Volume 8, Issue No.1
September 2024-February 2025
The Official Learner Publication of Balaoan Central School, Balaoan District, La Union Schools Division
The Youngsters conducted a survey to the whole community of Balaoan Central School regarding their opinion on the proposed NEDAs P64 budget for three meals and here is the result.
NEDA’s P64 budget meal receives backlash by Angelle Miyumi O. Gonzales he National Economic and Development Authority’s 64 pesos budget for food per person received criticism from parents and teachers of Balaoan Central School.This amounts to 22 pesos per meal in a day.
In an interview with Rosenalyn S. Julaton, the SPTA president, she stressed that the proposed budget for a three-meal per person was unrealistic.
“Sa taas ng bilihin ngayon, hindi yata kakasya ang 64 pesos para sa isang araw” she said.
During a Senate hearing for the 2025 budget, NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said a monthly food threshold for a family of five is 9,581 pesos, which is equivalent to P64 per person.
“Parang hindi naman alam ng ating secretary ang sitwasyon sa ibaba, lalong lalo na sa mahihirap, kung kakayanin ba ng 64 pesos na budget para sa pagkain sa isang araw”, said Leonora C. Ariola, grade 1 teacher.
She also added that instead of proposing a budget for every meal why not propose measures to combat inflation in the market.
The inflation rate has drastically increased
3% AGREE 97% DISAGREE continue on page 03
42%
As of March 2024, around 42% or about 11.1 million Filipino families consider themselves poor in the Philippines.
LEARNING CONTINUES AT HOME.
arents, teachers, and learners of Balaoan Central School approved the implementation of the Dynamic Learning Program (DLP).
The DLP aims to support continuity in education in schools affected by typhoons and calamities.
“Sobrang naapektuhan ang pagaaral ng aming mga anak dahil sa sunod-sunod na bagyo, kaya naman maganda ito upang tuloytuloy parin ang kanilang pag-aaral”, said Ella Orine, grade 5 parent.
Under the program, affected
ata from the recent Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (Phil-IRI) pre-test of Balaoan Central School showed that 27% or 106 grades 4-6 learners have poor reading comprehension skills.
That’s why the project RIM or Reading Intervention Matters was introduced to help learners improve their reading skills.
Learners will be given different sets of reading materials which will be accessed in their reading hubs.
These includes Reading Enhancement Activity Sheets (REAS), sight words, story books, and others.
“Every 1:001:30 in the afternoon, a
simultaneous reading activity will be conducted in their reading hubs to ignite the passion of reading and to elevate the reading skills”, said Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono in an interview.
She also stressed that the cooperation of parents will play a vital role for the success of the program.
“Kailangan namin ang tulong ng bawat magulang upang mas mapaigting ang ating kampanya upang lahat ay makapagbasa” she added.
Mrs. Teresita O. Mique, reading coordinator, admits that it requires more time to address the needs of the learners, and it is still a long process to eradicate non-readers in the school.#
Sweet Adrianne C. Carilla
schools will use learning activity sheets that are designed to be simple, targeted, and adaptable which can be used in temporary learning spaces.
Six typhoons struck Northern Luzon including the Province of La Union in just four weeks. They were Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, Super Typhoon Leon, Typhoon Marce, Typhoon Nika, Typhoon Ofel, and Super Typhoon Pepito.
The implementation of the program begins in November in affected schools including Region 1.
“We’re bringing
resilience to the heart of learning so that no student’s education has to pause when challenges arise,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said on its launching.
The program was developed by Dr. Christopher Bernido and Dr. Ma. Victoria CarpioBernido, founders of the Central Visayan Institute Foundation (CVIF) in Jagna, Bohol.
“Learning must continue amidst calamities, this must not be hindered by any challenges”, said Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, school principal.#
The newly constructed childminding and lactation room of Balaoan Central School improved the WASH in Schools (WINS) program. The proceeds coming from the Buwan ng Wika popularity contest amounting to P91,000 were used to build the facility. This will be beneficial for employees, parents, visitors, and
clients who need a private space to pump milk or nurse their baby.
The facility is a joint initiative of Balaoan Central School and the School Parent Teacher Association.
“Through this breastfeeding and childminding room, we can now expand the service for the needs of lactating mothers”, said Rosenalyn S. Julaton, SPTA president.
The room
includes comfortable chairs and tables and guidelines for first time breastfeeding moms.
Breastfeeding is important for young children as it plays a vital role in their growth.
“Mas mapapaigting pa natin ang ating kampanya na palaganapin ang kahalagahan ng pagpapasuso sa mga bata”, Julaton added.#
Balaoan Central School continue to recognize the value of partnership among its stakeholders through signing of memorandum of agreements.
Dr. Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, the school
principal, visited seven catchment barangays to ink and seal an agreement between the punong barangays.
