Breaking the Cycle of Poverty: How the Philippines Supports 4Ps Beneficiaries in Education and Employment

The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) has long been recognized as the cornerstone of social welfare in the Philippines. This groundbreaking initiative by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provides financial support to low-income families while promoting education, health, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Now, with the Interim Guidelines for the Management and Hiring of 4Ps Beneficiaries, the program is taking a bold step forward, focusing on creating career pathways for Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) passers among 4Ps recipients.

This initiative represents a major leap in tackling the intergenerational cycle of poverty by bridging the gap between education and employment for Filipino families. For readers in the United States, this program offers a unique perspective on how government-led social programs can integrate workforce development and social equity.

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The Shared Vision of DepEd and DSWD

The Department of Education (DepEd) and the DSWD share a long-term vision: enabling 4Ps beneficiaries not just to complete higher education but to practice their chosen professions and contribute meaningfully to national development. Recognizing that education is a powerful tool to break poverty, both agencies aim to provide sustainable opportunities for individuals within program beneficiary families.

However, without a legal framework or specific guidelines, many qualified 4Ps LET passers faced barriers in entering the education workforce. To address this, the Office of the Undersecretary for Human Resource and Organizational Development (OUHROD) released a memorandum establishing interim measures. These guidelines ensure a smoother hiring process while strengthening collaboration between DepEd and DSWD.

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Interim Guidelines for 4Ps Beneficiary Endorsements

One of the key changes involves how DSWD endorses 4Ps beneficiaries to DepEd:

• The DSWD can directly endorse qualified 4Ps beneficiaries who have passed the LET to DepEd Regional Offices (ROs) without requiring another endorsement from DepEd Central Office.

• DepEd ROs then forward these endorsements to Schools Division Offices (SDOs) for evaluation and action.

• Any endorsed lists sent to the Bureau of Human Resource and Organizational Development (BHROD) are formally returned to DepEd field offices through official channels for proper follow-up.

This streamlined endorsement process reduces bureaucracy and ensures faster consideration of 4Ps beneficiaries in the hiring process, ultimately supporting the program’s core mission: providing opportunities for upward mobility.

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Prioritizing Employment Opportunities for 4Ps Beneficiaries

The interim guidelines also focus on the hiring process for 4Ps beneficiaries within DepEd:

• DepEd SDOs are required to follow the existing hiring policies outlined in DepEd Orders DO No. 19, s. 2022, DO No. 007, s. 2023, and DO No. 021, s. 2024.

• All 4Ps beneficiaries must present official certifications from DSWD to validate their program participation.

• The hiring process emphasizes equity, ensuring that while 4Ps beneficiaries are prioritized, other applicants are still considered fairly to maintain balanced outcomes.

By integrating these guidelines, the program creates a structured path for LET passers to transition from education to professional careers. This is particularly significant for families in socioeconomically challenged areas, where opportunities for stable employment have traditionally been limited.

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Ensuring Documentation and Eligibility

Proper documentation is a cornerstone of this initiative. The DSWD is tasked with ensuring that all 4Ps beneficiaries are equipped with the necessary supporting documents to establish eligibility. This ensures that only genuinely qualified candidates are considered, maintaining the integrity of the program.

Furthermore, DepEd SDOs are instructed to implement transparent assessment procedures while respecting the prioritization of 4Ps beneficiaries. This balanced approach ensures that merit, equity, and program objectives align, benefiting both the beneficiaries and the education system.

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The Bigger Picture: Education as a Catalyst for Social Change

Programs like the 4Ps initiative illustrate how education and employment can be leveraged to break cycles of poverty. By supporting LET passers, the Philippines not only addresses immediate employment needs but also invests in the long-term development of professional educators.

For U.S.-based readers, the 4Ps program offers an inspiring model of social welfare with measurable outcomes, emphasizing how targeted education support combined with structured employment pathways can uplift communities. It highlights the importance of government coordination in social mobility initiatives, a concept that resonates globally.

