Reigniting the Flame of Learning: DepEd Launches Four Bold Summer Programs to Combat Education Crisis

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a nation where education is the lifeblood of hope, the Department of Education (DepEd) is answering the call of urgency with a resounding battle cry: no child left behind. As the long shadows of learning loss—amplified by years of pandemic disruptions—continue to haunt Filipino classrooms, DepEd is fighting back with an unprecedented surge of summer learning initiatives that aim not just to catch up, but to reclaim the future.

Under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., DepEd is rolling out four transformative programs this May: the Bawat Bata Makababasa Program (BBMP), the Literacy Remediation Program (LRP), the Summer Academic Remedial Program, and the Learning Camp (LC). These are not just mere summer classes—they are a lifeline for struggling learners, a call to arms for educators, and a nationwide movement to rebuild the foundations of learning.

“More than a summer initiative, these programs are part of a bigger movement to rebuild the foundations of learning, one reader at a time,” declared Education Secretary Sonny Angara, emphasizing a vision rooted in compassion, commitment, and collective action.

A New Dawn for Young Readers: Bawat Bata Makababasa Program (BBMP)

In Region 9, a silent revolution is set to begin. The BBMP targets an estimated 75,000 Grade 1 to 3 learners identified as struggling readers. For them, this program is more than a tutorial—it’s a second chance at literacy, confidence, and dignity.

From May 8 to June 6, 2025, a legion of 7,500 trained tutors and volunteer educators—many of them aspiring teachers—will journey into the heart of classrooms, bringing with them not just lessons but lifelines. These mentors will form intimate learning pods, offering daily reading tutorials enriched with games, stories, and sensory activities designed to spark joy in reading.

The program also recognizes that education is a shared responsibility. Parents will be empowered with home-based literacy strategies, and learners will receive free snacks and health support, including vision screening—because how can a child learn to read if they can’t even see the words?

National Healing Through Literacy: Literacy Remediation Program (LRP)

While BBMP takes root in Region 9, the rest of the country will witness the implementation of the Literacy Remediation Program—an intensive intervention crafted for 59,627 Grade 3 students whose struggles in English were revealed by the End-of-School-Year Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment.

This isn't just a reading program; it's a nationwide literacy recovery mission. From May 13 to June 6, 14,023 trained teachers will conduct two-hour daily sessions designed to break barriers and rekindle comprehension. Training cascades begin as early as April 27, ensuring readiness from national trainers down to classroom facilitators.

And because heroes deserve honor, participating teachers will be rewarded with service credits and daily meal allowances—a small token of gratitude for the immense service they render to the nation.

A Second Chance for Struggling Learners: Summer Academic Remedial Program

For students from Grades 4 to 12, the Summer Academic Remedial Program offers redemption. It is a bridge to opportunity for those who failed subjects, those who fell behind, and those who simply need one more push to move forward.

Running from May 13 to June 6, this program opens its doors to both public and private schools, even extending its reach to Philippine schools overseas. Whether it’s a senior high school student retaking a prerequisite or a learner with disabilities requiring tailored instruction, the program ensures no one is left behind.

Highly proficient educators, especially master teachers, will lead these sessions, guided by a framework that rewards dedication and excellence. This is education that meets learners where they are and walks with them toward where they need to be.

Learning Camps: Nurturing Minds in Joyful Spaces

Not all learning happens in rows of desks and strict assessments. In 10 pilot schools across MATATAG regions—including Regions I, II, VII, XII, NCR, CAR, and CARAGA—DepEd is launching the 2025 Learning Camp, a visionary initiative that marries fun with functionality.

With a sharp focus on Reading, English, and Mathematics, these camps are customized to suit varying levels of learner proficiency:

Intervention Camps limit groups to five learners per teacher or volunteer, ensuring high-touch, personalized instruction.

Consolidation and Enhancement Camps accommodate up to 25 learners, maintaining intimacy while fostering collaboration.

The aim? To ignite a love for learning in nurturing environments where learner well-being, enjoyment, and confidence are the cornerstones.

A Call to the Nation: It Takes a Village

This bold summer surge isn't just a government initiative—it is a national movement. DepEd is calling on communities, local government units, private sector partners, universities, and civic-minded citizens to join the cause.

“Every Filipino child deserves the chance to read, to understand, and to succeed—and it will take all of us working together to make that happen,” Secretary Angara implored.

Now is the time for the nation to rise—not just for the learners of today, but for the future they will inherit. Education is not just a department’s job; it is a people’s responsibility.

Let us rally behind this movement, ensuring that this summer, classrooms across the Philippines become sanctuaries of hope, healing, and heroic transformation.

Because when we teach a child to read, we teach a nation to dream.

A Golden Rediscovery: Sheraton Manila Bay Unveils the Mango Discovery Moment—A Captivating Celebration of Flavor, Art, and Heritage

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

 

A golden glow radiates from Sheraton Manila Bay as it launches one of its most exquisite and emotionally resonant experiences yet—the Mango Discovery Moment, an inspired tribute to the Philippines’ beloved national fruit. In a country where mangoes are not just produce but cultural icons, this limited-time culinary event dares to reimagine nostalgia, memory, and taste in a four-course celebration priced at just Php 1,999 nett per person.

