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“Pamaskong Handog: Pamilya, Pag-asa, at Pagkakaisa” — A Nationwide Celebration of Joy and Unity

Every December, Filipinos across the country look forward to traditions that bring families, communities, and institutions together. One of the most anticipated among these is Pamaskong Handog, an annual initiative led by the Philippine government to celebrate the spirit of giving.

This year, Pamaskong Handog 2025 promises to be bigger, more meaningful, and more connected than ever. By combining holiday festivities with technology and community engagement, the event is set to uplift the lives of thousands of Filipino learners and families from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

While grounded in local culture, the initiative also showcases universal values — generosity, inclusivity, and community — ideals that resonate with audiences anywhere in the world.

“A nationwide school Christmas celebration under Pamaskong Handog 2025 featuring gift-giving, performances, and community meals.”

What Is Pamaskong Handog 2025?

Pamaskong Handog 2025 is a nationwide Christmas gift-giving program spearheaded by the Office of the President in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), local government units, and several national agencies.

The event follows the theme:

“Pamaskong Handog: Pamilya, Pag-asa, at Pagkakaisa”

(“Family, Hope, and Unity”)

At its core, the initiative aims to deliver joy, support, and opportunities to Filipino learners and their families through synchronized celebrations across the country. Beyond the festivities, the program integrates digital empowerment through the deployment of Starlink satellite devices in selected schools — strengthening connectivity in remote communities.

The Goals of Pamaskong Handog 2025

Pamaskong Handog is designed to create impact on multiple levels. Its objectives include:

1. Spreading Holiday Joy and Inclusivity

Learners and their families participate in school-based programs while select groups experience the Christmas celebration at Malacañang Palace, complete with performances, gift-giving, and a guided tour.

2. Promoting Filipino Culture

Cultural presentations, games, and performances highlight traditions and showcase the creativity of Filipino youth.

3. Strengthening Community Bonds

Through shared meals or “Salo-Salo,” participants celebrate togetherness, unity, and gratitude.

4. Demonstrating Multi-Sector Collaboration

The initiative puts a spotlight on the power of partnerships across government agencies, LGUs, and stakeholders working toward a common mission: uplifting communities during the most meaningful season of the year.

When and Where Will the Event Take Place?

Pamaskong Handog 2025 will be held on:

📅 December 6, 2025 (Saturday)

📍 Malacañang Palace + 100 participating schools nationwide

The nationwide celebration involves:

  • 30 schools in Luzon

  • 40 in the Visayas

  • 30 in Mindanao

Each school will host around 300 participants, consisting of learners, parents, and teachers. In total, the event will gather 30,000 participants nationwide, with 14,000 learners and 16,000 parents and teachers.

What Activities Will Be Conducted?

1. Christmas Program at Malacañang

Select participants will enjoy:

  • Gift-giving activities

  • Performances

  • A Palace tour

  • Special segments with the First Family

2. School-Based Activities Across the Country

All 100 participating schools will conduct:

  • Cultural presentations

  • Christmas-themed performances

  • Interactive games

  • Local gift-giving activities

3. Salo-Salo Meals

DepEd will provide breakfast and lunch for all participants, building camaraderie and community spirit.

4. Turnover of Starlink Devices (Tentative)

In partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), some schools will receive satellite internet equipment to boost their digital readiness.

Program Timeline: A Nationwide Synchronized Celebration

To ensure unity and consistency, schools will follow a pre-set program matrix. Highlights include:

Morning Activities (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM)

  • Registration and breakfast

  • Technical checks

  • Performances

  • Games

Main Live Stream with the President (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

  • President’s message

  • Gift-giving

  • Photo opportunity

  • Tour of booths accompanied by choir performances

Closing Activities (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM)

  • Raffles or additional games

  • Lunch and photo sessions

This synchronized approach ensures that every community — whether in a bustling city or a remote island — shares the same celebratory moment.

Technical Requirements for Participating Schools

To support the live nationwide broadcast, each school must prepare the following:

  • LED display rental

  • Laptop or desktop computer

  • Audio system

  • Stable internet connection

  • Technical personnel

A coordination meeting between DepEd, participating schools, and Malacañang will ensure technical readiness before the event.

Schools are also required to livestream their local celebrations as part of the collective broadcast.

Budget Allocation: How Much Is Provided per School?