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The Impact on Filipino Families and Communities

The interim guidelines reinforce the empowerment of individual family members, particularly women and young adults, who are often the primary beneficiaries of 4Ps. By enabling LET passers to secure employment within DepEd, the program:

• Provides stable income opportunities, reducing reliance on financial aid alone.

• Encourages higher education completion, as program beneficiaries can see tangible career pathways.

• Strengthens community development, as more qualified teachers improve local education standards.

This approach not only addresses economic poverty but also nurtures human capital, ensuring sustainable development for future generations.

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Looking Ahead: Continuity and Collaboration

While these guidelines are interim measures, they reflect a strong commitment by both DepEd and DSWD to long-term solutions. Continuous collaboration between the agencies ensures that program beneficiaries have access to both education and employment opportunities without unnecessary delays.

The focus on structured hiring, proper documentation, and equitable prioritization demonstrates how policy innovations can create meaningful change, offering a replicable model for other countries aiming to link social welfare programs to professional development.

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A Step Toward Equitable Growth

The Interim Guidelines for the Management and Hiring of 4Ps Beneficiaries mark a significant milestone in social welfare and education policy in the Philippines. By streamlining endorsement and hiring processes, emphasizing equity, and supporting the professional growth of LET passers, these guidelines empower families and create sustainable pathways out of poverty.

For international observers, particularly in the U.S., the program serves as a case study in how targeted social programs can effectively combine education and employment strategies to break long-standing cycles of poverty and build resilient communities.

Emergency Safety Protocols in Philippine Schools Amid Recent Bomb Threats

In today’s unpredictable world, school and workplace safety has never been more crucial. On October 16, 2025, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued an important advisory for schools and local government offices in the Philippines due to recent bomb threat reports. While such situations are rare, they require immediate action to protect learners, personnel, and entire communities.

For parents, educators, and professionals observing these developments from abroad, understanding the Philippine emergency safety protocols highlights the country’s commitment to keeping students and employees secure during potential threats. This article provides a detailed breakdown of DepEd’s advisory, including precautionary measures, evacuation procedures, and overall safety protocols.

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Understanding the Advisory: What Triggered Precautionary Suspensions?

The advisory was prompted by credible bomb threats received by multiple local government offices and schools across the country. Bomb threats, whether real or hoax, are taken extremely seriously in the Philippines, as they pose significant risks to public safety.

DepEd’s reminder to field offices and schools is grounded in established Disaster and Emergency Guidelines, particularly:

• DepEd Order No. 22, s. 2024 – Covers cancellation or suspension of classes and work during disasters or emergencies.

• DepEd Order No. 26, s. 2006 – Focuses on calamity and disaster preparedness within school communities.

These guidelines ensure a structured and consistent response, minimizing risk and panic during potential threats.

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Key Emergency Safety Protocols in Schools

1. Prompt Evacuation and Safe Assembly

School heads are required to initiate evacuation procedures immediately upon receiving a credible bomb threat. This includes:

• Guiding learners and staff to pre-designated safe zones far from identified threat areas.

• Following instructions from school authorities or local officials before resuming normal activities.

• Implementing Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM) such as online lessons or take-home modules if class suspension is confirmed.

This proactive evacuation strategy mirrors safety practices common in the US and other countries, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and organized response.

2. Activating the School Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Team

The DRRM Team is essential for effective emergency management. Responsibilities include:

• Coordinating evacuation drills and maintaining order during emergencies.

• Communicating promptly with local authorities and school management.

• Ensuring that emergency communication channels are functional and accessible to everyone on campus.

Structured teams like these reduce confusion and ensure calm, efficient action during critical incidents.

3. Coordination with Law Enforcement

Philippine schools must coordinate with the Philippine National Police – Explosives Ordnance Disposal (PNP-EOD) or nearby police units. Key actions include:

• Verifying the credibility of threats.