These includes Brgy. Antonino, Dr. Camilo Osias, Cabua-an, Pagbennecan, Nagsabaran Norte, Nalasin, and
from November’s 2.5 percent to 2.9 percent in December.
Some parents also showed their dismay on the said issue.
“Absolutely not! “This statement by NEDA is not just out of touch—it’s insulting’, said Eleanor Olinarez, parent.
Some also expressed their concerns about the health issues it may posed of settling for unhealthy foods just to budget the said amount.
“Kung pagkakasyahin ang 64 pesos for three meals, eventually it will lead to cause of certain diseases”, remarked Mr. Christopher O. Bragas, district nurse.
As per DTIs suggested retail price, a certain brand of instant noodles at 55 grams is worth P7.75, while
a can sardine goes for around P15 to 20.
“As of now, considering the high inflation rate we are experiencing, mas pipiliin na lang ni consumer na bumili ng sardinas at noodles which in the long run, when consumed consistently, can cause great health risk such as heart disease”, Bragas added.
Meanwhile, Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, the school principal, encouraged parents to strengthen the gulayan sa paaralan project to augment the needs of the school community.
“Mas lalo pa nating palakasin ang ating vegetable production para naman kahit sa konting paraan ay mabawasan ang ating mga gastusin sa pambili ng pagkain”, said Ordono in an interview.#
Angelle Miyumi D. Gonzales
Calungbuyan.
“We need the help of our stakeholders. The safety and welfare of our learners doesn’t only lie in the hands of parents and teachers, but it is strengthened with the help of our stakeholders” Ordono articulated in an
interview. The provision of the memorandum includes ensuring the cleanliness of the school surrounding, strengthening safety and security of learners and school facilities, and intensification of
the gulayan sa paaralan program.
Dr. Ordono who took office last February continues to fulfill her vow to bring excellence and change lives through the help of teachers and stakeholders.#
The Project SWEET or Students Working to Eliminate Environmental Trash of the Supreme Elementary Learner Government (SELG) helped the school in eliminating waste.
Officers of the SELG together with YES-O and BKD officers conducted a daily 5-minute waste-picking activity after recess to ensure that wastes are collected in the school grounds and premises.
Waste collected was segregated and collected by LGU Balaoan and bottles were stored in the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).
“This initiative of the SELG helped the school to maintain cleanliness especially after recess wherein
some learners don’t dispose their wastes properly”, said Donna Fe N. Estrada, Administrative Officer II, and the school canteen manager. Meanwhile, Dr. Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, school principal, lauded the efforts of the organization.
“I am happy that learners initiated this activity to ensure cleanliness and orderliness of the school. I hope other learners not just only the officers will volunteer for this cause” Ordono articulated. The program encouraged leadership, discipline, and environmental stewardship among the officers, fostering a culture of cleanliness and responsibility.#
Officers
ROSALES, Pangasinan - The Professional Regulations Commission recognized the Schools Division Office of La Union as Continuing Professional Development (CPD) provider.
The Certificate of Accreditation numbered PTR-2024-689 was awarded on November
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) of the Municipality of Balaoan and Balaoan Central School entered into a memorandum of agreement on August 12, 2024, to boost the reading program of the school.
Fire Inspector Nelson N. Sibayan, Acting Municipal Fire Marshall and Dr. Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono spearheaded the activity. The memorandum will strengthen the ties between the two partners
Sweet Adrianne
C. Carilla
with regards to fire prevention and adopting Grade 1 class to boost their reading program.
BFP personnel will serve as reading ambassadors to grade 1 learners.
“This agreement will not serve as an avenue for learners to be educated with fire prevention tips but also a way to help them improve their reading skills”, said Sibayan in an interview.
BFP personnel were graduates of teacher education programs but choose to stay and serve the fire department.#
07, 2024, by Dr. John Adrian J. Malagotnot, OIC Chief, Regulation Division at the PRC Reg’l Office I. Dr. Emiliana M. Boac, SGOD-Chief, Dr. Lodivina Bayani, HRDDSEPS, and Ms. Pauline Rimando, HRDD-EPS II, received the award. The award is a testament to SDO-LU in providing affordable services to the teaching and nonteaching personnel of the division.
Meanwhile, this receives commendation from the teachers of
Balaoan Central School.
“Hindi na kami gagastos ng malaki para lang maka-attend ng mga seminars to earn CPD units just to renew our license”, said Joy N. Cariaga, grade 5 teacher.
The accreditation is in accordance with the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 10912, otherwise known as the CPD Act of 2016 set forth by the Professional Regulation Commission in Resolution No. 1032, Series of 2017.#
The Department of Interior and Local Government – Regional Office I, through the endorsement of the local government unit of Balaoan installed Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) system in the school premises.
Amounting to 1 million pesos, 36 cameras were installed in the different parts of the school.
