Transport strike won't stop education! DepEd to implement distance learning

The upcoming weeklong transport strike is causing concern for parents and students, but the Department of Education (DepEd) has assured that classes will continue as scheduled.

The DepEd spokesperson, Michael Poa, stated that they will not be suspending classes despite the strike. Instead, schools may need to switch to distance learning or other alternative delivery modes to ensure that students who can't attend in-person classes won't be marked absent.

Regional directors are already conducting scans to determine the number of learners and teachers that will be affected in the National Capital Region. They will then give instructions to affected schools on how to switch to distance learning, which may include assigning activities or other research work as a mode of alternative delivery.

Self-learning modules are still being used as supplementary teaching materials, and the goal is to ensure that the education of our youth is not delayed.

The Teachers' Dignity Coalition (TDC) also suggested that if local government units (LGUs) won't suspend schooling during the transport strike, DepEd may opt to use alternative delivery modes like modular or online teaching for affected learners. TDC National Chairperson Benjo Basas also emphasized that teachers should be allowed to use the work-from-home scheme for that week.

The transport strike is expected to cause significant disruptions to commuters, with many students and workers having to find alternative ways to get to school or work. The DepEd's announcement provides some relief to parents who may be worried about their children's education being affected.

While distance learning may not be an ideal alternative to in-person classes, it is a necessary measure to ensure that students continue to receive quality education even in the face of disruptions.

The use of alternative delivery modes, such as self-learning modules and online teaching, has become increasingly important during the pandemic, and they will likely continue to be an essential tool for education even after the pandemic is over.

The TDC's suggestion that teachers should also be allowed to use the work-from-home scheme is a crucial point. Teachers are just as affected by the transport strike as students, and they also need to find alternative ways to get to school. By allowing them to work from home, they can continue to teach their students without having to worry about commuting during the strike.

Teachers Demand Fair Career Progression System And End To Favoritism In DepEd!

The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines is urging the Department of Education (DepEd) to implement a fair and inclusive career progression system for public school teachers.

The group submitted a set of recommendations to the DepEd for the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the career progression of teachers. ACT is asking DepEd to release the draft of Executive Order 174, which establishes an expanded career progression system for public school teachers.

One of the recommendations of the ACT is the implementation of uniform guidelines and qualification standards across the country. This will address the current situation wherein regions and divisions use different guidelines and qualification standards for promotions that "lay them vulnerable to unfair practices such as favoritism and abuse of processes."

Moreover, ACT is pushing for promotions to be based on actual qualifications of teachers and not limited by ladderized or quantum leap promotions. For instance, teachers currently occupying Teacher III positions who are eligible for promotion to Master Teacher (MT) positions "should be promoted as such, and should no longer be required" to pass through the Teacher IV, V, VI, and VII positions.

The group also wants open promotions that are not limited by the number of vacant items, instead, current items occupied will be upgraded or reclassified based on the teachers' current actual qualifications, and can be further upgraded as the teachers' skills and qualifications progress.

Furthermore, ACT is calling for a clear and fair career progression plan for Head Teachers, who have not been mentioned in EO 174. "In no way should they be left out or disadvantaged in the career progression process," said Vladimer Quetua, the Chairman of ACT.

ACT is also pushing for the representation of the sole and exclusive negotiating agent of public school teachers in the body crafting the IRR for EO 174 and other policy-making bodies concerning the career progression program.

ACT emphasized that there should be a sufficient budget for the maximum implementation of the career progression program.

The group also wants more slots for teacher representation in the school/division promotion committees to accommodate both the representatives from the teachers' union and teachers' federation/association if the two are distinct and separate bodies.

DepEd should also accord due and favorable points to years of experience, remove the maximum limit of five points for years of experience.

DepEd Revokes Accreditation of MTSLAI Under APDS Program

The Department of Education (DepEd) has revoked the accreditation of the Manila Teachers' Savings and Loan Association, Inc. (MTSLAI) under its Automatic Payroll Deduction System (APDS) program. DepEd issued the order pursuant to its DO 020, s. 2021, which requires DepEd to regulate the use of its APDS program to ensure the orderly implementation of salary deductions and the protection and promotion of the welfare of all teachers and employees.

MTSLAI is one of the non-stock savings and loan associations (NSSLAs) that have been granted the privilege of accreditation under the DepEd APDS program for the period of August 6, 2021, until December 31, 2025. However, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) informed DepEd that it had revoked the license to operate of MTSLAI under the Revised Non-Stock Saving and Loan Association Act of 1997 for willful violation of the law and other corresponding BSP regulations. BSP also imposed monetary penalties on MTSLAI.

