Category: Literacy

ISTANBUL - The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) emphasized the importance of enhancing the internationalization of higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines during the 9th annual EURASIA Higher Education (EURIE) Summit.

According to Philippines News Agency, who delivered a keynote speech at the event held in Istanbul, Turkey, Philippine universities have been actively pursuing internationalization since 2016 as a means to elevate educational quality and produce graduates who are both locally responsive and globally competitive.

De Vera highlighted the significant progress made in the international recognition of Philippine HEIs, noting that participation in the Times Higher Education (THE) impact ranking has surged from a single HEI in 2019 to 60 HEIs. This growth underscores the country's commitment to global educational standards and its efforts to showcase the capabilities of its higher education sector on the international stage.

The Philippine government, De Vera mentioned, is now prioritizing fields such as science and technology, agriculture, medicine, and allied health sciences. Additionally, efforts are being made to promote university-industry linkages that ensure graduates possess skills that match industry needs. This strategic focus aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to continuously enhance the quality of higher education institutions in the Philippines.

De Vera also expressed the country's interest in expanding bilateral relations with Turkey in the higher education sector and invited delegates from other countries to explore partnership opportunities with the Philippines. He emphasized the importance of addressing challenges that hinder access to higher education for marginalized groups, including the impacts of war and conflict, the digital divide, and global and regional disparities.

The EURIE Summit, themed Building Global Connections, serves as a platform for higher education leaders to discuss and forge international collaborations. The 2024 summit will continue to host discussions and workshops until Thursday. Representing the Philippines, CHED, along with six university presidents, participated in the delegation, showcasing the country's dedication to strengthening its higher education institutions through international cooperation.

ISTANBUL - The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) emphasized the importance of enhancing the internationalization of higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines during the 9th annual EURASIA Higher Education (EURIE) Summit.

According to Philippines News Agency, who delivered a keynote speech at the event held in Istanbul, Turkey, Philippine universities have been actively pursuing internationalization since 2016 as a means to elevate educational quality and produce graduates who are both locally responsive and globally competitive.

De Vera highlighted the significant progress made in the international recognition of Philippine HEIs, noting that participation in the Times Higher Education (THE) impact ranking has surged from a single HEI in 2019 to 60 HEIs. This growth underscores the country's commitment to global educational standards and its efforts to showcase the capabilities of its higher education sector on the international stage.

The Philippine government, De Vera mentioned, is now prioritizing fields such as science and technology, agriculture, medicine, and allied health sciences. Additionally, efforts are being made to promote university-industry linkages that ensure graduates possess skills that match industry needs. This strategic focus aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to continuously enhance the quality of higher education institutions in the Philippines.

De Vera also expressed the country's interest in expanding bilateral relations with Turkey in the higher education sector and invited delegates from other countries to explore partnership opportunities with the Philippines. He emphasized the importance of addressing challenges that hinder access to higher education for marginalized groups, including the impacts of war and conflict, the digital divide, and global and regional disparities.

The EURIE Summit, themed Building Global Connections, serves as a platform for higher education leaders to discuss and forge international collaborations. The 2024 summit will continue to host discussions and workshops until Thursday. Representing the Philippines, CHED, along with six university presidents, participated in the delegation, showcasing the country's dedication to strengthening its higher education institutions through international cooperation.

CEBU CITY - The Department of Education in Central Visayas (DepEd-7) has called on parents to lodge formal complaints against abusive teachers through the department's Child Protection Unit, rather than turning to social media platforms.

According to Philippines News Agency, who spoke at a forum on Tuesday, actions taken in response to incidents of abuse or maltreatment should prioritize the best interests of the learners involved.

Jimenez highlighted that DepEd Order 49 outlines the official procedure for investigating reports of abuse by teachers. He expressed concern that airing grievances on social media could potentially complicate the investigation process and impede the pursuit of truth. "We never tolerated abuses. We already have cases wherein teachers were sanctioned because of their actions. Corporal punishment is certainly not allowed," Jimenez stated, emphasizing the department's stance on maintaining a safe and supportive educational environment.