Each participating school will receive a budget of ₱200,000. This amount covers:

Item

Budget

Meals (300 participants, breakfast + lunch)

₱75,000

LED rental & tech equipment

₱75,000

Games & prizes

₱50,000

TOTAL

₱200,000

Funds are expected to be released by the 2nd or 3rd week of November 2025.

Schools have flexibility to reallocate funds as long as they prioritize essential items and ensure full documentation of expenses.

How Will the Gift Packages Be Distributed?

Each of the 140 learners per school will receive an official gift set from the Office of the President.

Gift sets will be delivered from the DepEd Central Office Warehouse to Regional Offices, which will then supervise the distribution to each participating school.

If funds allow, schools may also procure additional gifts for parents, teachers, or school staff.

Roles of School Personnel

To ensure smooth execution, schools must assign coordinators for:

  • Logistics

  • Technical/stage management

  • Admin and documentation

  • Hosting

  • Guest relations

  • Zoom and livestream facilitation

A School Program Lead will oversee the overall implementation.

Why Pamaskong Handog 2025 Matters

Beyond the festivities, Pamaskong Handog 2025 emphasizes something deeply meaningful:

Hope. Solidarity. Shared culture. Community empowerment.

It’s a reminder that even amid challenges, collective joy and unity can bring light to the lives of thousands of Filipino children and families. The initiative isn’t just a seasonal celebration — it is an investment in people, culture, and connection.

JDS 2025 Scholarship: A Life-Changing Opportunity for Teachers and Education Leaders

Every year, global scholarship programs help shape the next generation of leaders—and one of the most respected among them is Japan’s Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS). For 2025, the JDS Program has once again opened its doors to qualified teachers, school leaders, and teaching-related personnel under the Department of Education (DepEd). This fully funded opportunity offers a two-year master’s degree in Japan for the 2026–2027 academic year.

Whether you’re an educator looking to elevate your expertise or a school leader aiming to build stronger leadership competencies, the JDS Scholarship provides an exceptional pathway to advanced learning, global exposure, and professional impact.

JDS 2025 Scholarship: A Life-Changing Opportunity for Teachers and Education Leaders

What Is the JDS Scholarship Program?

The Japan Grant Aid for the Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS) is designed to develop future leaders in participating partner countries. It equips promising young professionals with the academic training and interdisciplinary knowledge needed to contribute to national social and economic development.

For the Philippines, the JDS Scholarship plays a vital role in strengthening public institutions, enhancing governance, and preparing strategic thinkers for roles that demand innovation and high-impact decision-making.

The upcoming cycle will commence in August 2026, providing scholars with world-class master's programs across reputable Japanese universities known for excellence in research, public policy, economics, development studies, environment, and disaster management.

Why This Scholarship Matters

In an era where global challenges—from climate resilience to public sector modernization—are evolving rapidly, the JDS Scholarship empowers Filipino scholars to bring back insights, strategies, and skills applicable to real-world governance.

Its EEAT-aligned credibility is rooted in:

  • Expert-led training by top Japanese institutions

  • Evidence-based policy learning

  • Applied research and real-world problem-solving

  • A strong network of international professionals

This makes the program not only valuable individually, but transformative for the institutions scholars eventually lead.

Priority Areas and Field Components

The JDS Framework aligns each academic field with the Philippines’ priority development areas. A candidate’s placement depends on their relevant sector, position, and potential contribution.

The scholarship focuses on two major development priorities:

  1. Strengthening sustainable economic growth

  2. Enhancing human security

These priorities are reflected in the following JDS study fields:

  1. Enhancement of Public Administration

  2. Enhancement of Finance / Monetary Administration and Policy

  3. Promotion of Trade, Industry, and Investment

  4. Promotion of Infrastructure Improvement and Development

  5. Enhancement of Water Resource or Natural Environment Management

  6. Enhancement of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management

These tracks are offered by top-tier Japanese universities known for building strong public-sector leaders.

Who Can Apply: Criteria and Qualifications

To ensure that JDS remains a high-impact program, applicants must meet strict but fair eligibility requirements. Candidates must:

  • Be Filipino citizens, aged 22 to 39 as of April 1, 2026

  • Hold a permanent government position (Salary Grade 18–24)

  • Have at least two years of government service

  • Possess academic credentials relevant to their chosen field

  • Receive formal nomination from their division, regional, or central office

  • Have at least a Very Satisfactory performance rating

  • Have no pending administrative or criminal case

  • Be willing to render four years of service upon return

  • Demonstrate exemplary leadership potential, strong character, and good health

  • Show proficiency in English (TOEFL PBT 550 / IBT 79–80 or IELTS 6.5)

  • Not be a recipient of any prior foreign graduate scholarship

This ensures that chosen scholars are capable, committed, and positioned to drive meaningful change.