Under DO 020, s. 2021 and the Terms and Conditions of the APDS Accreditation, accreditation shall be revoked upon commission of grounds classified as serious. One of the serious grounds is when the Certificate of Authority (license to operate) of the entity is canceled or terminated by the BSP.

The BSP's revocation of MTSLAI's license to operate as an NSSLA, which attained finality pursuant to MB Resolution No. 1676, s.2022, and its enforcement thereof, all produced a binding effect upon the DepEd, necessarily resulting in the revocation of MTSLAI's accreditation, as it renders the latter ineligible to participate in the APDS.

As a result of the revocation of its BSP license as an NSSLA, MTSLAI lost all its privileges to do business as an NSSLA under RA 8367. MTSLAI is not allowed to grant new business, e.g., mutual aid system membership and new loans beginning November 25,2022. For mutual aid system membership dues and/or contributions, collection of deductions already incorporated in the APDS as of the date of revocation shall continue for the next three months or until requested for stoppage by the concerned employees, whichever comes earlier. Thereafter, the corresponding APDS Codes and Sub-Codes, if any, are automatically canceled.

For loans granted before November 25, 2022, the collection of deductions for these existing loans in the APDS for MTSLAI or any salary deduction on behalf of MTSLAI shall continue up to the termination dates reflected in the pay slip and until fully paid. Thereafter, the corresponding APDS Codes and Sub Codes, if any, are automatically canceled.

The Finance Service and the APDS Task Force are directed to ensure that no DepEd employee shall be allowed to apply for mutual aid system membership and/or contributions or loan with MTSLAI beginning November 25, 2022. They are also directed to issue an advisory to all teaching and non-teaching personnel of DepEd who availed of the APDS program, informing them of the BSP's enforcement of its adjudication to revoke the Certificate of Authority of MTSLAI and its attending consequences in relation to the existing loan contracts and the terms and conditions in connection with its payment.

DepEd clarified that pre-existing contractual obligations to pay a sum of money existing between the borrower/DepEd personnel and MTSLAI, despite the supervening events, are separate matters, with DepEd not being a party to the loans or contracts between MTSLAI and its DepEd employee borrowers. Thus, MTSLAI may still continue to enforce its loans or contracts with and collect directly from DepEd employee borrowers/debtors, outside of the APDS Program.

Defining Cover Letter and Example

Marketing Assistant Position Cover Letter

A cover letter is a document that is sent along with your resume when applying for a job. Its purpose is to introduce yourself to the hiring manager, highlight your qualifications and skills, and explain why you are a good fit for the position.

When writing a cover letter, it's important to keep it concise and to the point. The hiring manager may receive many applications, so it's important to make a strong impression quickly. Start by addressing the letter to a specific person, if possible. This shows that you have done your research and are genuinely interested in the company and the role.

Next, in the opening paragraph, explain why you are interested in the position and why you would be a good fit. This is your chance to make a case for yourself and to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job. Be sure to mention specific qualifications or skills that make you a strong candidate for the role.

In the second paragraph, expand on your qualifications by providing specific examples of how you have used your skills in the past. This could include examples from previous jobs or from your education. Be sure to use specific figures and data to demonstrate the impact you have made in your previous roles.

Finally, in the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the position and thank the hiring manager for considering your application. Include your contact information and express your availability for an interview.

In general, a cover letter should be around one page in length and should be tailored to each specific job and company you are applying to.

It is important to remember that a cover letter is not a repetition of your CV or resume, it's an opportunity to expand and present yourself to the employer.

Here is a sample cover letter for a job as a marketing assistant:

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Today's Date]

[Hiring Manager's Name]

[Company Name]

[Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Assistant position at [Company Name]. With a strong background in marketing and a passion for the industry, I am confident that I would make a valuable addition to your team.

As a recent graduate in Marketing, I gained a solid understanding of marketing principles and strategies. I have experience with various marketing channels, including social media, email marketing, and content creation. I also have experience with analytical tools such as Google Analytics and Marketo. I have applied my skills in various internships and on-campus projects and have a track record of success that could bring value to your team.

In my current role as a marketing intern at [Current Company], I have been responsible for creating and implementing marketing campaigns, managing social media accounts, and analyzing data to measure campaign success. I have also assisted in planning and executing events, and creating email marketing campaigns. I am a proactive and organized individual who is able to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and can quickly adapt to new technologies.

