These Are the Links for LearnCon PH 2025: Guidelines, Registration, and Participation

What does it take to bring together young leaders from across the Philippines for one unforgettable week? That’s the mission of LearnCon PH 2025, a national youth convergence happening in Dumaguete City. It’s more than just a school event—it’s a carefully planned gathering where students, teachers, and officials come together to learn, lead, and collaborate on issues that matter.

If you’re curious about how it all works, these are the links for everything you need to know.

These Are the Links for Who Can Join

Each Schools Division Office (SDO), with approval from their Regional Office, nominates 12 representatives—a mix of learners and officials.

For Learners:

• Must be bona fide secondary school students by School Year 2025–2026

• Should have good moral character

• Must be physically capable of joining activities (with accommodations if needed)

• Active in clubs or organizations aligned with themes like leadership, health, climate action, or inclusion

For Officials:

• Must have good office standing and professional designation

• Should have experience as a division/regional officer, school head, guidance counselor, or teacher

• Must be committed to guiding learners throughout the event

This ensures inclusivity and representation from diverse backgrounds.

These Are the Links for Registration

Before the convergence, there’s a detailed registration process. Chaperones help learners complete forms and submit requirements such as:

• Parental consent and waiver forms

• Medical certificates from SDO medical officers

• School IDs and certifications

• Proof of insurance coverage

All documents are uploaded online through the official registration portals:

• LearnCon CP 2025 Editable Forms: https://tinyurl.com/LCPH25-Req

• Participant Online Registration Form Via Microsoft Sheet: https://tinyurl.com/LCPH25-PaxRegistration

📌 Important: The deadline for submission is October 6, 2025. Regional Offices then confirm and endorse participants to the LearnCon Secretariat.

These Are the Links for Regional and BARMM Participants

The process differs slightly depending on where participants come from:

• Regional Participants: Regional Offices coordinate with SDOs to upload official lists, consent forms, medical certificates, IDs, and insurance proof. They also handle travel details and attendance reports.

• BARMM Participants: The LearnCon Secretariat works directly with the BARMM Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education. No registration fee is collected, and expenses are covered by the Secretariat’s budget.

This ensures that all regions, including BARMM, are represented fairly.

These Are the Links for the Convergence Proper

Once participants arrive in Dumaguete City, the real experience begins.

• Arrival: October 26, 2025, from 1:00–5:00 p.m. at designated billeting schools

• Meals: Provided from lunch on October 26 until breakfast on October 31

• Activities: Workshops, plenary sessions, and regional sharing sessions. Any changes are announced officially during plenary gatherings.

• Uniforms: Official LearnCon PH 2025 shirt for the opening, BLS-SDM shirt for the closing, and regional uniforms for sharing sessions

• Recognition: Awards for the Best School Learning Action Cell Division (BLS-SDM) Implementers, based on quality, theme alignment, and impact

It’s a mix of structured learning, cultural exchange, and recognition of excellence.

Did You Know?

Dumaguete City, the host of LearnCon PH 2025, is nicknamed the “City of Gentle People.” It’s famous for its welcoming community and vibrant university town atmosphere—making it the perfect backdrop for a youth convergence.

A Personal Take

Looking at these guidelines, I can’t help but think of my own school days. The most memorable moments weren’t just in classrooms—they were in events like this, where you met peers from different places and realized you were part of something bigger. LearnCon PH 2025 feels like one of those rare opportunities where students don’t just learn about leadership—they live it.

Why LearnCon PH 2025 Matters

At its heart, LearnCon PH 2025 is about preparing young people for the future. By combining leadership, advocacy, and cultural exchange, it creates a safe and inspiring space for growth.

These are the links for everything you need to know about this convergence—and maybe, just maybe, it’s the kind of event that sparks a lifelong passion for leadership. Would you join something like this if you had the chance?

Teacher Promotion Guidelines: What the New Policy Really Means

What happens if a teacher doesn’t meet all the performance requirements but still dreams of moving up the career ladder? That’s where the teacher promotion guidelines step in. These rules are designed to balance high standards with fairness, giving educators a chance to grow even if their performance record isn’t spotless.