How to Apply: Submission Guidelines

Interested applicants must complete the official forms available at:

→ http://jds-scholarship.org/country/philippines/apply.html

Regional Offices are instructed to submit a maximum of two qualified nominees on or before December 5, 2025, through this link:

→ https://forms.office.com/r/tZ24USbM6i

Only nominees with complete documentation will be endorsed for screening.

Application Process Includes:

  • Academic aptitude test

  • Document screening by accepting universities

  • Technical interviews with Japanese professors

  • Final interview with the JDS Operating Committee

Required Documentary Files

Applicants must prepare scanned copies of these documents:

  1. Short Essays – including work responsibilities, motivation, and re-entry plan

  2. Research Plan – one per chosen university

  3. Degree Certificate

  4. Transcript of Records

  5. Reference Letter

  6. Performance Rating (VS or higher)

  7. Official Nomination Letter

  8. Certificate of No Administrative Case

  9. Certificate of No Nomination to Other Scholarships

  10. Certificate of No Outstanding Service Obligation

  11. Service Record

  12. Statement of Actual Duties

  13. Passport or PSA Birth Certificate

  14. Formal ID Photo (4:3 aspect ratio)

  15. IELTS Certificate (optional, valid until May 2025)

All files must follow the required format and must be clear and complete to avoid delays.

Why Educators Should Consider the JDS Scholarship

This scholarship is more than a postgraduate opportunity—it’s an investment in leadership and community impact.

Scholars return with:

  • Broader global perspectives

  • Advanced technical expertise

  • Enhanced communication and diplomacy skills

  • Network connections with international experts

  • Stronger policy and research foundations

For teachers, school heads, and technical personnel, this can significantly elevate their ability to lead, innovate, and influence educational reform.

The JDS 2025 Scholarship represents a powerful opportunity for educators ready to shape the future of the Philippine education sector. With full support from DepEd and Japan’s commitment to human resource development, this program offers unmatched training and international exposure.

If you or someone in your office meets the qualifications, this is the best time to apply—and take a step toward becoming a global-ready leader for national development.

A Clearer Future for Military and Uniformed Personnel: What EO 107 Means for MUP Pay and Benefits

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed Executive Order (EO) 107, a landmark directive that updates the base pay schedule and subsistence allowance of all Military and Uniformed Personnel (MUP) in the Philippines. The reform, announced on December 3, marks one of the most systematic and forward-looking adjustments to MUP compensation in recent years.

For a country that heavily relies on the dedication of its security forces—from soldiers and police officers to coast guard and corrections personnel—this move is significant. EO 107 doesn’t only adjust salaries; it sets a multi-year roadmap that ensures predictability, fairness, and a more resilient compensation structure for those who serve on the front lines of national safety.

A Clearer Future for Military and Uniformed Personnel: What EO 107 Means for MUP Pay and Benefits

Understanding EO 107: What Exactly Is Changing?

Three-Tranche Salary Increase: 2026, 2027, and 2028

One of the centerpieces of EO 107 is the three-step base pay adjustment:

  • First tranche: January 1, 2026

  • Second tranche: January 1, 2027

  • Third tranche: January 1, 2028

This phased implementation allows the government to responsibly fund the increases while ensuring consistent annual improvements to MUP compensation. Each tranche specifies an exact salary adjustment, offering full transparency.

The order covers uniformed personnel under:

  • Department of National Defense (DND)

  • Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)

  • Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)

  • Bureau of Corrections (BuCor)

  • National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA)

In short, everyone from AFP soldiers to PCG rescue teams will benefit from this structured pay raise.

A Major Boost in Subsistence Allowance

Beyond base pay, EO 107 grants a significant increase in subsistence allowance, raising it to ₱350 per day, up from the current ₱150. This adjustment begins January 1, 2026.

A similar allowance increase was rolled out earlier this year under EO 84 for AFP personnel, showing a consistent effort to improve daily living conditions for service members. With rising food prices and shifting economic realities, this boost is both timely and essential.

Why EO 107 Matters: Morale, Retention, and Readiness

Supporting Those Who Uphold National Security

EO 107 clearly states the rationale: improving MUP compensation helps sustain a competent, committed, agile, and healthy workforce. In practical terms, better pay and allowances strengthen:

  • Morale: When personnel feel valued, performance improves.

