National Heroes’ Day

 

A hero does not mean a human being that possesses supernatural abilities. A hero may be defined as someone who did great works and made sacrifices in order to help others and be the voice of everybody.

On the 25th day or August, a day declared as a special non-working holiday, because today we shall acknowledge the national heroes of our country. It is not only an act of mere observance but rather a humble recognition of the sacrifices they made so we could attain improvement and freedom within our nation.

“Sa manlulupig, ‘di ka pasisiil.” This sentence served as the evidence of our heroes’ fuel. They embraced these words as they fought against the invaders through revolution. These five words became their diesel to ignite their passionate love for the country, and thus they put their lives on the line to serve for the sake of our nation.

So, today, as we remember their exceptional oblation, let us not only remember it. Let us acknowledge and reflect on the patriotism they had for us to achieve the sovereignty that we now enjoy. And as the new generation, let us become not just something heroic by the book, but people who do kind and good things for others. Because being a hero does not start with saving the whole country or even the world; it starts from our internal values—being open-handed in helping others, being a humane human.

Be a light to everybody, not a night that brings gloominess to everyone.

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙖𝙘𝙧𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙉𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜

Poem by Kylie Nichole Medina 

So take my remaining 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨,

and replace it with their 𝙨𝙖𝙙𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨.

If it means to be a saint,

In this labyrinth of chains. 

I deserve all of the 𝙨𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨, 

even if I end up in 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨. 

Use me as your rope to pull.

For once let me be useful.

All the burden they bear,

are they aware of my care?

They do not deserve trouble.

Forget and use me as a double.

Wishing everyone the best,

Everyone but I behest.

So dispose of me like I'm 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜,

For I do not deserve 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜.

‎Sucat Senior High School Holds First-ever ARAL Program Division Orientation ‎

Educators and officials from across Muntinlupa gathered at Sucat Senior High School on August 14–15, 2025, for the first-ever Division Orientation of the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) program, which aims to address learning gaps by providing necessary strategies.

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‎The program opened with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, followed by a prayer and an energizer activity to set the tone among participants. CID Chief Education Supervisor Dr. Florante C. Marmeto delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing, "The ARAL program will not only help learners catch up but also excel. Together, we can ensure that every learner receives the quality education they deserve." This was followed by the Statement of Purpose presented by the Public Schools District Supervisor Dr. Jaime Bautista, who pointed out that the ARAL program's goal is to intervene and not replace other learning strategies.

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‎Day 1 focused on presenting the framework of the ARAL Program and the interventions under Republic Act No. 12028. Discussions highlighted literacy and numeracy, and how, through both face-to-face and digital modalities, it could be strengthened. To ensure participants clearly understood the program's guidelines, objectives, and importance, the session was primarily led by Dr. Marmeto and Dr. Bautista. Every presentation included an open forum and question-and-answer segment, allowing educators and officials to share insights and experiences in a meaningful way. 

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‎On the second day, the program began with the same routine. Councilor Jedidiah "Jedi" Fresnedi was then introduced, stressing the urgency of the program by citing the rate of illiteracy among students in Muntinlupa. He emphasized that to help learners overcome challenges and build stronger foundations for the future, early education must be strengthened and teachers must be supported.

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‎To help the participants recall what they had learned from the previous day, a quiz activity was held. Afterwards, Dr. Lilia Ricero led a session on learning strategies, highlighting the importance of collaboration in making the ARAL Program effective across the schools.

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‎ During the two-day orientation, participants engaged in meaningful conversations, exchanging information and approaches to guarantee successful implementation. The session repeatedly emphasized the shared responsibility of teachers, school leaders, parents, and the local government in addressing these gaps.

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‎The Division Orientation concluded with a shared commitment to the ARAL Program’s mission of ensuring that no learner is left behind. Muntinlupa’s educators left the event with renewed determination and concrete strategies to help students catch up and overcome learning challenges in the city.

S.O.A.R. AS ONE! Sucat Senior High School conducts Program Implementation Review

On Wednesday, 6th of August 2025, Sucat Senior High School (SSHS) held a Program Implementation Review at the school's multi-purpose hall with the theme S.O.A.R. (Synergize stakeholders, Open Opportunities, Advance Change, Rise) As One. The school held this event with the aim of discussing specific school issues and reviewing programs presented by school personnel as a contribution to solving these problems.

