I love Education

Have you ever met someone who can read sentences but struggles to truly understand them? That’s what we call a  functional illiterate —a person who can read and write basic words, but has trouble applying that knowledge in everyday life. Shockingly, around 24.8 million Filipinos fall under this category, according to the latest education commission report. It’s not just a statistic—it’s a reflection of how our education system and society are failing to equip people with practical skills for real-world understanding. What Does “Functional Illiterate” Mean? A  functional illiterate  is someone who technically knows how to read and write but cannot fully comprehend, analyze, or use written information effectively. For example: They can read a bus sign but struggle to follow written instructions. They might read a medicine label but misinterpret the dosage. They can sign a document but don’t fully grasp its meaning. In simple terms, it’s literacy without understanding—a sile...

Have you ever heard of a 24-year-old general who gave his life for freedom? The Philippines is commemorating the 150th Birth Anniversary of General Gregorio del Pilar , one of the youngest and most courageous heroes of the Philippine Revolution. His bravery at the Battle of Tirad Pass still echoes in classrooms and hearts today. Who Was General Gregorio del Pilar? Known as the Boy General , Gregorio del Pilar became a symbol of youthful courage and patriotism. Born in Bulacan, he rose through the ranks during the fight for independence against Spanish and American forces. His final stand at Tirad Pass—where he led just 60 men against hundreds of American soldiers—cemented his place in Philippine history as a hero of valor and selfless sacrifice. Even a century and a half later, his story continues to inspire young Filipinos to uphold love of country, courage, and leadership. DepEd’s Call to Commemorate a National Hero The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued Memorandum No....

We all know that unexpected expenses can pop up out of nowhere—a medical bill, school fees, or that one home repair that can’t wait. Good news for government workers: GSIS Ginhawa Lite is back! This short-term loan program, also known as MPL Lite , offers a lighter, faster, and more affordable way to get the funds you need—without the long waiting time. What Is GSIS Ginhawa Lite? GSIS Ginhawa Lite, officially called the Multi-Purpose Loan (MPL) Lite , is a financial assistance program from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) . It’s designed to help active GSIS members meet immediate or emergency needs through a short-term, low-interest loan. Unlike traditional loans, Ginhawa Lite lives up to its name—it’s simpler, quicker, and easier to pay back. Here’s what makes it different: 🕐 Faster Processing: Apply directly through the GSIS Touch mobile app , no need to line up. 💸 Lighter Terms: Lower monthly amortizations compared to regular MPLs. 💰 Affordable ...

A few months ago, I was sitting in a coffee shop, feeling uneasy as I scrolled through my retirement statements. “Will everything add up?” I wondered. Then I came across the news that the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) had recorded a net income of ₱112 billion as of September 2025. My anxiety eased a little—because if the country’s biggest pension fund is thriving, maybe there’s hope for my own future too. In this post, I’ll unpack what this achievement means, why it matters to ordinary members and pensioners, and what lessons we can all draw from it—whether you’re in the Philippines, the U.S., or anywhere else. What the Numbers Tell Us According to multiple reports, GSIS posted a ₱112 billion net income for the first nine months of 2025— ₱35 billion above its target . That’s a strong signal of solid management and discipline. Here’s a closer look: Total revenue: ₱260 billion (vs. ₱241.8 billion target) Total expenses: ₱148 billion (vs. ₱165 billion target) ...

Imagine thousands of classrooms sitting idle while students study in crowded hallways or under tents. That’s the irony the Department of Education (DepEd) wants to solve with its new idea—leasing unused private schools and properties. This bold move could be the most practical shortcut to tackling the country’s long-standing classroom shortage. The Classroom Shortage That Sparked Innovation In 2022, the Philippines faced a staggering classroom deficit of over 165,000 . Many schools were forced to implement shifting schedules , squeeze learners into cramped spaces, or hold classes in makeshift areas like covered courts and barangay halls. For decades, the government’s solution was simple: build more classrooms. But that approach often hit delays—slow procurement, limited funds, and the lengthy process of construction permits. Each year that passed meant more students sharing desks meant for two, and more teachers improvising their way through the chaos. That’s why DepEd, under the...

Imagine trying to focus on teaching your students while juggling hundreds of meetings, reports, and projects—none of which directly involve the classroom. That’s the reality the Department of Education (DepEd) faces today, now entangled in 261 interagency bodies across government. While collaboration sounds good on paper, this growing web of duties may be stretching the agency—and its teachers—too thin. The Expanding Web of Interagency Work DepEd’s involvement in 261 interagency bodies is no small matter. Education Secretary Sonny Angara himself described it as “coordination spread thin,” during a recent hearing with the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2). The department chairs at least 20 of these councils, and jointly manages 21 more with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). That’s a steep rise from just 63 interagency roles reported in EDCOM 2’s Year One Report . This expansion was m...

Can you spell “opportunity”? Because that’s exactly what the National Online Spelling Battle 2026 offers to students across the Philippines—a chance to shine beyond the classroom. It’s not just about letters and syllables; it’s about language, confidence, and connection in a digital age. What Is the National Online Spelling Battle 2026? The National Online Spelling Battle 2026 (NOSB) is an inclusive, nationwide spelling competition organized by the Lyceum De Abuid Inc. It’s set to take place on January 17, 2026 , through Zoom and the Gascloud Learning Management System —a setup that makes participation possible for learners from any corner of the country. Unlike traditional spelling bees that require travel and expenses, NOSB brings the competition right to students’ screens. Whether you’re in a public or private school, in Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao, the battle is just a click away. And what makes it special? It’s guided by the Department of Education (DepEd) through Adviso...