  • Retention: Competitive compensation helps keep skilled officers in service.

  • Operational readiness: Well-supported personnel are better equipped to respond to national threats, disasters, and emergencies.

For communities—whether in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, or even Filipino families abroad—this translates to a stronger and more reliable security presence.

Budget Sources and Funding Outlook

The implementation is carefully structured to fit within national fiscal planning:

  • For 2026: Funding will come from budget allocations already set in the 2026 national budget plus other allowable sources.

  • For 2027–2028: The required amount will be included in the yearly National Expenditure Program submitted to Congress.

This forward-planning approach ensures that compensation improvements remain sustainable and aligned with the broader economic landscape.

A Deeper Reform: Reviewing the MUP Pension System

Perhaps the most transformative part of EO 107 is not the immediate salary increase, but the order to conduct a comprehensive review of the current MUP pension system.

Creation of the Inter-Agency Technical Working Group (IATWG)

To spearhead this, EO 107 forms an Inter-Agency Technical Working Group (IATWG) composed of representatives from:

  • Department of Budget and Management (DBM)

  • Department of Finance (DOF)

  • Bureau of the Treasury

  • Government Service Insurance System (GSIS)

Their task:
✔️ Conduct a full audit and review of the MUP pension structure
✔️ Explore sustainability challenges
✔️ Recommend legislative reforms
✔️ Draft policy changes for long-term pension security

This is significant because the long-debated MUP pension reform has major implications for future generations of uniformed personnel and the national budget.

Timeline and Accountability Measures

Under the executive order:

  • All MUP agencies must assign authorized representatives to the IATWG within 30 days of EO 107’s effectivity.

  • The DBM is required to issue detailed implementing guidelines within 90 days.

These deadlines help ensure that the reform process remains on schedule and transparent.

What EO 107 Signals for the Future of Public Service in the Philippines

Building a Modern, Responsive Security Sector

EO 107 is more than a salary adjustment—it is an investment in the country's ability to maintain peace, respond to crises, and uphold public welfare. It reinforces the idea that those who protect the nation should also receive sustained, structured support.

For millions of Filipinos, including families abroad who closely follow domestic developments, this reform is a reassuring sign that the government is both aware of and responsive to the needs of its uniformed workforce.

A Move Toward Long-Term Professionalization

Beyond the immediate benefits, EO 107 contributes to the long-term professionalization of the MUP sector. A clear pay schedule, improved allowances, and a structured pension review framework all elevate the landscape of public service.

In a world where security demands are rapidly changing—from disaster resilience to maritime protection—this level of planning positions the Philippines for a stronger, more adaptive future.

A Strong Step Toward Sustainable Support for MUP

EO 107 marks a thoughtful and strategic commitment to improving the welfare, readiness, and long-term security of Military and Uniformed Personnel. With its structured salary increases, significant allowance adjustment, and comprehensive pension system review, the order lays down a multi-year vision that strengthens the backbone of national safety.

For Filipinos everywhere, this reform moves the country closer to a more secure and well-supported society—one where those who serve are given the recognition and resources they deserve.

🔵 Complete Guide to Tagging SHSEC in the DepEd LIS (Senior High School Exit Choice)

The Department of Education (DepEd) continues to strengthen the implementation of Senior High School (SHS) by ensuring that every learner’s data is accurate, updated, and aligned with their post-graduation plans. One of the key tools used in this process is the Learner Information System (LIS)—DepEd’s official digital platform for managing learner records.

Among its important features is the Tagging of SHSEC, which stands for Senior High School Exit Choice. This process identifies and records each Grade 12 learner’s preferred path after completing SHS. With the growing emphasis on career readiness and meaningful transitions, SHSEC tagging plays a crucial role in guiding schools, teachers, and policy-makers.

This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire SHSEC tagging process in the LIS, explains its significance, and provides best practices for accurate data entry.

🔵 Complete Guide to Tagging SHSEC in the DepEd LIS (Senior High School Exit Choice)

📌 What Is SHSEC?

SHSEC (Senior High School Exit Choice) refers to the learner’s selected direction after graduating from Grade 12.
DepEd identifies four official SHS exit choices:

  • PHE – Pursuing Higher Education

  • PAT – Pursuing Advanced Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL)

  • WOR – Work or Employment

  • SAB – Start a Business

These exit choices reflect the intended pathways learners plan to take, allowing DepEd and schools to understand trends, improve program offerings, and provide better guidance.