• Clearing the area and investigating potential hazards.

• Providing authoritative instructions on when it is safe to resume classes or work.

Such coordination emphasizes the importance of professional verification and clearance before resuming operations—a global standard in school safety management.

4. Resuming Classes and Work Safely

Schools and offices can only resume activities once competent authorities confirm the area is secure. Until then:

• Regular updates should be communicated to learners, staff, and parents.

• Schools are advised to maintain heightened security awareness and prevent the spread of rumors that could cause panic.

This cautious approach prioritizes human safety over convenience, reinforcing the value of structured emergency protocols.

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Preventing Panic: The Role of Communication

Clear, reliable communication is critical during security incidents. DepEd emphasizes:

• Avoiding the spread of unverified information on social media or messaging apps.

• Maintaining reliable communication lines with local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils and law enforcement agencies.

• Keeping school communities informed while preventing unnecessary fear or disruption.

For international readers, this underscores the universal challenge of balancing timely updates with responsible communication in emergency scenarios.

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How Parents and Guardians Can Stay Informed

Parents and guardians, whether in the Philippines or abroad, should:

• Monitor official DepEd announcements via their website or social media channels.

• Encourage children to follow instructions from teachers and school authorities.

• Keep emergency contact information up to date for rapid coordination during crises.

Being prepared and informed ensures that safety protocols are effectively followed, reducing stress and uncertainty for families.

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Safety as a Top Priority

The precautionary suspension of classes and work in response to bomb threats underscores the Philippine government’s proactive approach to emergency safety. By following DepEd guidelines, schools protect students and personnel while maintaining structured, efficient communication and response protocols.

Observing these measures provides global insight into how countries implement emergency safety protocols in school settings, highlighting the importance of preparedness, coordination, and calm decision-making during critical incidents.

United for a VAW-Free Philippines: The 2025 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women

Violence against women (VAW) is a global crisis, touching every corner of society—from homes to schools, workplaces, and public spaces. The Philippines, a pioneer in ASEAN for gender equality, continues to take bold steps to address this issue through nationwide advocacy. The 2025 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd), shines a spotlight on the urgent need to eliminate gender-based violence, empower survivors, and foster safer, inclusive communities.

This campaign, running from November 25 to December 12, 2025, under the theme “United for a VAW-Free Philippines,” unites educators, students, communities, and policymakers in a collaborative effort to confront this pressing issue.

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Understanding Violence Against Women in the Philippines

Violence against women remains one of the most widespread human rights violations, with 4.9 million Filipinas aged 15–49 experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional violence from intimate partners, according to the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey.

Schools, often viewed as safe spaces, are not immune. The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2019 reported that 65% of Filipino students have faced bullying, including significant gender-based differences: 43% of girls and 53% of boys have been bullied in school settings.

These statistics highlight the urgent need for gender-responsive education, safe learning environments, and community-wide advocacy to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5, which focuses on gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.

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Historical Commitment: Philippines Leading ASEAN in Gender Equality

The fight against VAW is backed by decades of commitment. The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women in 1979. The Philippines became the first ASEAN country to sign and ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in 1981.

This history reflects the Philippines’ steadfast pledge to advance gender equality and human rights. The 2025 18-Day Campaign builds on this legacy, combining government, private institutions, and civil society efforts in one unified national action plan.

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DepEd’s Role in the 2025 18-Day Campaign

As the lead agency overseeing basic education, DepEd plays a pivotal role in raising awareness about VAW. Guided by Presidential Proclamation No. 1172 (s. 2006), RA No. 10398, and DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2017, schools across the Philippines will engage in diverse activities aimed at education, advocacy, and empowerment.

The campaign adopts a whole-of-nation approach, mobilizing:

• Youth as changemakers

• Men as proactive allies

• Bystanders as empowered responders

• Local leaders as catalysts for policy-driven transformation

The goal is clear: fully eliminate gender-based violence, empower survivors, and promote justice.