“This will be beneficial for us to ensure the safety and security of our learners and also our facilities”, said Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, school principal.
The inauguration and turn-over ceremony were officially held on November 13, 2024. It was attended by Atty. Aleli U. Concepcion, municipal mayor, Jonathan Paul M. Leusem, Jr., CESO III, DILG Regional Director,
PD Reggie R. Colisao, CESO V, and MLGOO Marife M. Duculan. In her speech, Concepcion stressed the continued support of the local government unit of Balaoan in safeguarding the welfare of Balaonaians especiall school children. The equipment was funded by the 2023 Seal of Good Local Governance Incentive Fund (SGLGIF) which highlights the municipality’s commitment to ensuring peace, order, and enhanced educational security.#
Sweet Adrianne C. Carilla
Handwashing and toothbrushing is still a top priority in Balaoan Central School’s WASH in Schools Program (WINS).
Learners are encouraged to wash their hands four times a day, before and after recess, and before and after lunch.
Meanwhile, toothbrushing also a habitual practice for learners as they have it after recess and after lunch.
“These activities will prove that in BCS we value the importance of handwashing and toothbrushing as primary weapon to combat diseases”, said Maridel A. Villa, school WINS coordinator.
06 learners in grades 4-6 are under the frustration level based on the recent Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (PhilIRI) pre-test result.
This is an 18% increase from last year’s 90 learners in the posttest result.
“The increase is not alarming because we anticipated it since some learners came from other schools. Nonetheless, the school will do its best to cater to the needs of these learners”, said Teresita O. Mique, school reading coordinator.
The school has also introduced different mechanisms to improve
their reading skills.
For this school year, project RIM (Reading Intervention Matters), project BASA (Building the connections to Achieve reading literacy among Stakeholders support in the Attainment of quality education), and different grade level reading programs were among the activities to enhance reading level of learners.
“Our commitment in improving the reading level of learners is still a top priority. It is included in the Schools Improvement Plan”, articulated by Dr. Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, school principal, in an interview.#
Officers of the Supreme Elementary Learner Government, Barkada Kontra Droga, Youth for Environment in
Schools, SPTA, and SGC took charged in ensuring the continued practice of these activities.
Last September 11, validators composed
by Rodeone C. Almoite, Joylisa Cabatu, and Judy Ann Casuga visited the school and granted a three-star school rating of the WINS program.
This means that the school facilities and systems were upgraded and meet the national standards.
“We are very happy for this achievement, and we continue to improve more for the second and final evaluation”, said Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, school principal.#
Atty. Aleli U. Concepcion, municipal mayor of Balaoan, La Union lead the kickoff ceremony of Bakuna Eskwela, a schoolbased immunization program, on October 10, 2024, at the school pavilion.
Representatives from the Department of Health and the Provincial Government of La Union also attended the activity.
In her speech, Concepcion stressed the importance of
immunization especially to young school children as it addresses rising cases of measles, rubella, diptheria, and HPV diseases.
Grade 1 and
Grade 4 learners receive free dose of vaccines.
“Titiisin ko yung sakit para maging protektado ako”, said Marzielle Reyes, a grade 4 learner.
Meanwhile, parents also lauded this activity for it will safeguard their children in acquiring such diseases.
“Masaya kami kase libre eh ang mahal kapag sa mga private hospitals ito kukunin. Maiiwas na yung mga anak namin na magkaroon ng sakit”, said Aida Urbano, parent.
The Bakuna Eskwela initiative by the Department of Health and the Department of Education aims to immunize millions of Grades 1, 4, and 7 public school learners nationwide.#
The MATATAG curriculum which was piloted to kindergarten, grades 1, 4, and 7 learners received praises and criticisms from teachers.
MATATAG which was launched by Vice President and former Education Secretary Zara Z. Duterte-Carpio is the new face of the Philippine educational system.
With regards to the content of the curriculum, teachers commended the efforts of the department by providing ready-made lesson exemplars and activities for learners.
“Maganda kase bawas trabaho sa part namin as teachers ung paggawa ng lesson plans, kumbaga ipriprint na lang tapos ituturo na” said Alice B. Ledda, grade 1
teacher.
Mother Tongue as a subject was also removed which gained praises.
“Mas madali na para sa bata na maintindihan ung mga lessons kase automatic nang nakatranslate sa Filipino at English” Ledda added.
Meanwhile, grade 4 teachers expressed also their concern on the
arents united for a cause to improve reading in the implementation of Project BASA. Building the connections to Achieve reading literacy among Stakeholders support in the Attainment of quality education
(BASA) is a joint project of the Federated Parent Teachers Association and Balaoan District aimed to enhance learners’ reading skills through the participation of parents.
Meanwhile, teachers commended the efforts of parents in supporting the school’s reading program.
curriculum especially the time allotment of each subject.