📌 Why SHSEC Tagging Matters

Tagging SHSEC is more than a compliance task—it is a vital part of ensuring that schools support learners’ post-SHS goals.

✔ Supports accurate DepEd reporting

National data on SHS exit choices helps DepEd strengthen policy direction and assess the effectiveness of the SHS curriculum.

✔ Helps schools plan programs and interventions

Knowing the distribution of learner choices allows schools to improve guidance programs, TVL offerings, and career pathways.

✔ Enables tailored learner support

Tagging helps teachers and advisers understand what learners aim for, allowing them to provide targeted mentoring and assistance.

✔ Ensures data integrity in the LIS

Up-to-date learner records are essential for efficient school operations, document requests, and future DepEd-related processes.

📌 Before You Start: Important Reminder

The SHSEC tagging facility is available only for Grade 12 learners enrolled in the 2nd semester.
To access and update SHSEC, schools must use their official School User Account in the LIS.

🖥️ Step-by-Step Guide: How to Tag SHSEC in the DepEd LIS

🔹 Step 1: Log In to the LIS

Go to http://lis.deped.gov.ph/
Enter your School User login credentials.
This ensures secure and authorized access to learner profiles.

🔹 Step 2: Access the Learner Information System

Once logged in, click:

DepEd Apps → Learner Information System

This will bring you to the main LIS dashboard.

🔹 Step 3: Open the SHS Tagging Facility

On the top menu, select:

SHS Tagging Facility → SHSEC

This loads the module dedicated to Senior High School Exit Choices.

🔹 Step 4: Select “Not tagged SHSEC”

From the dropdown menu, choose:

Not tagged SHSEC

This filters the list so you only see learners who still need their exit choice encoded.

🔹 Step 5: Click the Pencil Icon

On the right side of the learner’s row, click the pencil icon under “Option.”
This opens the SHSEC tagging form.

🔹 Step 6: Choose the Correct SHS Exit Choice

Select the learner’s SHSEC from the available choices:

  • Pursuing Higher Education

  • Pursuing Advanced TVL

  • Work or Employment

  • Start a Business

After selecting the appropriate exit choice, click Submit.

A green confirmation message will appear once the update is successful.

🔹 Step 7: View Updated SHSEC Records

To see all tagged learners, change the filter from:

Not tagged SHSEC → SHSEC

The updated Masterlist will show all learners whose exit choices have been recorded.

📌 Best Practices for Accurate SHSEC Tagging

✔ Conduct short career guidance conversations

Before tagging, verify learners’ intended SHS exit choice through homeroom advisories or guidance sessions.

✔ Coordinate with SHS advisers and TVL teachers

Teachers often have updates on learners’ plans—teamwork ensures accurate tagging.

✔ Update early

Avoid last-minute tagging to prevent data errors and align with DepEd deadlines.

✔ Train the LIS coordinator

Ensure that the assigned personnel is familiar with LIS navigation and DepEd tagging guidelines.

✔ Keep learners informed

Explain why SHSEC tagging is important so learners take their choices seriously.

Tagging SHSEC in the DepEd LIS is essential for building a clear picture of where Senior High School learners intend to go after graduation. Whether they choose higher education, advanced TVL, employment, or entrepreneurship, recording these choices accurately helps schools and DepEd design programs that truly support learners.

With this step-by-step guide, school personnel can confidently and correctly complete the SHSEC tagging process—ensuring that every Grade 12 learner’s Senior High School Exit Choice is properly documented.

Honoring a Legacy: DepEd Leads the 150th Birth Anniversary of General Emilio Jacinto

 The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially announced the nationwide commemoration of the 150th Birth Anniversary of General Emilio Jacinto on December 15, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. Through DepEd Memorandum No. 104, s. 2025, schools and communities are called to honor one of the most influential minds of the Philippine Revolution.

While the celebration is rooted in Philippine history, the values upheld by Jacinto—freedom, integrity, bravery, and moral leadership—are universal. These principles resonate strongly with global audiences who advocate civic responsibility and nation-building.

“General Emilio Jacinto illustrated beside the Kartilya ng Katipunan with patriotic and educational elements, commemorating his 150th birth anniversary.”