Understanding the Teacher Promotion Guidelines

The updated policy introduces a three-year transition period where teachers can still be considered for promotion, even if they fall short in some areas of their performance evaluation. This is a big deal because it recognizes that teaching is complex, and not every year will be perfect.

Here’s how it works:

• Outstanding Performance – Teachers with an overall Very Satisfactory or higher rating, plus consistently strong marks in all PPST (Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers) indicators, may still qualify for promotion even if they’re reclassified into a different position.

• Very Satisfactory Performance – Educators who score Very Satisfactory overall but have a few Satisfactory ratings in certain indicators can still move up, as long as they meet the qualifications for the role.

• Satisfactory Performance – Even those with mostly Satisfactory ratings may be considered, provided they meet the minimum standards and there’s a need for the position.

• Special Considerations – Teachers who missed requirements due to health issues, maternity or paternity leave, or other valid reasons can still be evaluated fairly.

Why This Policy Matters

This isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about recognizing the realities of teaching. Performance ratings like the IPCRF (Individual Performance Commitment and Review Form) and PPST indicators are important, but they don’t always capture the full story.

• Teaching involves unpredictable challenges, from large class sizes to sudden curriculum changes.

• Life events—like illness or family responsibilities—can affect performance temporarily.

• The policy ensures that teachers aren’t permanently penalized for one difficult year.

Did You Know?

The Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST) were officially adopted in 2017 to align teacher development with global standards. They cover everything from classroom management to professional growth, making them a cornerstone of teacher evaluation in the Philippines.

Common Questions About Teacher Promotions

Q: Can a teacher with a low rating still apply for promotion?

Yes, but they must address deficiencies in the following school year before submitting their application.

Q: How long will the relaxed rules apply?

The transition period lasts three years, ending in February 2028. After that, stricter requirements will be enforced.

Q: Does this mean standards are being lowered?

Not exactly. The policy is more about flexibility and fairness, ensuring that capable teachers aren’t overlooked due to temporary setbacks.

A Personal Take

I think this approach makes sense. Teaching is one of those professions where passion and resilience matter just as much as performance scores. I’ve seen educators bounce back after a tough year and go on to inspire countless students. Policies like this give them the breathing room to prove themselves without being boxed in by one evaluation.

Moving Forward

The teacher promotion guidelines highlight a more compassionate and realistic approach to career growth in education. By balancing high expectations with flexibility, the system ensures that teachers are judged fairly while still upholding professional standards.

What do you think—should more professions adopt this kind of transition policy?

New Guidelines for School Principals: What You Need to Know About Promotions

What does it really take to move up the ladder as a school leader? For many educators, the path to becoming a higher-ranked principal has always meant passing the school head assessment or submitting a Certificate of Rating (COR). But under new guidelines, some principals are now exempt from these requirements—making the process a little less daunting.

Who Is Exempt From the Principal’s Test?

The Department of Education (DepEd) has clarified that not all principals need to pass the Principal’s Test, NQESH, or NASH to qualify for reclassification or promotion. Here are the four key exemptions:

1. Appointed before the implementation of the Principal’s Test, NQESH, or NASH.

2. Appointed after these assessments were introduced but were not required to take them.

3. Appointed during the period when only regional-level DepEd assessments and School-Based Management (SBM) evaluations were needed.

4. Appointed based on leadership experience and proven track record.

In short, if you’ve been serving as a principal under these conditions, you don’t need to worry about retaking or submitting test results.

What Documents Are Required Instead?

Even without the test, principals must still meet the qualification standards for the position they’re aiming for. The required documents include:

• A Personal Data Sheet (CS Form 212, Revised 2017)

• Service Record

• Performance Ratings for the last three rating periods

• Omnibus Certification of authenticity and veracity of documents

Once filed with the Records Division, these documents are stored in the employee’s 201 files and don’t need to be resubmitted.

Did You Know?

• The National Qualifying Examination for School Heads (NQESH) was first introduced in 2006 to standardize the selection of principals.

• The Philippines is one of the few countries in Asia that requires a national-level exam for school leadership positions.

• DepEd Order No. 19, s. 2022 and DepEd Order No. 2, s. 2015 serve as the backbone of these updated rules.