“Nakukulangan kami sa 45 minutes na allotted time sa dami ng activities na required for each competency” remarked Aurora G. Marquez.
Recently, the Department of Education outlined DepEd Order No. 012 s. 2024 allowing schools to adopt class
schedules based on their specific needs and capacities.
“Bibigyan naming yung flexibility ‘yung kada paaralan at saka ‘yung kada principal na i-set ‘yung policy sa kanyang eskwelahan” articulated Sen. Edgardo Angara, DepEd secretary, during a radio interview.#
DPARENTS INVOLVEMENT.
Launched last March 5, 2024, officers of the School Parent Teacher Association headed by Mrs. Rosenalyn S. Julaton together with parents started the implementation this school year 2024-2025. They conducted reading sessions in the reading hubs of each grade level during their vacant hours and during lunch break.
“Masaya ako na all out ang suporta ng ating mga parents in this initiative. Anytime soon, we can see the improvement of our learners”, remarked Julaton.
“Minsan kailangan natin ng tulong ng magulang, follow-up kumbaga. Kase kapag habitual ang pagbabasa, mas nahahasa ang kakayanan ng ating mga bata”, said Marissa M. Flores, grade 2 teacher.
In 2022 PISA result, the Philippines ranked 76th out of 81 countries in reading comprehension, still in bottom 10.
“I hope this program will greatly help our learners in improving their reading skills, so in the long run, we can make this ranking higher”, said Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, school principal.#
ifferent learners’ organizations spearheaded the gumamela planting activity in the school grounds on August 12, 2024.
The Supreme Elementary Learners Government (SELG), Youth for Environment in Schools (YES-O), and Barkada Kontra Droga (BKD) officers lead in planting gumamelas. This was in pursuant to Municipal Memorandum No. 2024-08-172 or the Simultaneous Gumamela Planting in the municipality of Balaoan and as part of the celebration of the Linggo ng Kabataan.
Gumamela or hibiscus is the municipal flower of Balaoan as per
Resolution No. 24 s. 2013 of the former mayor Atty. Al-Fred O. Concepcion. “Bukod sa nagpapaganda ng ating paligid, nagiging makabuluhan din ang gumamela upang maalala ang naging kontribusyon ng ating dating alkalde”, said Edel Ralph O. Olinarez, SELG president. In total, the school planted 50 gumamela seedlings and saplings.#
Data from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) revealed that a P64/ day food budget is enough for an ordinary Filipino citizen and not considered “food poor”. The agency is out of touch with reality.
NEDA chief Antonio Balisacan in a statement said that 64 pesos per day is not reflected to be food poor and is enough for three meals amounting to roughly P21.30 per meal and is considered to meet basic nutritional needs. This is insulting. No one agrees that P64 is all it takes to be not food-poor.
Why not the chief and other officials try to live with the proposed amount before concluding and making a statement that it is not foodpoor?
The Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) articulated that Balisacan, and other economic managers should first experience for themselves how to live on a daily food budget of P64 a day before drawing conclusions on how ordinary Filipinos survive.
An Ateneo study uncovered that a family needs a budget of P693.30 just to buy the main ingredients
for dishes required for the Pinggang Pinoy, a food guide for balanced meals developed by the government. In the same vein, a poll was conducted in Balaoan Central School wherein an ordinary family of four members need P550 per day just to buy ingredients needed for the day and if we speak about the geographical location of the community wherein some ingredients are accessible in some gardens and within reach, the amount is not enough.
“No one agrees that P64 is all it takes to be not food-poor”
Considering the situation of learners of BCS wherein half of the community belong to impoverished families, some cannot afford to have that amount. A mere P64 can buy instant noodles, can of sardines, and a regular size of frozen food. Does everyone settle for instant food per
day?
So here comes nutrition deprivation.
A recent UNICEF report reveals that 18% of Filipino children below five years old are “severely foodpoor”. This figure translates to 2 million Filipino children who get to access only unhealthy food, sugary drinks, rice, and vegetable soup. The organization also recommends that children should have access to at least five of eight food groups: breast milk; grains and roots; nuts and seeds; dairy products; flesh foods (meat, fish, and poultry); eggs; Vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables; and other vegetables.
How can an ordinary BCS learner afford to have the required standard if his/ her family is earning with a minimum wage? This situation is clearly serious, especially if one considers the effect of malnutrition on their ability to learn and pursue better educational opportunities later in life.