The said event was led by Mr. John Lester Malvar as the appointed master of ceremonies. The program commenced with Mr. Jan Rae Quiton delivering the acknowledgement of panels and participants, followed by the statement of purpose by Mr. Mark Lhester De Mesa, PIR Coordinator. Moreover, welcoming remarks were delivered by Dr. Jay Boy Evano, PhD, OIC-Principal, highlighting that “We are all in this together” as we navigate these issues. The school principal then welcomed the panels, participants, and guests that attended the program. The list of honorable guests who shared their time in the event is as follows:

•Dr. Meniano D. Ebora, PhD

PUBLIC SCHOOLS DISTRICT SUPERVISOR 

•Dr. Zoren Pepito L. Gubalane, DPA 

SENIOR EDUCATION PROGRAM SPECIALIST

•MUNteen: Merry Claire San Juan

PROJECT EVALUATION OFFICER II

•Christine Tekiner

CPC BARANGAY REPRESENTATIVE 

•Rosalih Guron

GPTA PRESIDENT

•Marian Cristina Cipriano

SSLG PRESIDENT

Several programs were presented at the event with the best interests of both the learners and educators in mind. Some programs discussed were aimed at improving mental health, rights awareness, maintaining cleanliness, and improving the academic success of students.

The first project, A.K.A.P. (Alaga sa Kalusugang Pangkaisipan), was presented by Ms. Marianne Montilla, highlighting mental health awareness, engaging 80% of learners and school personnel to collaborate in the program, and targeting to facilitate the referral of 100% of learners needing mental health services. With the help of partner organizations, 700 learners received peer counseling and stress reduction strategies addressing mental challenges such as suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and depression. The project gave emphasis on intervention from time to time, assuring that they would facilitate a supportive learning environment, all while tracking better mental health outcomes.

Next on the program, Project S.H.A.R.P. (Strengthening Harmony and Advancing Rights Protection) was presented by Mr. Jorge Endozo. The project emphasizes the understanding of learners, educators, and school staff towards their rights. The project was reported to have successfully reached nearly 99% of learners, 85% of teachers, and 100% of non-teaching personnel. The said program addresses cases such as absenteeism, bullying, and abuse. In addition, the program encourages inclusivity and respect for each other inside the school. It targets to undertake adequate, necessary, and individualized responses to 100% of reported cases based on relevant policies, including DO 18, s. 2015, DO 40, s. 2012, and DO 49, s. 2006. The program also emphasized the implementation of "I-QR na 'yan," launched last month, which focuses on a survey form for students and other personnel who experienced or witnessed school violations such as bullying, discrimination, and rule-breaking. The said program successfully established clear referral pathways and partnerships with external agencies such as the Barangay, Police, MUNteen Center, SAGIP, LSWDOO, etc.

Meanwhile, Project S.E.Cu.R.E. (Sex Education towards a Culture of Responsibility and Empowerment), presented by Ma’am Josephine Nietes, aimed to increase sexual health awareness to at least 80% of learners, school personnel, and parents through partnerships with various organizations. The project seeks to support and ensure that education is still accessible to 100% of challenged and pregnant learners. It also emphasizes that learners in need of sexual or reproductive health services are all going to be facilitated and provided with the help of government and non-government agencies.

Furthermore is the Project L.E.A.R.N. (Leveraging Educational Achievement Reinforcement Network) by Ms. Jasmin Velasco. The project aspires to provide remedial intervention and academic support for at least 80% of students in need of assistance in comprehension, reading, science, technology, and mathematics. It was mentioned that the said project's support had influenced the academic performance of 72 learners struggling with their subjects. Those students were able to accomplish and pass the subjects that they lacked within the prescribed time, ensuring that they graduate on time. 

Last on the list was Project W.A.G.I. (Wins for Accelerated and Greater Improvement), presented by Ms. Princess Mae De Mesa. The said project intends to attain a 3-Star WinS (Wash in School) rating and to have safety training and audits. The school has already achieved a 2-Star WinS rating—which is a good step up from its previous 1-Star status. The project mentioned the school's access to potable water, good maintenance, and hygienic premises, which are essential in creating a healthier and more secure school environment.

In an interview with the SucSenian campus journalists, the panels shared their insights, highlighting the significance of having these kinds of events and ongoing projects in connection with addressing school issues. Rosalih Guron, the GPTA president, shared her thoughts about the importance of initiatives, mentioning how these projects help in resolving mental health problems such as suicide. "Marami akong nababalitaan sa ibang lugar na they end their own life. So yes, with these projects, nakaka-help talaga siya sa pag-address ng ganitong mga issues, hindi lang naman sa school pero overall na rin," she stated.

In addition to that, Merry Claire San Juan, MPDO representative, showed positivity about the attainability of these projects. "These projects are attainable naman. Nakikita ko naman na the school is working altogether. Of course, kasama si Sir Jayboy Evano for addressing these problems sa school. Nakikita ko na rin na attainable ang projects, lalo na yung sa pagbaba ng kaso ng teenage pregnancy sa lugar natin," she mentioned.