Common Questions About the Guidelines

Q: Does this mean all principals are exempt from the test?

A: No. Only those who meet the listed conditions are exempt. New applicants still need to pass the required assessments.

Q: Can principals still take the test if they want to?

A: Yes, but it’s not necessary if they already qualify under the exemptions.

Q: Do these rules apply nationwide?

A: Yes, the guidelines apply across all regions in the Philippines.

A Personal Take

I find this update refreshing because it recognizes the value of experience and leadership track record. Not every great school leader shines through standardized tests—some prove themselves daily through years of service, mentoring teachers, and improving schools. It feels like a fair balance between honoring past contributions and maintaining professional standards.

Moving Forward

The new guidelines for school principals highlight a shift toward valuing experience alongside formal assessments. For many educators, this could mean a smoother path to promotion and recognition of their long-standing service. Do you think leadership should be measured more by exams or by proven experience? Share your thoughts—I’d love to hear your perspective.

Modified Staffing Standards for Master Teacher: What You Need to Know

Teaching isn’t just about standing in front of a classroom—it’s about building a system that supports both educators and students. That’s where the Modified Staffing Standards for Master Teacher come in. These guidelines shape how schools decide when and how to allocate Master Teacher positions, ensuring that experience and specialization are recognized fairly.

What Are the Modified Staffing Standards for Master Teacher?

At its core, this policy sets the ratio for assigning Master Teacher positions in schools. According to the rules, one Master Teacher slot can be created for every three or five teachers in the same subject area, learning area, or track at the secondary level.

This means schools don’t just randomly assign the role—it’s based on actual teaching needs and the number of educators in a given subject.

Key Points You Should Know

Here’s a breakdown of the most important details:

• Teacher-to-Master Teacher Ratio: For every 3 or 5 teachers in the same subject, one Master Teacher position may be allocated.

• Inclusion of Multi-Subject Teachers: Teachers handling multiple subjects or teaching outside their specialization are still counted in the ratio, as long as their assignments are verified through official school forms.

• Specialization Requirement: To apply for a Master Teacher role, a teacher must have the right academic background in the subject or track.

• Experience Pathway: If a teacher is teaching outside their original field, they need at least five years of cumulative teaching experience in that subject to qualify.

• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): The policy acknowledges not just formal education but also career experience, competence, and contributions to student outcomes.

Why This Matters for Teachers and Schools

The Modified Staffing Standards for Master Teacher aren’t just bureaucratic rules—they directly affect career growth and classroom quality.

• They ensure that teachers with deep subject knowledge or long-term experience are recognized.

• They help balance workloads by making sure Master Teachers are available in proportion to the number of teachers.

• They encourage professional development by rewarding both academic specialization and practical teaching experience.

Did You Know?

In many countries, the concept of a “Master Teacher” is tied to mentorship. These educators often guide younger teachers, lead curriculum development, and even shape school culture. The Philippines’ approach—blending specialization with recognition of prior learning—reflects a global trend of valuing both formal qualifications and lived classroom experience.

Common Questions About Master Teacher Standards

Q: Can a teacher without a degree in a subject still become a Master Teacher in that area?

A: Yes, but they must have at least five years of teaching experience in that subject, verified through official records.

Q: Why is the ratio sometimes 3:1 and other times 5:1?

A: The ratio depends on the subject area and staffing needs. It’s designed to balance fairness with practicality.

Q: What documents are needed to apply?

A: Teachers must provide their Personal Data Sheet (PDS), Work Experience Sheet, and verified class programs showing their teaching assignments.

A Personal Take

I think what stands out here is the balance between formal education and real-world teaching experience. I’ve seen teachers who may not have the “perfect” degree but have decades of classroom wisdom that no textbook can replace. This policy feels like a nod to that reality—it values both the paper credentials and the lived contributions of teachers.

Why It All Comes Together

The Modified Staffing Standards for Master Teacher ensure that schools recognize both specialization and experience when assigning leadership roles. It’s a system designed to reward competence, balance workloads, and ultimately improve student outcomes.

What do you think—should more countries adopt a similar mix of academic and experiential recognition for teachers?