I am excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute my skills and experience to your team. I believe that my qualifications align well with the requirements of the Marketing Assistant position and would be a valuable asset to your company. Thank you for considering my application.

Please feel free to contact me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number] if you have any further questions or to schedule an interview.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Thank you for reading through my explanation and example of a cover letter. I hope you found the information helpful in understanding the purpose and importance of a cover letter when applying for a job. I hope the sample provided gives you an idea on how to structure your own cover letter, and how to showcase your qualifications and skills effectively.

If you have any further questions or need additional information, please don't hesitate to reach out. I wish you all the best in your job search and career endeavors.

How to Make a Motivational Speech and Example

Empowering Change: The Art of Delivering a Motivational Speech

A motivational speech is a powerful tool that can inspire and energize an audience to take action towards a specific goal or objective. The key to a successful motivational speech is to connect with the audience on an emotional level, and to deliver a message that is both uplifting and actionable.

One effective way to start a motivational speech is to share a personal story or experience that illustrates the power of determination, perseverance, or positive thinking. This can help to establish a connection with the audience and create a sense of relatability.

Next, it's important to clearly define the goal or objective of the speech, and to provide a clear plan or strategy for achieving it. This can include a call to action or specific steps that the audience can take to move forward.

It is also crucial to use powerful language, imagery and structure of the speech. Avoid using negative words and phrases, and focus on the benefits and opportunities that will come from achieving the goal. Use visual aids, if possible, to help the audience to visualize the outcome and make it more tangible.

In addition, a good motivational speech should be upbeat and optimistic, while still being realistic and honest. Avoid making unrealistic promises or over-hyping the potential outcomes.

Finally, it is important to end the speech on a strong and inspiring note, leaving the audience feeling motivated, empowered, and ready to take action.

In summary, a motivational speech is a powerful tool that can inspire and energize an audience to take action towards a specific goal or objective. By connecting with the audience on an emotional level, providing a clear plan of action and using powerful language, imagery and structure, a motivational speaker can inspire their audience to achieve great things.

Here's a sample of a motivational speech that follows the structure and principles outlined above:

Title: Empowering Change: The Art of Delivering a Motivational Speech

Ladies and gentlemen, it is an honor to be here with you today. I want to share with you a story of my own personal journey and how it relates to the topic of empowering change in our lives.

When I was younger, I was a shy and introverted person. I struggled with self-doubt and lacked the confidence to pursue my dreams. But one day, I made a decision that changed my life forever. I decided to take control of my thoughts and to focus on the positive. I made a commitment to never give up on myself and to always strive for greatness.

Through hard work and determination, I was able to turn my life around. I went from being a shy and introverted person to a confident and successful individual. And I want to tell you that if I can do it, so can you.

The goal of my speech today is to empower you to take control of your thoughts and to inspire you to pursue your dreams. I want to give you a clear plan of action and the tools you need to make meaningful changes in your life.

First, I want to stress the importance of positive thinking. It is vital to surround yourself with positive people, to focus on the good things in your life, and to eliminate negative thoughts and self-doubt. Remember, your thoughts have a powerful impact on your actions, and it is essential to focus on the positive to achieve success.

Next, I want to encourage you to set specific, measurable, and attainable goals for yourself. It is important to have a clear vision of what you want to achieve, and to break that goal down into manageable steps. Write your goals down and make them visible so you can see them every day.

I also encourage you to surround yourself with supportive people and a positive community. When we have people in our lives who believe in us and support us, it makes the journey towards our goals much easier.

Finally, I want to remind you that progress takes time, and it's important to be patient and persistent. Don't give up on yourself, even when things get tough. Remember, success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.

In conclusion, I want to remind you that you have the power within you to make meaningful changes in your life. By taking control of your thoughts, setting specific goals, surrounding yourself with positive people and being persistent, you can achieve anything you want. So, go out there and make it happen! Thank you.

Analysis and Interpretation of the Poem "Like the Molave"

Analysis and Interpretation of the Poem "Like the Molave"

"Like the Molave" by Rafael Zulueta da Costa is a poem that praises the Molave tree as a symbol of strength and resilience. The poem uses imagery and metaphor to encourage the reader to be inspired by the strength of the Molave tree, and to be determined to fight for their rights and to achieve their goals. It encourages people to be strong and steadfast in their pursuit of freedom, much like the Molave tree is. The poem also refers to José Rizal and the significance of his legacy in Philippines' freedom.

The poem calls on the people of the Philippines to rise up and fight for their freedom, using the imagery of the Molave tree as a symbol of strength and resilience. It also challenges readers to not be complacent and to strive to achieve their goal. The poem also asks the readers to not rely on just one person, Rizal, and to be ready to make sacrifices for their country.

