San Fernando City — The Department of Education (DepEd), through the Curriculum and Learning Management Division (CLMD), conducted an orientation on the salient provisions of Republic Act (RA) 11650 on August 5-9, 2024, at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines – Region I.

 

The four-day activity aims to promote understanding of the said law, provide an avenue for sharing of experiences regarding the operation of DepEd-established Inclusive Learning Resource Centers (ILRC), and gather recommendations on its implementation.

 

Participants include select public schools district supervisors, school heads, and head teachers from the 14 Schools Division Offices.

“Inclusive education in the Philippines has been an evolving field, with ongoing efforts to ensure that all students, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or circumstances, have access to quality education,” Mary Ann Grace Dulay, education program supervisor from CLMD, said.

 

Regional Director (RD) Tolentino G. Aquino and Assistant RD Rhoda T. Razon in their messages challenged the participants to share their learnings from the activity and implement attainable plans, programs, and activities in their respective divisions and schools in support of inclusive education.

 

Among the challenges identified that affect the effectiveness and reach of inclusive education are insufficient resources with many schools lacking resources, such as special education teachers, assistive technology, and specialized learning materials, to support learners with diverse needs.

 

Participants also cited teachers having limited training in inclusive education practices; overcrowded classrooms; accessibility issues; and limited support services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling.

Lastly, a lack of awareness among educators, parents, and the public and the negative attitudes or stigma towards people with disabilities can hinder the acceptance and integration of these learners into regular classrooms.

 

“Overall, while there have been significant strides in promoting inclusive education, continued efforts are needed to address challenges and ensure that all learners have equal opportunities to succeed,” Dulay said.

 

RA 11650 states that all public schools nationwide are required to identify learners with special needs and provide these learners with free basic and quality education. It also mandates that all cities and municipalities have at least one ILRC.

 

An ILRC is a physical or virtual center that provides teaching and learning support through appropriate, accessible, and gender-sensitive materials. (j)

 

By: Mary Ann Grace Dulay, Education Program Supervisor, CLMD