Who Is General Emilio Jacinto? Understanding “The Brains of the Katipunan”

General Emilio Jacinto remains a towering figure in Filipino history. At a young age, he became known as the “Brains of the Katipunan”—the revolutionary movement that sought independence from colonial rule.

His writings, especially the Kartilya ng Katipunan, continue to serve as a moral compass for Filipinos worldwide. The Kartilya’s themes of justice, self-discipline, equality, and compassion mirror values deeply appreciated by diverse communities, including the Filipino diaspora in the U.S.

Objectives of the 150th Birth Anniversary Commemoration

DepEd’s memorandum outlines four major goals for this historic milestone:

1. Honor Jacinto’s life and contributions

Schools will hold ceremonies and tributes that celebrate his courage and visionary leadership.

2. Instill patriotism and integrity among learners

Students will revisit the ideals found in the Kartilya ng Katipunan—principles that remain crucial in shaping responsible citizens.

3. Encourage critical appreciation of Jacinto’s works

Teachers are encouraged to help learners connect the Kartilya to modern citizenship, ethics, and civic participation.

4. Promote meaningful school and community-based activities

These activities highlight Filipino heroes as inspirational role models for today’s youth.

This balanced approach ensures history is not only studied—but lived, reflected on, and applied.

School-Based Activities Encouraged by DepEd

DepEd invites both public and private schools to participate through any of the following:

✔ Flag-Raising Ceremonies and Short Tributes

These serve as respectful openings for the commemorative day, emphasizing unity and national pride.

✔ Classroom Integration

Jacinto’s life may be discussed in subjects like Araling Panlipunan, Filipino, and even English as part of character-building lessons.

✔ Writing and Performance Contests

Activities such as:

  • essay writing

  • poetry composition

  • declamation or speech presentations

These encourage students to express their understanding of Jacinto’s ideals creatively.

✔ Creative Community-Based Initiatives

Examples include:

  • school exhibits

  • mini historical fairs

  • collaborative art murals

  • student-led discussions

These efforts help local communities and younger generations appreciate the depth of Jacinto’s sacrifice.

All activities must follow DepEd Order No. 9, s. 2005 to ensure they do not disrupt regular classes.

Strengthening Partnerships for the Occasion

DepEd emphasizes collaboration with:

  • the National Historical Commission of the Philippines,

  • local government units, and

  • other relevant agencies

This multi-sector approach ensures historically accurate, well-organized, and culturally meaningful events.

Teachers attending weekend or holiday activities will be granted service credits in accordance with DO 013, s. 2024, which encourages active educator involvement without compromising welfare.

Funding and Support for Schools

Expenses for the commemoration may be charged to:

  • local school funds

  • Regional Offices’ and SDOs’ MOOE

  • other legitimate funding sources

All expenditures must follow standard accounting and auditing regulations—an important safeguard ensuring transparency and responsible spending.

Why This Commemoration Matters Today

Emilio Jacinto’s legacy remains relevant in the modern world. In an era where young people face digital distractions, societal pressures, and global challenges, remembering heroes like Jacinto fosters:

  • moral grounding

  • responsible citizenship

  • critical thinking

  • love of country

  • respect for human dignity

His writings remind the youth that genuine freedom is inseparable from compassion, discipline, and community responsibility—values that align with global civic education standards.

Keeping Jacinto’s Ideals Alive

The 150th birth anniversary of General Emilio Jacinto is not merely a date on the calendar—it is a powerful reminder to uphold the principles that define strong, ethical, and united communities.

Through DepEd’s initiative, the celebration becomes a meaningful avenue for schools, families, and communities to reconnect with the spirit of patriotism and civic consciousness. Whether in the Philippines or among Filipino communities abroad, Jacinto’s legacy continues to inspire generations toward justice, integrity, and service.

ARAL Frequently Asked Questions on Check-In and MOSY Assessments

Ensuring strong literacy and numeracy foundations remains one of the most important commitments in any modern education system. For teachers, school heads, and coordinators, clear and timely guidelines help make assessment cycles smoother and more efficient. This comprehensive FAQ-style guide brings together essential information on the Middle-of-the-School-Year (MOSY) assessments and ARAL Check-In Assessments, based on consolidated field queries and updated DepEd instructions.

Written with clarity and global educational best practices in mind, this guide helps schools ensure accurate reporting, better planning, and consistent delivery of learner intervention programs.

ARAL Frequently Asked Questions on Check-In and MOSY Assessments

📅 MOSY Testing Window: Key Dates for SY 2025–2026

Understanding the testing window is crucial for seamless schedule planning and compliance.