Living with P64 is poor. It is a resounding statement that for us many Filipinos, it is not enough.#
Editorial Staff SY 2024-2025
Dan Ziyanne F. Parungo Editor-In-Chief
Denish Roa O. Bagnas Associate Editor
Edel Ralp D. Olinarez Managing Editor
Sweet Adrianne C. Carilla News Editor
Elisse M. Zabala Feature Editor
Reej Raizel D. Espina Science and Technology Editor
Marc Jholo M. Dionesio Sports Editor
Yohann A. Nolasco Photojournalist
Benedict Edward S. Julaton Cartoonist
Angelle Miyumi D. Gonzales
Darius Luiz C. Raquedan
Kate Gabrielyn C. Gallego
Zhiane O. Oyando
Amber Khaye O. Lucero
Alexander Rupert G. Directo
Jillian Kyle D. Chan Writers Pool
Alvin O. Ordinario
Teresita O. Mique School Paper Advisers
Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, EdD Consultant
| Dan Ziyanne F. Parungo Editor-In-Chief
TThe
future of the educational system of the Philippines is in the right direction
he Department of Education (DepEd) plans to resolve the country’s classroom backlog through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), with an initial target of constructing 15,000 classrooms by 2027. This calls for a better education. The educational system of the Philippines, particularly on the classroom-learner ratio is facing a great challenge. By record, the Department has 165,000 classroom shortages all over the country. More importantly, these backlogs also include schools struggling with congested classrooms. Based on recent
data, 30 percent of kindergarten to Grade 6 classrooms nationwide are congested, with the percentage much higher in junior and senior high schools at 41 percent and 50 percent, respectively.
In Balaoan Central School alone, according to the 2024 National Schools Building Inventory System (NSBI) database, four instructional rooms were classified for condemnation. This means that the rooms are not conducive for learning and need immediate replacement. This plan of Education Secretary Sonny Angara will be a great help and the most sustainable way to
address the issue.
Learning in a conducive classroom environment is beneficial to learners. Research showed that it will increase academic achievement, increase engagement in learning, and contribute to a positive outlook in life.
With this partnership, classrooms to be built were more spacious and conforming with the global standards. Classrooms with ample space are more conducive to providing an appropriate learning environment for learners and associated with greater increase in engagement and learning.
Research also revealed that classroom space is relevant to the acquisition of 21st century skills wherein learners can work on teams, problem solving, and communicate effectively. The government alone cannot meet the needs of its constituents. We need the assistance of the private sector. Just like in School Based Management (SBM), partners play a vital role in the educational process. With this, the future of the educational system of the Philippines is in the right direction.#
We use our talent to deliver good news and spread love for fairness, authenticity, and integrity
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In today’s world where technology plays a vital role in the improvement of life, the media has been also making a mark to improve the quality of campus journalism in advocating diversity, equality, and integrity for an inclusive power of the press.
How can the media and the school do their part?
As a campus journalist, our role isn’t only confined to the issues concerning our school but to being community watchdogs.
Considered as generation Alpha and born entirely in the 21st
century and counted as digital natives wherein social media is our main tool in information dissemination, we must be the primary advocate for an inclusive journalism.
First, we advocate for a diverse freedom of expression. Everyone must be heard and must have the ability to share her opinions. With this, we are promoting a community where everyone’s battle cry will be heard and given appropriate action.
We are for equality. From gender equality and women
empowerment to LGBTQ rights and gender-based violence, the country experiences a load of challenges and advancements in the scope of gender.
Our role is to amplify voices that tackle gender issues. It is important to delve deeper understanding of these because we can gain valuable insights into the challenges faced by women in the Philippines and identify potential solutions to further advance gender equality in the country.
We value integrity.
Our role is to provide and share
correct and truthful information concerning our schools and even the wider aspect – our community. We use our talent to communicate and deliver good news, positive attitude and spread the love for fairness, authenticity, and integrity through the power of social media.
As purveyors of truth and catalyst of change, let us use what God has given to us including what the world has been offering us to promote an inclusive, diverse, and equal world for a better place to live in.#
Amber Khaye O. Lucero Correspondent
The country’s highest budget allocation as stated by the Constitution received a budget cut for fiscal year 2025. According to the Presidential Communications Office, the approved DepEd budget for 2025 is P737 billion which is lower than its proposed P748 billion. It’s just like cutting the opportunity for the agency that molds the lives of the country’s future. What an ambitious move for the lawmakers!
The allocations removed by the Congress include the creation of new teaching positions, the Basic Education Facilities Fund (BEFF) and the Deped Computerization Program (DCP). To recall, DepEd
School children will be left behind and cannot meet the demands of a modern technology-driven world
proposed an estimate of P12 billion pesos for its DCP but only given an approximate of P2 billion. This will greatly affect the capacities of the department to procure laptops, smart TV’s, and satellite-based internet that will benefit our teachers and learners. Senator Angara, the acting DepEd Secretary supported this whoop and warned that it will widen the digital divide.
With this, more school children will be left behind and cannot meet the demands of a modern technology-driven world.