Behind the curtains of &More by Sheraton, guests are invited to surrender to a journey both familiar and fantastically new—a rediscovery of the mango in all its golden glory. At the heart of this gastronomic tribute is Manila Bay Kitchen, where the hotel’s masterful chefs transform this tropical gem into savory creations, artful mains, and indulgent desserts that pay homage to the mango's sweetness, tang, and versatility. It’s not just dinner—it’s an experience, woven with emotion, memory, and craftsmanship.

But Sheraton’s celebration doesn’t stop at the table. The Mango Discovery Moment is made even more evocative through a visually arresting art exhibit by Mark Lingat Art Studio. Each painting explodes with color and meaning, casting the mango not just as fruit, but as muse—a symbol of Filipino identity rendered on canvas with bold strokes and soul. The artworks provide a compelling backdrop to the evening’s unfolding, enriching the atmosphere with passion and perspective.

“This is more than just a seasonal offering, It’s a heartfelt story we’re telling—one where every plate, every brushstroke, and every guest plays a role. We’re incredibly grateful to our media partners who continue to believe in what we do and help us bring these moments to life. We look forward to creating even more memories together.”

Indeed, the Mango Discovery Moment is more than an event—it is a reconnection to roots, a celebration of Filipino excellence, and a vivid reminder that some of the richest stories are those born from local soil.

Book your table now and take part in this delicious rediscovery. Whether you come for the flavors, the art, or the ambiance, one thing is certain—you'll leave with your heart (and palate) full.

For bookings and inquiries, visit www.sheratonmanilabay.com, reach out via Facebook and Instagram @sheratonmanilabay, call (02) 5318 0788, or email reservations.manilabay@sheraton.com.

Let this be your season of rediscovery. Let mango lead the way.

BEWARE: Party-list System or Political Playground? A Closer Look at the 2025 Party-list Preferences

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The 2025 elections are fast approaching, and as always, the party-list race is heating up. Based on the latest OCTA Research survey conducted from March 18 to 24, 2025, the top contenders in the party-list system have been revealed. Topping the list are:

ACT-CIS – 8.70% (3 seats)

Tingog – 5.77% (3 seats)

4Ps – 5.40% (3 seats)

Ako Bicol – 4.20% (3 seats)

Senior Citizen – 3.70% (2 seats)

GP (Galing sa Puso) – 3.14% (2 seats)

Duterte Youth – 2.87% (2 seats)

TUPAD – 2.36% (2 seats)

Malasakit@Bayanihan – 2.33% (2 seats)

Ang Probinsyano – 2.12% (2 seats)

FPJ Panday Bayanihan – 2.03% (2 seats)

On the surface, these numbers reflect the people's choice — but are they really?

Party-lists: For the Marginalized or for the Mighty?

The 1987 Constitution envisioned the party-list system as a means to give a voice to marginalized sectors of society — the fisherfolk, the farmers, the indigenous peoples, the urban poor. But somewhere along the way, the spirit of this noble intention has been hijacked.

Let’s break down the backgrounds and personalities behind each of the Top 11 Party-lists featured in the recent 2025 OCTA survey, and take a closer look at whether they genuinely represent the marginalized sectors, or if they are extensions of political dynasties, business interests, or power plays:

1. ACT-CIS (8.70%) – 3 Seats

Background: Associated with the Tulfo family, specifically Erwin and Raffy Tulfo. Also backed by Rep. Eric Yap, a former ally of then-President Duterte.

ACT-CIS, consistently leading in surveys and actual elections, is backed by the powerful Tulfo brothers, media personalities-turned-political juggernauts. Alongside them is Jocelyn Tulfo, wife of Raffy Tulfo and sister-in-law of Erwin. Another known affiliate is Congressman Eric Yap, tied to another prominent political name. Is this a representation of the underprivileged — or a consolidation of media influence and political clout?

Controversy: Known for riding on their massive media presence and connections to national figures.

Question: Are they true champions of the marginalized, or simply using media clout to stay in power?

2. TINGOG (5.77%) – 3 Seats

Background: Strongly affiliated with the Romualdez family, particularly House Speaker Martin Romualdez, a cousin of President Bongbong Marcos.

Even Tingog, rising fast in the rankings, is closely linked to the Romualdez family, relatives of President Bongbong Marcos and a long-standing political powerhouse in Leyte.

Controversy: Critics argue it serves as a political vehicle for the family rather than Eastern Visayas’ underrepresented.

Question: Tingog means "voice" — but whose voice are they really amplifying?

3. 4PS (5.40%) – 3 Seats

Background: Named after the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), it is reportedly supported by the Abalos dynasty from Mandaluyong.

4Ps, supposedly named after the government's Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program for the poor, is associated with the Abalos dynasty — a family already wielding considerable power in national and local politics. If you're wondering how a social welfare initiative was turned into a political campaign, you're not alone.

