something special about watching a student’s eyes light up when a tough problem suddenly makes sense. It reminds me why education is, at its core, an act of hope.

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Conclusion

The 12th National Battle of Math and Science Champions stands as a testament to what Filipino learners can achieve when passion meets opportunity. It celebrates intellect, teamwork, and innovation—values that shape the nation’s future.

Will your school take part in this inspiring journey toward a more sustainable, knowledge-driven world? Share your thoughts or tell us which STEM field excites you the most in the comments below.