Grade 1 MOSY Assessment Schedule

  • October 20 to December 15, 2025

Grade 1 learners take the Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment (CRLA) to determine their ARAL Program placement.

Grades 2–10 MOSY Assessment Schedule

  • November 17 to December 15, 2025

Only ARAL learners from Grades 2 to 10 will be assessed during MOSY.

🧍‍♀️🧍‍♂️ Who Will Be Assessed?

To maintain accurate data collection, the following guidelines apply:

  • All Grade 1 learners must undergo the CRLA MOSY assessment.

  • Grades 2–10 Assessments apply to ARAL-enrolled learners only.
    This ensures data reflects the progress of learners receiving actual intervention.

🛠 Assessment Tools Used for MOSY 2025–2026

Different stages require specific materials to ensure accurate evaluation.

Key Stage 1 (Grades 1–3) – CRLA Materials

Access CRLA tools here:
🔗 https://bit.ly/CRLA_AdministrationMaterials

These tools establish foundational reading levels and may also be used for learners performing two or more levels below expectations.

Key Stages 2–3 (Grades 4–10) – Phil-IRI Tools

Access Phil-IRI pre-test tools here:
🔗 https://tinyurl.com/PhilIRIToolsG4to10

Both the following components must be administered:

  • Group Screening Test (GST)

  • Individual Reading Assessment (IRA)

👉 Only English Phil-IRI results are required for submission.

📤 Submitting MOSY Assessment Results

Schools will submit all MOSY results through the official DepEd portal:

🔗 https://bld.deped.gov.ph/submission

How to Submit

  1. Encode scores in the School Summary File (Version 3).

  2. For Grade 1, encode scores first in the Grade 1 scoresheet.

  3. Copy and paste values only into the School Summary file.

  4. Upload the file to the portal.

  5. Once Grades 2 and 3 assessments are done, update and re-upload the complete file.

Submission Deadline

⏳ December 16, 2025

Meeting this deadline ensures inclusion in national education dashboards.

⚠️ Upload Troubleshooting: Common Fixes

Error: “Please check your school summary version.”

  • Use CRLAscoresheetsv3 only.

  • Download the updated template from the Literacy & Numeracy Assessment Portal.

  • Two versions are available:

    • Tagalog Regions (NCR, III, IV-A, IV-B)

    • Other Regions (CAR, NIR, I–XII, CARAGA, BARMM)

Mismatch Between Summary File and Automated Results

  • Use Paste Values, not keyboard shortcuts.

  • Ensure accurate transfer of data from the class scoresheet to the summary.

📑 How to Submit Phil-IRI Results When Only English Is Required

Schools must submit English results only for ARAL learners.

Steps:

  • Encode total ARAL enrollment per grade level.

  • For the Filipino component:

    • If not administered, enter 0 in all fields.

  • For English:

    • Encode all data according to Phil-IRI categories (Independent, Instructional, Frustration, Level Down).

This ensures consistent and standardized reporting across schools.

📊 Viewing Your Results Through the National Dashboard

Assessment results can be accessed at:

🔗 https://bld.deped.gov.ph/nationaldashboard

The dashboard features:

  • CRLA results

  • Phil-IRI results

  • RMA KS1, KS2, KS3 data

➡ If a school or division is missing from the dashboard, ensure all files were completed and uploaded correctly.

📝 ARAL Check-In Assessments: What You Need to Know

Check-in assessments are designed to monitor learner growth throughout intervention sessions.

Check-In Assessment Schedule

  • KS1 (Grades 1–3): Every 8 sessions

  • KS2–3 (Reading Basic & Reading Plus): Every 16 sessions

Check-In Assessment Tools

Do Schools Submit Check-In Results?

No.
Check-in results are not submitted but must be entered in the Individualized Reading Intervention Plan (IRIP).

Access the IRIP templates here:
🔗 https://tinyurl.com/ARAL-ReadingResources

See DM No. 64, s. 2025, items 29–40 for details.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Understanding MOSY procedures and check-in assessments is essential for delivering meaningful literacy and numeracy interventions. With the right tools, clear timelines, and accurate data submission, educators can help ensure every learner receives the support they deserve. This guide equips schools with the clarity they need to navigate assessment cycles smoothly, helping improve learning outcomes nationwide.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT ARAL FAQS ON CHECK-IN AND MOSY ASSESSMENTS

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