The call to action from DepEd-7 follows the virality of a video on Facebook depicting a boy being maltreated by a teacher, allegedly uploaded by the child's mother. Jimenez stressed the importance of considering the impact such public disclosures may have on the affected learner and advocated for a formal investigation process that ensures the child's welfare.

Jimenez also reminded educators of the importance of self-control and adherence to the law when disciplining students. "While we understand how passionate teachers are in their role to teach and discipline the learners, we keep on reminding them that we need also to have that control, especially in our emotions because we have a law to follow," he added.

The regional director confirmed that the case is currently under investigation, noting that preliminary reports have been received even though the parent who posted the controversial video has yet to file a formal complaint.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN — The Ministry of Education's Spiritual Activities Division, within the Department of Co-Curricular Education, recently concluded the Spiritual Village Programme for National Secondary Schools and Colleges in collaboration with the youth of Ash-Shaliheen mosque and Masjid Universiti, UBD. The event was hosted at Masjid Universiti, UBD.

According to Radio Television Brunei, Awang Julaihi bin Mohamad @ Mohamat, the Director of Co-curricular Education, was present at the ceremony which saw participation from 96 individuals. The two-day programme was designed to foster an appreciation of Islamic life practices among students, as well as to instill a sense of national spirit and patriotism.

GINGOOG CITY - Officials in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, declared a bomb threat targeting a public school to be unfounded following an investigation, as confirmed by police and local government authorities on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the scare, which affected the Gingoog City Comprehensive National High School in Barangay 23, led to the evacuation of students and staff around 10:30 a.m., even before law enforcement arrived on the scene.

In response to the incident, Mayor Erick Cañosa convened law enforcement units and department officials to trace the origins of the bomb threat that had been circulated online. This situation prompted some public schools in the area to preemptively cancel classes as a precautionary measure. Upon arrival, the police team took positions at the school's gate, while others engaged in an information campaign regarding the handling of bomb threats to educate and reassure the community.

The authorities have issued a warning about the legal consequences of disseminating false information regarding bomb threats, highlighting the seriousness with which such matters are treated. Under Presidential Decree 1727, also known as the Anti-Bomb Joke Law, individuals found guilty of spreading bomb hoaxes face penalties including imprisonment for up to five years and fines not exceeding PHP40,000.

This incident underscores the importance of responsible communication and the impact of false alarms on community safety and resources.

KUALA LUMPUR — During her visit to Malaysia, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte emphasized the importance of launching 'flagship projects' aimed at supporting teachers and learners. Her visit underscores the Philippines' commitment to enhancing education and fostering the well-being of students and educators within the Southeast Asian region.

According to Philippines News Agency, who currently serves as the president of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), the agenda for her discussions with the Malaysian government includes crucial topics such as teacher education and the protection and well-being of learners. "We hope to work with the Malaysian government with regard to teacher education and learner's protection and well-being," Duterte stated upon her arrival on Monday.

During her stay, Duterte is scheduled to meet with Malaysian Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and Deputy Prime Minister Dato' Sri Fadillah Yusof on Tuesday. Additionally, her itinerary includes visits to the TROPMED School at the SEAMEO Center and Setapak Vocational College, highlighting her focus on educational collaboration and exchanges.

SEAMEO, established in 1965, is a regional intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting cooperation in education, science, and culture among countries in Southeast Asia.

Furthermore, Duterte addressed her relationship with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., dispelling any speculation about discord. "We have no problem with each other. President Bongbong Marcos and I are doing good. We are okay in terms of our relationship, both personal and work relationship," she affirmed. She also mentioned that discussions about the remarks made by her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and her brother, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, against the chief executive had not taken place.

In her commitment to convey President Marcos' sentiments to the Filipino community in Malaysia, Duterte said, "The message of President Bongbong Marcos for our OFWs is also a message of love, especially with Valentine's Day coming. His message of love and hard work for the betterment of our country so we can see a new Philippines." This message is particularly poignant as she prepares to dine with Filipino community leaders in Malaysia on Tuesday night, further strengthening ties between the Philippines and its citizens working abroad.