Overall, The poem "Like the Molave" by Rafael Zulueta da Costa, is a call to action for the Philippines people to be strong and steadfast in their pursuit of freedom and to be inspired by the strength and resilience of the Molave tree and Rizal's legacy.

Here are the analysis and interpretation of the poem:

Not yet, Rizal, not yet. Sleep not in peace:

There are a thousand waters to be spanned;

there are a thousand mountains to be crossed;

there are a thousand crosses to be borne.

This stanza is referencing José Rizal, a Filipino nationalist and revolutionary who is considered the national hero of the Philippines. The quote is suggesting that Rizal's work is not yet finished and that there is still more to be done in terms of achieving freedom and independence for the Philippines. The reference to "a thousand waters to be spanned; a thousand mountains to be crossed; a thousand crosses to be borne" serves as a metaphor for the difficulties and obstacles that must still be overcome in order to achieve this goal.

Our shoulders are not strong; our sinews are  grown flaccid

with dependence, smug with ease

under another's wing. Rest not in peace;

Not yet, Rizal, not yet.

This stanza is again referencing José Rizal. It suggest that people are not strong enough and too dependent to fight for the freedom and independence of Philippines. The quote is critical of the complacency and ease that has come from being under the control of another country, and it urges the reader to take action and not to rest until the goal of independence has been achieved.

The phrase "Our shoulders are not strong; our sinews are grown flaccid with dependence, smug with ease under another's wing" is used to describe how people have lost their strength and are too comfortable in their current situation. The quote is challenging Rizal's followers to be pro-active and not to rely on Rizal alone for freedom, that the people must be strong, capable and ready to do what is needed to achieve their goal.

The land has need  of young blood-

and, what younger than your own,

Forever spilled in the great name of freedom,

Forever oblate on the altar of  the free?

Not you alone, Rizal.

This stanza continues to reference José Rizal. It suggest that the Philippines needs young people to fight for its freedom, and that they should be willing to sacrifice their lives in the pursuit of this goal. The phrase "The land has need of young blood" suggests that the country needs young people to take up the cause of freedom and that they should be willing to make sacrifices for the cause.

It also hints that not just Rizal, but young people should also be ready to make sacrifices for freedom, as Rizal did. The phrase "Forever spilled in the great name of freedom, Forever oblate on the altar of the free" means that these sacrifices should be made in the name of freedom, and that these sacrifices will be forever remembered and honored.

It's an encouragement for the young generation to be ready to give up their lives for their country, this is a powerful message that freedom is worth the cost of one's own life and that it should be cherished and protected.

O souls  And spirits of the martyred brave, arise!

Arise and scour the land!

Shed once again  your willing blood!

Infuse the vibrant red  into our thin anemic veins;

This stanza is calling on the souls and spirits of those who have died for the cause of freedom to rise up and inspire the living to continue fighting for their cause. The phrase "O souls And spirits of the martyred brave, arise!" is an appeal to those who have died to come back to life and be a guide to their descendants.

The quote also calling on people to be willing to give their own blood, metaphorically speaking, to continue the fight for freedom. The phrase "Shed once again your willing blood!" is asking the people to be ready to make the same sacrifices as those who have died before them.

The use of the words "Infuse the vibrant red into our thin anemic veins" serves as a metaphor for giving life and vitality to the cause of freedom, which is seen as being in a state of weakness or ill health. The quote is urging people to be inspired by the sacrifices of the past and to be willing to make sacrifices themselves in order to achieve the goal of freedom.

Until we pick up your Promethean tools and, strong,

Out of the depthless matrix of your faith

In us, and on the silent cliffs of freedom,

we carve for all time your marmoreal dream!

This stanza is continuing to call on the spirits of the martyred brave, and the ideals and beliefs they stood for, to inspire the living to continue fighting for freedom. The phrase "until we pick up your Promethean tools" is referring to the mythological figure Prometheus, who brought fire to humanity, thus symbolizing innovation and creativity. The quote suggests that the living should follow in the footsteps of the martyred brave by picking up their "Promethean tools" and using their ideals and beliefs to continue the fight for freedom.

The phrase "Out of the depthless matrix of your faith in us" is emphasizing the deep and unshakable faith the martyred brave had in the people, and it's now the people's turn to keep that faith in them.