Controversy: Accused of using the 4Ps name to gain votes by misleading poor families into thinking it is part of the government aid program.

Question: Are they helping the poor or exploiting their dependency?

4. AKO BICOL (4.20%) – 3 Seats

Background: Tied to powerful business groups in the Bicol Region and the Co family.

Controversy: Critics say it’s a regional party-list serving elite interests under the guise of regional advocacy.

Question: Is it truly grassroots Bicolano representation or just regional branding for the rich?

5. SENIOR CITIZEN (3.70%) – 2 Seats

Background: Purports to represent elderly citizens. Had representation issues in the past and internal disputes.

Controversy: Historically, this party-list was disqualified and reinstated due to internal wrangling and alleged manipulation of senior citizens' support.

Question: Are they actively protecting seniors' welfare or merely capitalizing on a vulnerable demographic?

6. GP (GALING SA PUSO) (3.14%) – 2 Seats

Background: Linked to former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and other local political figures.

Controversy: Critics say its messaging is vague and rooted in emotional branding more than tangible sectoral advocacy.

Question: Is this from the heart — or just a soft slogan masking old politics?

7. DUTERTE YOUTH (2.87%) – 2 Seats

Background: Headed by Ronald Cardema, staunch Duterte supporter, and known for extreme pro-government stances.

Duterte Youth is another eyebrow-raiser. Its name alone capitalizes on the legacy of the former President Rodrigo Duterte, and its leader, Ronald Cardema, has been marred by controversy — from age eligibility issues to accusations of Red-tagging.

Controversy: Disqualified in 2019 due to Cardema's age and accusations of Red-tagging, militarism, and fascism.

Question: Does it serve the youth or echo authoritarian ideologies?

8. TUPAD (2.36%) – 2 Seats

Background: Its name resembles the government’s emergency employment program (Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers), often mistaken as a government initiative.

Controversy: Potentially misleading to voters who associate it with DOLE’s TUPAD.

Question: Is it a party-list or a ploy to confuse?

9. MALASAKIT@BAYANIHAN (2.33%) – 2 Seats

Background: Connected with the Malasakit Centers launched during Senator Bong Go’s term. Likely affiliated with Duterte-allied politicians.

Controversy: "Malasakit" branding has been criticized as a tool for perpetuating patronage politics.

Question: Is it institutionalized charity, or institutionalized campaigning?

10. ANG PROBINSYANO (2.12%) – 2 Seats

Background: Tied to political figures with a strong media angle, including possible links to the FPJ legacy and provincial actors.

Controversy: Questions persist about how much they really advocate for provincial development vs. using the brand's emotional appeal.

Question: A defender of the provinces or just another actor in the political drama?

11. FPJ PANDAY BAYANIHAN (2.03%) – 2 Seats

Background: Banking on the late Fernando Poe Jr.'s legacy. Often associated with supporters or relatives of FPJ.

Controversy: Riding the nostalgia of a beloved national figure, but lacking in clear marginalized representation.

Question: Is this cultural hero worship turned into political maneuvering?

Final Thoughts

What do these facts tell us?

Instead of representing the laborer, the fisherfolk, the teacher, the indigenous, or the urban poor, many of today’s top party-lists appear to be:

Fronts for traditional political dynasties

Branding plays using government programs or celebrity names

Vehicles for well-funded campaigns and national influence

The party-list system was never meant to be a playground for powerful families and personalities. It was meant to level the playing field. But now, it’s largely become another avenue for political recycling and dynasty expansion.

Let us not forget: Representation is not a right reserved for the rich and famous. It is a sacred duty for those who truly know the struggles of the marginalized.

Vote not for the loudest voice or the flashiest brand — but for the truest cause.

Only then can we reclaim democracy’s promise.

A System Under Siege

When billionaires, political dynasties, and celebrity-backed candidates dominate the party-list race, what chance does a genuine marginalized group have? Indigenous peoples’ groups, farmers’ alliances, labor unions, and transport cooperatives often lack the money, machinery, and media mileage to compete.

And yet the Constitution never intended for this system to be a backdoor for traditional politicians. Sadly, the party-list system has now become a fallback for dynasties that cannot run under district seats — a “Plan B” for those desperate to hold power.

Wake Up, Pilipinas!

This is a clarion call to all voters: BEWARE! Don’t be dazzled by familiar names, catchy slogans, or empty promises. Ask the hard questions: Who are they really representing? What laws have they authored that uplift the truly marginalized? Are they grassroots in essence, or simply grassroots in disguise?

The 2025 party-list preference survey is not just a list — it is a reflection of how distorted our democracy has become.

We need to fight to bring back the true spirit of the party-list system: representation for the underrepresented, a voice for the voiceless, power for the powerless.

As the founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, I urge the electorate: Dig deeper. Question boldly. Vote wisely. Because in the end, the marginalized don’t need more opportunists — they need champions.

Let’s not allow this system to be their playground any longer.

This exposé is a civic call from the Wazzup Pilipinas founder, Ross Flores Del Rosario. Follow us for more fearless, factual, and fair content.