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Key Activities and Initiatives for the Campaign

Inclusion in Flag-Raising Ceremonies

Schools can integrate VAW-related presentations, videos, and prayers into daily flag-raising ceremonies. Examples include the All-Women Cast Lupang Hinirang video and the Prayer to End Violence Against Women.

Display of Campaign Banner

Participating offices and schools can print and display the official campaign banner, incorporating their logos for a personalized yet unified advocacy.

Online Participation and Hashtags

Digital engagement is central. Stakeholders can:

• Share official logos, banners, and videos online

• Post VAW-related news and articles using #VAWfreePH

• Use the 18-Day Campaign Facebook Profile Frame

This fosters nationwide awareness while encouraging U.S.-based audiences to engage in global solidarity campaigns.

#OrangeYourIcon Movement

Iconic buildings and landmarks light up in orange, symbolizing solidarity and awareness. This visually powerful campaign inspires public dialogue and makes advocacy visible.

The Orange Exhibit

The Orange Exhibit chronicles achievements in combating VAW. Schools and offices can curate their own exhibits, showcasing progress and initiatives within their communities.

Public Showings and IEC Materials

VAW-related videos, brochures, and educational materials are distributed and publicly displayed, ensuring wide outreach. Translation into major local languages ensures inclusivity and access for all community members.

Unity Walk for Ending VAW

Community-wide walks bring together learners, educators, parents, and local leaders to demonstrate solidarity and collective commitment to ending VAW.

Promoting Positive Masculinity

Campaigns also emphasize positive masculinity, encouraging men to play proactive roles in advocating for gender equality.

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Central Office Initiatives

DepEd’s Central Office spearheads several high-impact activities:

• Online Kick-Off Activity: Interactive sessions via a Feminist Cafe, partnering with feminist organizations and advocates

• 18 Araw, 18 Kaalaman Laban sa VAW: Daily insights on VAW delivered via email or newsletter

• Free Legal Consultation: Ensuring access to justice for VAW-related cases

• Shelf Care Nook: A dedicated reading space for VAW materials in DepEd offices

• DepEd MOVE Campaign: Encouraging male personnel to pledge against violence

• Unity Walk for End VAW: Culminating event to demonstrate collective commitment

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Why the 18-Day Campaign Matters

This annual campaign is more than just a series of events—it’s a movement for change. By engaging communities, schools, and digital platforms, the campaign:

• Empowers survivors and supports victims

• Promotes justice and accountability

• Cultivates safe, inclusive learning and workplace environments

• Strengthens advocacy through creative and visual campaigns

It demonstrates that ending violence against women is a shared responsibility, from educators to policymakers to everyday citizens.

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How You Can Support #VAWfreePH

Even from abroad, you can support this campaign:

• Share VAW-related articles and videos online

• Use hashtags like #VAWfreePH to amplify awareness

• Engage in conversations about gender equality and safety in learning environments

This global solidarity strengthens advocacy and helps raise awareness far beyond the Philippines’ borders.

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The 2025 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women is a critical national initiative that empowers communities, educates youth, and mobilizes change agents at every level. From flag-raising ceremonies to social media campaigns, every action contributes to a VAW-free Philippines.

By supporting the campaign, advocating for survivors, and promoting gender equality, we move closer to a world where women and girls can live free from violence, fear, and discrimination.

These Are the Links For the 3rd Meeting with Field Implementers of the Strengthened Senior High School Program

Education is a global priority, and the Philippines continues to strengthen its Senior High School (SHS) Program to prepare students for higher education, career readiness, and life beyond school. On December 10-11, 2025, the SHS Technical Working Group (TWG) will hold the 3rd Meeting with Field Implementers of the Strengthened SHS Program via Zoom, bringing together education professionals from across the country. This meeting highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring that SHS students receive high-quality learning experiences.

