by Heidy M. Agudong and Lorelyn Ramos

Batac City, Ilocos Norte-Top officials from the Department of Education (DepEd), including regional directors, assistant secretaries, and undersecretaries, gathered at Treasure Trove Resort in Barangay Magnuang, Batac City for the National Pre-Management Committee (Pre-MANCOM) Meeting, May 30.

The session, presided over by Usec. Fatima Lipp D. Panontongan, was held to tackle important updates and issues in preparation for the upcoming school year, which opens on June 16, 2025. Among the agenda items discussed were Oplan Balik Eskwela, Brigada Eskwela, Learner Health Assessment, SBFP payments and procurement, budget compliance, and the submission of regional flags for the DepEd Central Office.

In an interview, Director Jake Rivera of the Public Affairs Service stressed that the goal of the Pre-MANCOM is to ensure that the opening of classes goes as smoothly as possible. He also shared that a more flexible age cut-off for kindergarten will be implemented this year to welcome more young learners into the system.

Director Rivera also introduced new learning programs set to roll out this school year, particularly the ARAL Program, signed into law in October 2024, which will be implemented this School Year 2025–2026. It offers free tutorials in reading, math, and science for Grades 1–10 and foundational skills for kindergarten learners. The program will involve teachers, para-teachers, and education students.

When asked about the recent developments in DepEd leadership, Director Rivera addressed the courtesy resignation submitted by Senator Edgardo Angara, noting that all functions of the Department continue as usual. “Hangga’t hindi pormal na tinatanggap ng ating Pangulo ang pagbibitiw, mananatiling nasa posisyon ang ating mahal na Sec. Angara at magpapatuloy sa kanyang tungkulin, ” he said.

Coinciding with Palarong Pambansa 2025, the event served as both a planning session and a celebration of youth and education. Director Rivera also expressed his appreciation for the warm reception given by the host province. “The hospitality of the Ilocanos is truly heartwarming,” he shared. “It makes this gathering even more meaningful.”

The meeting highlighted the Department’s readiness, responsiveness, and renewed focus on learner-centered programs ahead of another school year.