The quote is also calling on people to use the sacrifices of the martyred brave as inspiration to create a lasting monument to freedom. The phrase "we carve for all time your marmoreal dream" is using the metaphor of carving a statue out of marble, which is a durable and long-lasting material, to suggest that the ideals and beliefs of the martyred brave should be honored and remembered for all time by creating a lasting symbol of freedom.

Overall, this quote is urging people to not only remember the sacrifices of the past but also to honor them by continuing the fight for freedom and creating a lasting symbol of that freedom.

Until our people, seeing, are become

Like the Molave, firm, resilient, staunch,

Rising on the hillside, unafraid,

Strong in its own fiber, yes, like the Molave!

This stanza is talking about a specific type of tree called Molave and comparing it to people, it is calling on people to be strong, resilient and steadfast like Molave tree, which are strong and sturdy tree.

The quote is describing the people as lacking these qualities, the phrase "Until our people, seeing, are become like the Molave" is calling for people to be transformed into being strong and resilient like the Molave.

The phrase "firm, resilient, staunch" is describing the physical qualities of the tree, this imagery is being used to encourage people to be strong and steadfast in their beliefs and actions.

The phrase "rising on the hillside, unafraid" suggest that the people should not be afraid to stand up and fight for their beliefs and ideals, just like the Molave tree stands tall on the hillside.

Lastly, the phrase "Strong in its own fiber, yes, like the Molave!" is emphasizing the point that people should have a strength and determination that comes from within themselves, like the Molave tree, instead of depending on something or someone else.

This quote is using the imagery of the Molave tree to call on people to be strong, resilient, and steadfast in their beliefs and actions, just like the tree, in order to achieve the goal of freedom.

Not yet, Rizal, not yet.

The glory hour will come 

Out of the silent dreaming

from the seven thousand fold silence.

We shall emerge, saying WE ARE FILIPINOS!

and no longer be ashamed

Sleep not in peace

the dream is not yet fully carved

hard the wood but harder the woods

yet the molave will stand

yet the molave monument will rise

and god's walk on brown legs.

This stanza is again referencing José Rizal and continuing the theme of the Philippines achieving freedom and independence. The quote suggests that this moment of glory has not yet come, but it will come when the people are ready to say "WE ARE FILIPINOS" with pride and without shame.

The phrase "The glory hour will come / Out of the silent dreaming / from the seven thousand fold silence" implies that the moment of glory will arrive unexpectedly and will come out of a long period of waiting and planning.

It also includes the metaphor of the dream being carved, the phrase "the dream is not yet fully carved / hard the wood but harder the woods" means that the goal of freedom is difficult to achieve and will take effort, but it will be worth it.

The imagery of the Molave tree is used again, the phrase "yet the molave will stand / yet the molave monument will rise" means that just like the Molave tree stands tall and strong, the Philippines will rise and be strong as a nation.

The last phrase "and god's walk on brown legs" is a reference to the people of the Philippines and their role in the fight for freedom. The quote is indicating that the people themselves are the ones who will bring about freedom and that it is up to them to make it happen.

Overall, the stanza is expressing the idea that the Philippines has not yet achieved freedom and that there is still work to be done, but it will happen when the people rise up and say "WE ARE FILIPINOS" with pride and without shame.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all of our readers for taking the time to read and engage with our analysis and interpretation of the poem 'Like the Molave' by Rafael Zulueta da Costa. Your support and interest in understanding the significance of the poem and its message is greatly appreciated. Thank you for being a part of this journey of understanding and appreciation of literature. We hope that this analysis has been informative and enjoyable for you. We look forward to your continued support and engagement in the future.

Sample Graduation Message

Congratulating a Grad on Their Major Achievement

Congratulations on your graduation! It's a time to celebrate all the hard work, dedication, and effort you've put in to get to this point. You should be proud of yourself for reaching this major milestone. As you embark on the next journey of your life, may you have the courage and confidence to follow your dreams and achieve your goals. 

Graduation is a special time that marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It is a time to look back on all of the memories and experiences that have shaped who you are. It is a time to reflect on the lessons you have learned and the successes you have achieved. It is a time to look ahead and dream of all the possibilities the future holds. 

Take this time to celebrate your accomplishment with family and friends. It is a time to celebrate the hard work and dedication that has brought you to this point. Enjoy the moment and be proud of what you have achieved. 

As you move forward in life, remember that you have the power to make a difference. Reach for your goals, take risks, and never be afraid to try something new. The world is full of possibilities and opportunities, and it's up to you to make the most of them. 

No matter what the future holds, may you always stay true to yourself. Believe in your abilities and always aim high. Congratulations on your graduation, and may you find success and fulfillment in all of your future endeavors!