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Overview of the Meeting

The upcoming meeting is designed to align field implementers with updated policies, monitoring strategies, and financial protocols. Field implementers—those who oversee the SHS Program in various regions—play a crucial role in ensuring that programs on the ground meet national standards.

The agenda includes three key areas:

1. Overview of Monitoring and Evaluation Guidelines – Ensuring SHS programs are properly assessed and meet quality standards.

2. Orientation on Downloaded Funds – Providing guidance on fund management for efficient program implementation.

3. Other Matters – Addressing questions, concerns, and emerging educational priorities.

Field implementers are encouraged to participate actively. For inquiries, they can contact strengthenedshs@deped.gov.ph.

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These Are the Links for the Meeting

To accommodate participants nationwide, the meeting is divided into sessions based on regions. Each session has its own Zoom link, meeting ID, and passcode.

Time	Dec 10, 2025	Dec 11, 2025
8:00–10:00	SSHS Focals from Regions 1, 2, and 5 Link	SSHS Focals from Regions 6, 7, and 8 Link
10:00–12:00	SSHS Focals from CALABARZON and MIMAROPA Link	SSHS Focals from Regions 11, 12, and Caraga Link
12:00–13:00	Lunch	Lunch
13:00–15:00	SSHS Focals from Regions 9 and 10 Link	SSHS Focals from NCR and CAR Link
15:00–17:00	SSHS Focals from NIR (140 pax) Link	SSHS Focals from Region 3 Link

Each session will provide detailed instructions and allow participants to engage in discussions about program updates, challenges, and innovative solutions.

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Why Field Implementers Are Key

Field implementers are the critical link between policymakers and the classroom. Their role ensures that programs like the Strengthened SHS Program are executed efficiently, reaching students across the Philippines.

Participation in these meetings:

• Promotes collaboration and professional development among educators.

• Ensures transparent and accountable fund utilization.

• Aligns regional implementers with national education standards.

Active participation allows field implementers to share best practices, contributing to stronger educational outcomes nationwide.

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Preparing for the Meeting

Participants are encouraged to:

• Review the Monitoring and Evaluation Guidelines ahead of time.

• Gather questions related to fund utilization or program implementation.

• Ensure a stable internet connection for seamless Zoom participation.

Being prepared ensures a productive meeting where implementers can gain practical insights for SHS program success.

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The Future of SHS in the Philippines

The Strengthened Senior High School Program is part of a broader vision to enhance education and workforce readiness in the Philippines. Meetings like this help educators stay updated on guidelines, financial processes, and emerging trends—ensuring that students receive consistent, high-quality education.

For international readers observing global education trends, this demonstrates the importance of continuous professional development, resource management, and regional collaboration—concepts relevant in education systems worldwide.

Philippines Moves Closer to Finalizing 2026 Budget

The Philippines has taken a major step toward finalizing its national spending plan for 2026. On Thursday, December 4, 2025, the Senate approved on second reading the proposed ₱6.793-trillion General Appropriations Bill (GAB). Senate President Vicente Sotto III announced that the third reading may take place as early as December 9, keeping the government on track to avoid a reenacted budget and maintain fiscal stability.

For readers around the world — including U.S.-based observers who follow Asian markets, global governance, or Philippine economic developments — this update highlights where the country is heading in terms of public investment, growth priorities, and long-term planning.

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Why the 2026 Budget Matters

The national budget is more than a financial document. It reflects the priorities of the government and the direction of the nation’s development. The 2026 spending plan aims to strengthen public services, boost infrastructure, support social welfare programs, and promote economic resilience in a rapidly shifting global environment.

For the Filipino diaspora, investors, and international partners, the passage of the budget signals continuity, stability, and the government’s commitment to growth-driven strategies.

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What the Senate’s Second Reading Approval Means

The approval on second reading represents one of the most crucial phases of the legislative process. Here’s why:

• The bill has passed extensive debates and proposed amendments.

