SAN FERNANDO CITY –  The Department of Education Regional Office I (DepEd –ROI) launched the first episode of the monthly Kumustahan sa DepEd Rehiyon Uno and Press Conference held at the National Education Academy of the Philippines Region 1 on January 28, 2021. 

Regional Director Tolentino G. Aquinoin his preliminary statement, said the program aims to communicate via Facebook platform the programs, projects, and activities implemented by the different functional divisions of the Regional Office and to feature the achievements and accomplishments of the 14 Schools Division Offices (SDOs). 

 He explained that prior to the pandemic, the key officials of the Region visit schools, particularly the teachers, learners, and field personnel, including the SDO officials most especially in the far-flung areas to know their educational concerns and to address them 

 The DepEd ROI head also underscored the significance of communication towards reaching internal and external stakeholders. He expressed his gratitude to the Media practitioners for their vital contribution to the dissemination of the mandates of the Department.  

 Meanwhile, Chief Education Supervisor Arlene A. Niro of the Curriculum and Learning Management Division discussed about the Assigned Readings for the Advancement of Learning known as ARAL sa Bahay; production of Alternative Instructional Resources; One Year One Story project; and the creation of Curriculum Matters which is a YouTube channel for the dissemination of learning resources. 

 “The teachers will not be able to measure what their learners have learned including their progress, if the parents keep on answering the self-learning modules intended for their children,” Niro said when queried by the Media.  

“Let us continue to guide and help the students cope up with this new normal learning,” she added. 

Chief Administrative Officer Arnold I. Vino of the Finance Division, on the other hand, enumerated the benefits given to the DepEd teaching personnel. 

They include the Service Recognition Incentive; cash allowance of teacherswhich will be used for their annual medical examination, supplies, internet subscription and communication expensesannual World Teachers’ Day incentive; and special hardship allowance provided for multi-grade teachers, mobile, and Alternative Learning System teachers.   

 By: Joan Diaz-Sabado, Public Affairs Unit