SAN JUAN CITY — Adamson University celebrated a historic victory in the UAAP high school boys basketball tournament by securing the title against National University-Nazareth School (NU-NS) with a decisive 90-73 win at the Filoil EcoOil Centre on Sunday.

According to Philippines News Agency, this triumph marks the first time Adamson has claimed the championship since 1993, ending a 31-year drought. The victory in Game 3 of the Season 86 championship was spearheaded by JC Bonzalida and Tebol Garcia, who both scored 15 points. Bonzalida also grabbed 10 rebounds, while Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) Mark Esperanza added 13 points, six rebounds, and four assists to the winning effort.

Adamson had a strong start in the series with a 77-71 win on February 4, but NU-NS bounced back with a 67-64 victory on February 7, setting the stage for the decisive match. Despite the loss, NU-NS's Nigerian standout Collins Akowe, who was named Season MVP, showcased his talent with 18 points, 13 rebounds, and three assists. Mac-Mac Alfanta contributed 16 points for the Bullpups.

The Baby Falcons had an impressive run throughout the season, winning all but one of their 14 elimination round games. Their only setback was last year's finals, where they were defeated by Far Eastern University-Diliman.

The final scores for the championship game were Adamson 90, with key contributions from Bonzalida, Garcia, Esperanza, Perez (11 points), Reyes (10 points), Carillo (9 points), Medina (8 points), Umali (5 points), and Sajili (4 points). NU-NS scored 73, with Akowe and Alfanta leading the scoring, followed by Tagotongan (12 points), Solomon (8 points), and Yusi (7 points).

The quarter breakdowns were 24-15, 43-32, 62-53, leading to the final 90-73, signaling a triumphant return for Adamson University to the pinnacle of UAAP junior basketball.

The Philippine House of Representatives has passed a bill aimed at reinforcing the roles of Parent-Teacher and Community Associations (PTCA) in the holistic development of children. On Wednesday, the bill, known as House Bill (HB) 9670, received approval with 202 votes on its third and final reading. This legislation proposes amendments to Presidential Decree 603, also known as the Child and Youth Welfare Code.

According to Philippines News Agency, the bill underscores the legislature's commitment to promoting child welfare and protecting children's rights. By fostering collaboration among parents, teachers, school officials, and communities, the bill aims to ensure the protection and welfare of children. The measure mandates the organization of a PTCA in every early child development center and basic education school to serve as a platform for addressing educational issues and enhancing parental involvement in educational programs.

The PTCA will comprise parents, parent-substitutes, teachers, community development workers, and recognized community groups from various sectors, emphasizing the inclusion of fathers and male caregivers in its activities. Its responsibilities include assisting local authorities and school officials in child welfare advocacy, developing child development programs, consulting with children and their representatives on program planning and implementation, and supporting child protection policies in schools and communities.

The bill was co-authored by several lawmakers, including Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda K. Romualdez, Jude Acidre, BHW Party-list Rep. Angelica Natasha Co, Quezon City Rep. Franz Pumaren, TGP Party-list Rep. Jose Teves Jr., Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado Revilla, and Parañaque City Rep. Edwin Olivarez.

In a related development, the House also unanimously passed HB 9726, the 'Expanded Philippine Science High School System Act,' with 217 votes. This bill seeks to double the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) campuses per region, restricting to one campus per province, to bolster the institution's role in secondary Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. Speaker Romualdez highlighted the bill's objective to make world-class STEM education more accessible to deserving Filipino students nationwide. The proposed law also empowers the PSHS Board of Trustees to develop policies ensuring the maintenance of educational standards across all PSHS campuses and outlines the management of income generated from school fees.

SAN JUAN CITY – The National University Nazareth School (NUNS) moved a step closer to clinching the UAAP Season 86 boys volleyball title after overcoming the University of the East in a tightly contested match, 39-37, 26-24, 22-25, 25-21, on Tuesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre. The victory places the Bullpups within one win of securing the championship in this best-of-three series.