• It now moves to the third and final reading, where senators vote on the complete, finalized version.

• Once approved, the bill may be harmonized with the House of Representatives version if there are differences.

• After that, it proceeds to the Office of the President for signing into law.

The momentum toward a December 9 third reading means lawmakers are pushing for an on-time budget to allow the government to fund new programs at the start of 2026.

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The Scale of the 2026 Budget: ₱6.793 Trillion

The proposed budget is among the largest in Philippine history. It reflects the government’s continued focus on:

• Infrastructure development

• Education and social protection

• Healthcare capacity building

• Climate resilience and disaster preparedness

• Digital transformation and public sector modernization

Such priorities align with long-term economic expansion efforts and global development trends.

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Why International Audiences Should Pay Attention

Although the budget is a domestic matter, its impact extends beyond the country's borders. Here’s why a global audience — including U.S.-based readers — may find it relevant:

1. Economic Stability Signals

A timely budget helps ensure predictable public spending, bolstering investor confidence and sustaining economic growth.

2. Regional Trade & Investment

The Philippines is a major player in Southeast Asia. With growing economic ties to the U.S. and other global partners, its fiscal direction matters to international markets.

3. Opportunities for BPO, Tech & Investment

Budget allocations toward digitization, infrastructure, and workforce development can shape opportunities for partnerships, outsourcing, and expansion.

4. Stronger Public Services for OFWs and Diaspora Families

Millions of Filipino families worldwide are directly impacted by budget decisions affecting healthcare, education, and disaster response within the country.

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What’s Next: The December 9 Third Reading

Senate President Vicente Sotto III signaled that the third reading may happen on December 9, bringing the country closer to enacting the 2026 national budget before the year ends.

If this timeline holds:

1. The Senate finalizes the bill.

2. Any differences with the House version will be reconciled.

3. The president signs the bill into law before January 1, 2026.

This would ensure national agencies can implement new programs and avoid delays in public service delivery.

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What the Budget Means for Filipinos

A timely, effective budget can improve daily life in meaningful ways:

Better Public Services

From schools to hospitals, well-funded programs mean accessible and improved government services.

More Infrastructure Projects

Roads, bridges, flood control systems, and digital infrastructure translate into jobs and long-term economic impact.

Stronger Disaster Preparedness

With climate-related risks rising, increased funding can protect communities and enhance resilience.

Economic Confidence

Clear fiscal direction supports market stability, local investment, and family-level financial planning.

For overseas Filipinos, this translates into increased confidence that remittances are supporting a country moving toward stability and progress.

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The second-reading approval of the ₱6.793-trillion 2026 General Appropriations Bill marks a significant milestone. As the Philippines prepares for the third reading on December 9, the country demonstrates momentum toward sustaining growth, strengthening public services, and supporting long-term development.

For both Filipinos and global observers, the 2026 budget is not just about numbers — it is about shaping opportunities, ensuring stability, and charting a path toward a more resilient future.

LGUs Urged to Take Bigger Role in Learning Recovery Under New SEF Guidelines

Education doesn’t happen in classrooms alone—it grows through communities, local leaders, and the systems that support young learners every day. This week, Education Secretary Sonny Angara called on local government units (LGUs) across the Philippines to take a more active role in the country’s learning recovery efforts, echoing the nationwide push by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen foundational skills, literacy, and student well-being.

With new national guidelines expanding how the Special Education Fund (SEF) may be used, LGUs are now positioned to support academic recovery more efficiently, especially for early-grade learners. The update reflects a global trend seen in many countries—including the U.S.—where community-led education initiatives have shown long-term benefits for improving reading, nutrition, and school readiness.

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New SEF Guidelines: What’s Changing and Why It Matters

The transformation began with the signing of a new Joint Circular (JC) between the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Department of Finance (DOF). This JC updates all previous issuances from 2017 and 2020 and introduces broader, more meaningful ways to use the SEF.