How can we have access to the digital world and achieve skills of the 21st century if funding for digital education
has been slashed? The hope of the country lies in the hands of the youth. How can we perform our expected duty if the current situation doesn’t favor us. Our hopes for a better
educational system must not be compromised. The government should prioritize addressing the extensive shortages in basic education needs and resolving the worsening learning crisis. #
| Zhiane O. Oyando Correspondent
TAre we achieving more with this new set-up or are we just worsening the learning-crisis?
he MATATAG curriculum is the new face of the educational system in the Philippines wherein 45 minutes per subject is the allotted time allocation for teaching and learning. The question is, is it fair enough to achieve quality education?
DepEd Order No. 12 s. 2024 amends and introduces new provisions for the implementation of DepEd Order No. 10 s. 2024 or the Policy Guidelines on the Implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum gave schools the
flexibility to choose whether all learning areas for 45 minutes a day each for five days, and the Homeroom Guidance Program for 45 minutes once a week; or Learning areas may be given uniform time allotments of 50, 55, or 60 per learning area based on the following: Five times a week (English, Mathematics, Science, and Good Manners and Right Conduct/Values Education); Four times a week (Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan/Technology and Livelihood Education, and Music, Arts, Physical Education
and Health, Araling Panlipunan, and Filipino); and Once a week (Homeroom Guidance Program). Our school opted to have the former.
Are we achieving more with this new set-up or are we just worsening the learningcrisis?
Subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science which are considered major subjects should be given more time, like 60 minutes. Concepts in these subjects are more complicated, and we need ample time to be able for us
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to understand them better. We also need different activities to supplement the topics and experiments and observations to amplify these concepts for better understanding.
MAPEH and EPP subjects which are performance-based also need sufficient time for concepts and explorations.
MATATAG from its name itself dreams of a stable education among the youth. To achieve it, they must recalibrate the curriculum to better prepare learners for the future.#
| Dan Ziyanne F. Parungo Editor-In-Chief
We are still Ilocanos – living its blood and purpose “
One of the provisions of the MATATAG curriculum is the removal of the Mother TongueBased Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) as a subject but remained as a medium of instruction for learners in the primary grades. This draws a sigh of relief from the teachers, learners, and parents of Balaoan Central School.
Even before its removal, a clamor from the
academe including BCS has been rising since it has issues and even caused confusions. For the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines, scrapping the Mother Tongue is “counterproductive to learning” because this serves as a subject that maximizes the home language as an effective language of instruction.
For teachers, Mother Tongue as a subject is redundant with Filipino and English
Subjects. Concepts learned in the former subject are also learned in the latter. This causes confusion among learners and adds to the burden of teachers in lesson planning.
Furthermore, the terminologies being used in the Mother Tongue subjects are different from the ones being used by the vernacular. This added to the dilemma for teachers in asking its meaning and explaining it to the learners.
From a learners’ perspective, its removal will be beneficial to them as one subject has been reduced. Parents also believe that this will benefit them, especially for others who are not fluent in Iloco language. The removal doesn’t mean that we forget our roots, especially in promoting our own dialect. We are still Ilocanos –living its blood and purpose.#
The burdens seem burning for teachers as DepEd Order No. 002, s. 2024 or the immediate removal of administrative tasks from teachers’ workloads took effect.
This move from the department may somehow ease the burden that our teachers are carrying and we’re still recovering from the reading loss of learners due to the pandemic. They will be given ample time to do remediation and enhancement activities to bridge the reading gap.
According to DepEd, around 50 ancillary workloads are assigned to teachers and included in their workloads which affect their teaching performance, so, the order aimed to maximize the teaching time
We use our talent to deliver good news and spread love for fairness, authenticity, and integrity
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of teachers for they will become focused on the teaching and learning process and become effective facilitators of learning.
Research showed that teachers were not able to do their best during face-to-face classes because they are required to be involved in administrative tasks. As a result, their work increased in size and complexity, leading to a far more challenging environment, resulting in the loss of teachers due to redundancy, stress, and a shift to part-time work has forced the surviving teachers to rationalize their workload and scale back their professional dedication. This initiative of the government will protect and uplift the welfare of Filipino publicschool teachers to support them
to teach better which in return can produce quality learning among the school children.
Upon approval, such tasks are then performed by school heads and non-teaching personnel. “If we want a better education among our learners, then we must first invest with our teachers”. Now, the bottom-line is, is it possible that most of our non-teaching personnel may result in resignation because of the additional loads?