Understanding the Career Progression System for Teachers in the Philippines

What makes a great teacher stay motivated year after year? For many, it’s not just the joy of teaching but also the promise of growth. The Career Progression System for Teachers in the Philippines lays out a clear path for educators to advance in rank, responsibility, and salary—something that resonates with teachers worldwide.

What Is the Career Progression System?

The Career Progression System was introduced under Executive Order No. 174, s. 2022 to give public school teachers a structured way to move up in their careers. Instead of feeling “stuck” in one position, educators now have a roadmap that recognizes their expertise, leadership, and years of service.

Here’s how it works:

• Teacher Levels: From Teacher I to Teacher VII, with salary grades ranging from 11 to 17.

• Master Teacher Levels: From Master Teacher I to IV, with salary grades 18 to 22.

• School Principals: From Principal I to IV, also with salary grades 19 to 22.

This system also applies to teachers in Senior High Schools (SHS), Alternative Learning Systems (ALS), Madrasah Education, and Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) programs.

Why It Matters for Teachers

A career ladder isn’t just about paychecks—it’s about recognition. Teachers who excel in their craft can now see a tangible reward for their dedication.

• Motivation: Clear promotion paths encourage teachers to keep improving.

• Retention: When teachers feel valued, they’re more likely to stay in the profession.

• Equity: Specialized educators, like Special Science Teachers and Special Needs Education Teachers, are also included.

Did You Know?

In many countries, teachers face “career stagnation,” where they remain in the same role for decades. The Philippines’ system is designed to prevent that by offering multiple levels of advancement—something education experts say boosts both teacher morale and student outcomes.

Who’s Not Covered?

Interestingly, not every education role falls under this order. The system does not apply to:

• Guidance Counselors and School Counselors

• Guidance Coordinators and Guidance Services Specialists

• Education Program Specialists II in areas like ALS, SHS, Madrasah, IPEd, SPED, School Health, Nutrition, Sports, Disaster Risk Reduction, and more

These positions follow different career structures, which shows how diverse the education workforce really is.

Common Questions About the Career Progression System

Q: Does this mean teachers automatically get promoted? 

 A: No. Promotion still depends on performance, qualifications, and available slots.

Q: Is this only for public school teachers? A:

Yes, the system is designed for the public education sector. Private schools may have their own career ladders.

Q: How does this compare internationally?

A: Many countries, like Singapore and South Korea, also have tiered systems that reward teachers for both classroom excellence and leadership roles.

A Personal Take

I think what’s inspiring about this system is that it acknowledges teaching as a lifelong profession, not just a job. When I look back at my own teachers, the ones who made the biggest impact were those who kept growing, learning, and leading. A structure like this feels like a way of saying, “We see you, and your growth matters.”

Wrapping It Up

The Career Progression System for Teachers in the Philippines is more than a bureaucratic reform—it’s a recognition of the vital role educators play in shaping the future. By offering clear steps for advancement, it gives teachers the motivation and respect they deserve. What do you think—should more countries adopt a similar system for their educators?

DepEd Bataan Suspends Face-to-Face Classes for Safety Checks

When schools close, it usually means a storm or holiday. But in Bataan, the reason is different: safety. The DepEd Bataan suspends face-to-face classes on October 16–17, 2025, so every school building can be carefully inspected. Students won’t be idle, though—learning continues at home through online and modular lessons.

Why the Sudden Pause in Classes?

The Department of Education (DepEd) issued Memorandum No. 461 s. 2025, directing a province-wide inspection of schools. The goal is to make sure classrooms are safe before students return.

Here’s what the suspension covers:

• All public schools in Bataan, from kindergarten to senior high school.

• Balanga City schools, both public and private, shifting to distance learning.

• Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM) like printed modules and online platforms to keep lessons going.

It’s a short break from the classroom, but one with long-term benefits.

What Inspectors Are Looking For

The inspections aren’t just a formality. Teams will be checking:

1. Structural integrity – Are classrooms strong enough to withstand earthquakes or typhoons?

2. Infrastructure safety – From roofs to electrical wiring, every detail matters.

3. Facility readiness – Ensuring schools are safe, functional, and welcoming.

Did You Know?