Expanded Allowed Expenses

The updated SEF guidelines now prioritize investments that directly impact student outcomes, such as:

• Early-grade literacy programs

• National Feeding Program support

• Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) initiatives

• Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) projects

These align with global best practices stressing the importance of strong early literacy and child nutrition—areas proven to influence long-term academic success.

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Focusing on What Matters Most: Kinder Readiness, Health, and Academic Support

According to Secretary Angara, the new guidelines are centered on key developmental pillars:

1. School Readiness

Ensuring that children enter Kindergarten prepared is foundational. With expanded SEF use, LGUs can now allocate funds for early childhood learning tools and programs that boost cognitive and language development.

2. Student Health and Nutrition

The guidelines allow SEF to support programs that keep students healthy for more than 200 days per school year—a major advantage in communities where nutrition can affect attendance and academic performance.

3. Academic Tutoring & Recovery

Academic tutors and learning recovery programs have become essential, especially after global learning losses from the pandemic. The new rules give LGUs more flexibility to deploy tutoring programs tailored to local needs.

4. 21st Century Learning Spaces

With the inclusion of digital tools in allowed SEF expenditures, LGUs can now help transform classrooms into technology-ready, future-facing learning environments—something education systems worldwide are prioritizing.

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More Inclusive Local School Boards and Community Involvement

A notable feature of the updated circular is the expansion of Local School Board (LSB) membership. This includes:

• Alternative Learning System (ALS) implementers

• Parents of learners with disabilities

• Representatives from local tech-voc institutions

• Members from local higher education institutions

This broader representation ensures that school decisions reflect real community needs, making education planning more responsive and inclusive.

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LGUs to Play a Larger Role in Classroom Construction by 2026

One of the biggest highlights is the proposed special provision in the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA). Under this provision, LGUs will be allowed to help build school infrastructure using:

• National appropriations

• Cost-sharing arrangements

• Local resources

DepEd’s goal: maximize the ₱85.4 billion allocated for 25,500 new classrooms and facilities to reduce the nationwide 165,000-classroom backlog.

Where LGUs Come In

Local governments will help by:

• Validating current classroom shortages

• Monitoring construction progress

• Identifying potential temporary learning spaces

• Accelerating land titling and building permit processes

This approach mirrors collaborative infrastructure models in other countries, where local governments speed up educational infrastructure delivery by cutting through bureaucracy.

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A Long-Term Partnership with ULAP

The Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) is set to release a resolution reinforcing its long-term collaboration with DepEd. The partnership will focus on five major areas:

1. Classroom and school facilities development

2. Community-based literacy and ALS support

3. School health and nutrition systems

4. Digital learning and data-sharing

5. Strong SEF utilization through joint policy work

This multi-sector partnership recognizes that learning recovery is not just a school issue—it’s a community mission.

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Why This Matters to a Global Audience

The Philippines is not alone in addressing learning gaps, food insecurity, and classroom shortages. Education systems worldwide—from the U.S. to Southeast Asia—are reassessing how local governments and communities can strengthen foundations for young learners.

The reforms in the Philippines reflect broader education strategies seen globally:

• Community-driven education solutions

• Flexible funding models

• Early literacy interventions

• Collaborative school governance

• Digital readiness initiatives

For Filipino families abroad, educators, and global readers interested in education policy, these reforms offer insight into how nations rebuild stronger, more inclusive learning systems after a challenging decade.

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A New Era of Shared Responsibility

Secretary Sonny Angara’s call to action highlights a new direction for Philippine education—one where local governments aren’t just supporters but active partners in shaping student success.

With new SEF guidelines, expanded LSB involvement, and upcoming provisions for school infrastructure, the path forward leans on collaboration, innovation, and community strength.

As the country works to close gaps in literacy, nutrition, and classrooms, these reforms represent a hopeful shift toward a modern, resilient, and inclusive educational landscape.

“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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.