Similarly, Ms. Cristina Cipriano, SSLG President, and Ms. Christine Tekiner, Barangay CICL In-Charge, recognized the effectiveness of these programs. Ms. Cipriano commended how the presenters shared their goals for their projects and backed it all with data and statistics. Meanwhile, Ms. Tekiner pointed out the decrease in reported cases, mentioning the few numbers of tendencies that reached out to the Barangay—proving that the projects had an impact on the community. Ultimately, the presenters proved the positive results and the attainability of the projects.

Towards the end, the event then proceeded to the awarding of certificates to honor the panels and presenters. The event then finally concluded with Ma'am Emelda Ozaraga, Head Teacher III, delivering the closing remarks.

Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 Refined: DepEd Imposes Stricter Rules

On Monday, the 4th of August, the Department of Education has revised the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for Republic Act 10627, or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, where it was signed by DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara. Its aim is to protect students and create a safer learning environment. It was emphasized by Angara that a student skip classes due to bullying and other effects that hinder students to learn and it was proven by studies that bullying was the cause of it. DepEd has requested the assistance of the Philippine National Police (PNP), which they have agreed to receive bullying complaints through the emergency hotline, 911.

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‎The Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM) highlighted that the major policy overhaul features a broader definition of bullying, a tiered system for managing cases, and stricter sanctions for non-compliance. The updated rules expand the scope of bullying beyond just physical or verbal acts. The DepEd Central Office will now officially oversee all anti-bullying initiatives and maintain a centralized record of reported cases to help enhance existing policies. Under the IRR, all public and private schools are required to implement a standard anti-bullying policy, and they may adjust these said policies to fit specific social contexts, which will be distributed by the DepEd Central Office. 

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‎Part of the new implemented rules is to appoint a Learner Formation Officer who will act as the first responder and handler of complaints. Schools will then be required to introduce a three-level system for addressing bullying, depending on the severity of offenses. Moreover, the Learner Formation Officer will be the one to handle the minor cases not resolved by the teachers. However, more serious cases will involve the school principal, parents, and, when needed, law enforcement.

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‎School districts are also required to establish their own anti-bullying policies, particularly in under-resourced areas. There will be a sanction for non-compliance with the anti-bullying policy for both public and private schools.

𝖡𝖺𝗆 𝖠𝗊𝗎𝗂𝗇𝗈: 𝖬𝖺𝗄𝖾 𝖤𝖽𝗎𝖼𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈n'𝗌 𝖡𝗎𝖽𝗀𝖾𝗍 '𝖧𝗂𝗀𝗁𝖾𝗌𝗍 𝖤𝗏𝖾𝗋' 𝗍𝗈 𝖠𝖽𝗋𝖾𝗌𝗌 𝖯𝗋𝗈𝖻𝗅𝖾𝗆𝗌 at the Education Sector

Senator Bam Aquino on Monday, called on both executive and legislative branches of the government to allocate the biggest budget in the nation's history to help the education sector address their long-standing problems. Bam's appeal became a response to President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr.'s recent fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) which he said that education is a must and a top concern of his administration. 

The senator discussed major issues inside the educational system such as scarcity of classrooms in which it was reported that over a hundred and sixty five thousand classrooms are needed for public schools, students were observed studying on covered courts, waiting sheds and having a two to three learning shifts. Another issue that was highlighted was internet connectivity, Bam mentioned that he signed a law in 2017 (Republic Act No. 10929) highlighting free internet access to public spaces. 

Additionally, he also wanted to resolve problems in illiteracy, nutrition, and scarcity of learning materials for the students. He also appealed a support for teachers who are experiencing over working but still being under paid. Senator Aquino amended to have a change for the funds in order to provide varieties of solutions in terms of addressing educational problems.

Bam Aquino who is currently the Senate Committee on basic education highlighted the demand for increased funding in terms of addressing challenges faced by the country's education system. During an interview on "Unang Balita" the senator said "Well, makikita natin 'yan sa budget. Nung isang araw, nanawagan na nga tayo na itaas ang budget ng edukasyon, gawin natin itong highest ever sa ating kasaysayan para matugunan ang mga iba't ibang problema" indicating that government's priorities would reflect on how the national budget is used. 

The senator emphasized the significance of accountability when it comes to the promises stated in the SONA. "Babantayan ng committee on basic education 'yung mga pangakong 'yan. Of course natutuwa naman tayo na gawing priority ang edukasyon sa mga susunod na mga taon pero kailangang masigurado na 'yung binabanggit sa SONA nangyayari talaga," he stated.