To address the issue, the Department has ordered the Schools Division Offices to cluster and employ nonteaching personnel or employ Contract of Service or Job Order staff with charges applicable to either Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) or
any local funds applicable. Teachers are vital in realizing effective education in the classroom. If we want a better education among our learners, then we must first invest with our teachers. While it is commendable that teachers face challenges with a positive attitude, it would still be great to look at ways to get the work done without endangering the teachers’ physical health, interpersonal relationships, or professional self-concept. Teachers are our nation-builders. The building’s foundation became weak without support. So, with teachers, they become inefficient without support, and with this, finally we can say that their burdens are slowly burning.#
The Journey of a Centralian spends NEDAs food budget in the rise of inflation
Elisse M. Zabala
I am Nida. A grade 6 learner of Balaoan Central School. I live in Pagbennecan, Balaoan, La Union. Our house is situated 5 kms away from the school. Among the five children of my parents, I am the youngest. My parents are both farmers. My siblings have their own families now. I am the last child who’s still studying. As the youngest, I have witnessed the struggles of my parents in giving us a good life. Sometimes we eat. Sometimes we don’t. But I am determined to finish my studies.
It was Monday morning. I need to rush to school. It was 7:00 am already and I will be late for our flag raising ceremony. In order not to be, I need to hire a tricycle and my fare costs 10 pesos. My heart is saddened. Even if I opted not to hire, I would be late.
Upon arriving, I remembered. It was our assessment day. I came to realize that I ran out of paper. So, I decided to buy it in the school canteen. It cost me 5 pesos for 10 pieces.
As time passed by, we were now done with two subjects in the morning and it’s time for a health break. I rushed to the school canteen again. I am starving. I haven’t eaten my breakfast. I
The smell of the arrozcaldo calmed my nerves. I need to have one and it costs 15 pesos for a small serving coupled with half slice of egg and shredded chicken meat.
As I enjoy my hot meal, I came to realize I need a satisfying drink. But I opted not to. I’ll just take water. It’s free and it’s healthy.
Here comes lunch time. My mother couldn’t prepare my food as she needed to go to the farm early together with my father.
Ate Anna, the canteen manager, cooked tortang talong. An eggplant dish roasted or boiled and dipped in beaten eggs and fried. It was the only viand left. I had no choice but to spend 20 pesos for the meal. Luckily, I was able to pack my rice, one that was left last night. I smelled it. It is still okay, maybe in a few minutes, it will start to emit a bad odor.
I had my sumptuous lunch.
It’s 1:00 pm already and time for our third and final subjects. I had to finish early so that I could go home early. Mathematics is the last subject that we need to go through. The test was difficult. I came across one question that needs computation and I realized I need to compute the amount of money I’ve spent within the day. 10 + 5 + 15 + 20 = 50 pesos. Geez! I have spent my one-week allowance for just a single day. Cold sweat started to drizzle in my face. I do not have money anymore and even my fare going home was spent. What am I going to do?
Nida is just one of the many Filipinos affected with the rising inflation. With NEDAs or the National Economic Development Authority statement that a Filipino citizen spending 64 pesos a day for his meal will not be considered food-poor. As for Nidas context, who spent 50 pesos not for her meal alone but for her school expenses, does the 64 pesos suffice her needs?
I don’t think so. Instead of giving statistics or defining what is meant to be food-poor, why not give solutions that will ease the everyday burden of Nida and other Filipinos on the influx of the rising price of commodities?
Let us help Nida achieve her dreams. She’s striving. Let us do our part also.#
Elisse M. Zabala
For many young learners in the Division of La Union, the kindergarten experience is more than just the first step into formal education — it’s a journey into a magical world, lovingly crafted by the dedication of teachers like Sir Herson and Ma’am Deliza. With years of commitment to nurturing young minds, these two exemplary educators have not only transformed their classrooms but also set benchmarks in teaching excellence.
Sir Herson, now celebrating 14 years as a kindergarten teacher, has become a symbol of unwavering dedication and passion for early childhood education. His journey began with five years as a volunteer Kinder teacher, followed by nine years as a permanent educator. Over the years, he has consistently proven that education thrives in an environment of creativity and care. His classroom is a marvel to behold, earning recognition in 2019 as one of the Model Kindergarten Classrooms in La Union. This milestone was further complemented in 2023 when he was awarded the Sustainability Award for the Search for Model Kindergarten Classrooms.
Step inside Sir Herson’s classroom, and you’ll find vibrant learning corners, colorful displays, and interactive tools that cater to the diverse needs of every kindergartner. His classroom embodies everything a Kinder room should be. His work has elevated the standard of teaching, showing that a Kinder classroom can be a place of innovation, sustainability, and love.