According to Philippines News Agency, team captain Jeffe Gallego Jr., alongside Season 85 Best Middle Blocker Migs Egger and Matthew Abut, played pivotal roles in the fourth set, leading NUNS to triumph after an intense battle lasting two hours and 15 minutes. NUNS is now eyeing its fifth overall title and will seek to close out the series in their next game, scheduled for 1 p.m. on Thursday at the same venue.

Bullpups head coach Edgar Barroga shared insights into the team's preparation and mindset, "In our rehearsals, we always emphasize the importance of resilience and not giving up, which was evident in today's game. There were moments of weakness, but the team managed to hold on until the very end, which ultimately led to our victory."

The match commenced with a dramatic first set, where Jan Macam of the University of the East scored consecutive points to take a 37-36 lead. However, NU showcased their fighting spirit by securing the next three points, clinching the set after 44 minutes of play.

Reflecting on the team's performance, Gallego, the reigning Best Setter, highlighted the unity and determination of the team's core players, "The starting six focused on the necessity of winning this season and the hard work required to achieve it. The strategies taught to us proved to be effective, contributing to our success."

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM - The 'Lakuh' Exhibition, featuring 28 art enthusiasts from across ASEAN countries including Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam, opened its doors on the evening of 3rd February at Gallery 4, Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja.

According to Radio Television Brunei, which organized the event with support from the Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja, the Museums Department, and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the exhibition was inaugurated by ambassadors and representatives from Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, and Malaysia. The exhibition, aiming to foster cultural exchange and community engagement through art, includes a creative workshop, art exhibition, community programs, and industry talks. It is open to the public until the 28th of this month.

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM - The 'Lakuh' Exhibition, featuring 28 art enthusiasts from across ASEAN countries including Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam, opened its doors on the evening of 3rd February at Gallery 4, Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja.

According to Radio Television Brunei, which organized the event with support from the Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja, the Museums Department, and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the exhibition was inaugurated by ambassadors and representatives from Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, and Malaysia. The exhibition, aiming to foster cultural exchange and community engagement through art, includes a creative workshop, art exhibition, community programs, and industry talks. It is open to the public until the 28th of this month.

TUTONG - A Fruit and Vegetable Carving Basic Skills Course was recently held at the Tutong Youth Centre, targeting young individuals and community members interested in culinary arts. The course is an integral part of the Artisan Skills Programme under the Youth Development Centre.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the initiative seeks to provide foundational knowledge and enhance skills in the culinary arts, offering the youth an opportunity to explore potential talents in this field.

JERUDONG - The 9th Higher Education Expo 2024 witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with over four thousand students and parents attending on its first day. Held at Hall 2 of BRIDEX, the two-day event is an annual initiative by the Ministry of Education designed to serve as a One Stop Information Centre for Higher Education.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the expo featured 47 exhibition booths from departments under the Ministry of Education, local and foreign higher education institutions, embassies, and related agencies, providing a pivotal platform for attendees to gather essential information on higher education opportunities.

MANILA - Oscar Joseph "OJ" Cantela, a promising Filipino chess player, is pursuing the prestigious title of FIDE Master, a recognition awarded by the World Chess Federation. The Grade 11 student at Far Eastern University - Diliman, part of the team that won the high school boys championship in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 86, is coached by Grandmaster Jayson Gonzales.

According to Philippines News Agency, achieving the FIDE Master status requires participation in international tournaments against rated players to earn Elo rating points. His quest for the title will commence at the 21st Bangkok Chess Club Open, taking place at the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort and Spa in Phetchaburi, Thailand, from April 13 to 21. Cantela, who hails from San Juan Uno, General Trias, Cavite, currently holds a National Master title and boasts Elo ratings of 2009 (standard), 1772 (rapid), and 1791 (blitz).

Cantela expressed his aspirations for the upcoming tournament in Thailand, aiming to improve his Elo rating through strong performances. His efforts in the chess community have been notable, including winning a gold medal in the 16-under category at the 12th Dato' Tan Chin Nam Foundation Open Rapid Age-Group Chess Championship on August 27 last year and gaining 100 Elo rating points at the 2023 World Youth Chess Championships in Montesilvano, Italy, on November 24.