The Philippines has over 47,000 public schools, many of which are used as evacuation centers during disasters. That’s why safety checks aren’t just about education—they’re about community resilience.

How Families and Students Adjust

For students, this means two days of distance learning. Some will log in online, while others will work through printed modules. Parents may need to step in more than usual, especially for younger learners.

Quick Q&A

Q: Will this affect the school calendar?

A: No, lessons continue through ADM, so no days are lost.

Q: Why only two days?

A: The inspections are scheduled for October 16–17, but follow-up repairs may extend beyond that.

Q: Is this common?

A: Yes. In the Philippines, class suspensions often happen due to typhoons, earthquakes, or health concerns. What’s unique here is the proactive safety audit.

A Wider Perspective

Education in the Philippines has always had to adapt—whether to natural disasters, pandemics, or infrastructure challenges. This suspension shows how DepEd is trying to stay ahead of risks instead of reacting after the fact. It’s a reminder that learning doesn’t just happen in classrooms; it happens wherever students are safe.

Personal Take

I think this is a smart move. I remember when my own school once closed for a week after a storm—it felt disruptive at first, but knowing the building was safe when we returned gave everyone peace of mind. A short pause is a small price to pay for long-term safety.

Safety First, Learning Always

The DepEd Bataan suspends face-to-face classes not to interrupt education, but to protect it. By prioritizing safety, the province ensures that classrooms remain places of growth, not risk. What’s your take—should more regions adopt regular school safety inspections like this?

Palace vs. VP Sara Duterte: The DepEd ‘Personal Interests’ Clash Explained

Politics in the Philippines is rarely quiet, but the latest exchange between Malacañang and Vice President Sara Duterte has stirred even more noise. The Palace accused her of running the Department of Education (DepEd) for personal interests, sparking a heated back-and-forth that blends governance, education, and political rivalry.

What Sparked the Controversy?

The tension began when Duterte criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s leadership, suggesting his directives were unclear. In response, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro fired back, saying Duterte’s actions as DepEd secretary were guided more by self-interest than by national priorities.

Among the issues raised:

• “Ghost students” allegedly appearing in DepEd records.

• Spoiled or moldy meals distributed in a school feeding program.

• A leadership style that, according to the Palace, often went against the President’s directives.

Castro argued that true leadership requires listening and aligning with broader goals, not pursuing independent strategies for personal gain.

Did You Know?

The Department of Education is the largest government agency in the Philippines, serving more than 27 million students. With such a massive reach, even small lapses in policy or program delivery can ripple across the entire nation.

Confidence and Integrity

The clash didn’t stop at education. Duterte also questioned why President Marcos expressed confidence that he would not be implicated in flood control project anomalies, calling it premature.

The Palace countered that Marcos’ confidence comes from integrity — a pointed contrast to their claim that Duterte’s leadership was self-serving.

A Look at Duterte’s DepEd Legacy

Duterte’s time at DepEd was short but eventful:

1. She described the education system as outdated, sparking debate among lawmakers.

2. Her resignation in 2024 was linked to “personal and work issues” with the President.

3. Despite controversies, she maintained strong political influence, often framing education as part of a larger governance struggle.

Common Questions

Q: Why does this matter to ordinary Filipinos?

A: Education is a daily reality for millions of families. When politics disrupts schools, it affects classrooms, teachers, and students directly.

Q: Could this impact future elections?

A: Political clashes like this often shape alliances and public perception, so it’s likely to play a role in the coming years.

My Take

As someone who cares about education, I find it frustrating when classrooms become battlegrounds for political disputes. Feeding programs, textbooks, and student records may sound like small details, but they reveal whether leaders are truly prioritizing children or just playing politics. It’s a reminder that education is never just about schools — it’s about trust.

What It Means Going Forward

The Palace’s claim that VP Sara Duterte ran DepEd for personal interests has added another layer to the ongoing tension between her and President Marcos. Whether these allegations hold up or not, the controversy highlights how education and politics are deeply intertwined in the Philippines.

Do you think education leaders can ever stay fully apolitical, or is politics always going to be part of the classroom?