Captivating. Reminiscing. Enchanting. Mesmerizing. These are only four words among the 100 ways to describe Balaoan. Situated in the northern part of La Union, it is a place of tranquility, a place where modernity rises in a vast of historical places wherein the the past meets the future. This is Balaoan - nature and culture collided in one. Balaoan is a 1st class municipality in the province of La Union. From its vast lands of agriculture down to its magnificent beaches and other bodies of water, Balaoan continues to soar as one of the rising tourists haven in Ilocandia. Let’s take a ride to some of its natural and man-made wonders that will surely awaken your sleeping soul and get ready to be captivated by its beauty.
hundreds of islands, well, Balaoan has only one but likened it to a paradise. Immuki Island derives its name from the genital part of a woman. It may sound disgusting but thrilling adventures await in this island. From its pristine beaches down to different activities like crystal kayaking and boat riding, Immuki Island also offers a delightful food adventure with its famous guso and maratangtang, the one-town one-product (OTOP) of Balaoan. Let go of your worries and enjoy the panoramic view of the ocean and be free in Immuki.
On the other hand, Ma’am Deliza, with six years of experience teaching kindergarten in Balaoan Central School, is another shining example of excellence in early childhood education. Her creative teaching strategies and dedication have earned her a spot as one of the finalists for the Search for Model Kindergarten Classrooms this school year, 2024-2025. Her classroom is a haven where learning meets joy — activity corners buzzing with hands-on learning tools, and a warm, nurturing atmosphere that makes every child feel valued and loved. Her approach blends structure and freedom, allowing her young learners to explore, discover, and grow at their own pace.
Together, Sir Herson and Ma’am Deliza embody the best of what early childhood education should be. Their years of dedication, passion, and love for teaching have left an indelible mark not only on their learners but also on the Division of La Union. Their achievements remind us that great teachers don’t just teach — they inspire, innovate, and transform.
As they continue their Kinder adventures, their story becomes a testament to the power of education in shaping the future. Sir Herson and Ma’am Deliza, with their remarkable contributions, have shown that when teachers dream big, their learners soar even higher.#
made forest. With the towering mahogany trees meticulously aligned along Almeida roads, get enchanted with Almeida’s man-made forest and have an instagrammable picture with its remarkable background while having patinteros with the vehicles passing the area.
pure stream that calms the soul with the sound of its ravishing waters and hanging bridge that takes you to a nature-adventure. Aside from being a main source of water for farmlands that surrounds the area, Nagsipol river is a rising destination suitable for picnics and camping.
got you. One of the remaining five watchtowers in the province of La Union, Almeida watchtower remains a remarkable glimpse of the past signifying the resilience of Ilocanos. Declared as a natural cultural treasure by NMP in 2014, this structure serves as a hiding post for predators of the sea to protect communities, it remains steadfast amid challenges and calamities that hit the area.
The best time of the year is December, not just because it’s time for Christmas but the celebration of Panagyaman Festival, a festival intended for a bountiful harvest of the townspeople. Showcasing the culture and traditions of Balaonians, the parade of colors, music, and dance present the different livelihoods of people and products of the municipality.
This is Balaoan. Experience to be number one and start in Balaoanthe prime destination for everyone.#
Kate Gabrielyn C. Gallego
Three star school was awarded to Balaoan Central School during the WASH in Schools (WINS) validation of the Department of Education on September 11, 2024.
This means that BCS facilities and systems were upgraded to meet national standards.
The school clinic, school canteen, handwashing stations, and comfort rooms were among the facilities visited.
The validators were composed by Rodeone C. Almoite, RN, Joylisa Cabatu, RN, and Judy Ann Casuga, RN. They commended the effort of the school in providing necessary facilities and systems to ensure that learners will have a safe and conducive WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Schools) environment.
BCS pledged to improve its facilities on the second and final evaluation.#
earners of Balaoan Central School receive free oral and dental healthcare from the La Union Schools Division Office Dental Team on January 14, 2025.
Dr. Michael Puzon, Dr. Marilyn Rico, Mr. Manuel David, and Mr. Christopher Bragas were the personnel who gave assistance to the learners.
“It is important for our learners to take care of their oral health, for some diseases start in the mouth,” said Bragas in an interview.
Meanwhile he also reiterated the
Reej Raizel O. Espina
importance of proper tooth brushing.
“Ang tamang pagsesipilyo ay nakakatulong upang makaiwas sa anumang oral related diseases” he uttered.
Learners underwent dental checkup and some were referred for tooth extraction.
The activity is an annual program of the La Union Schools Division Dental Team to ensure the welfare of learners in the division.#
‘Basura
Iuwi
In support of Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, Balaoan Central School initiated the Basura Mo, Uwi Mo project through requiring individualized eco bags for every learner to ensure proper waste disposal and help eradicate school wastes.
Waste such as paper cups and plastic wrappers and packaging will be stored in their eco-bags and are required to bring home.
Meanwhile, recyclable materials such as plastic bottles and cans were collected and stored in the Materials
Reej Raizel O. Espina
Recovery Facility while biodegradable wastes such as fruit and vegetable peelings were thrown at the schools rotting pit.
This is to ensure the proper waste disposal and instill the proper ways of segregating wastes among learners in the school.
This project is reinforced by the Supreme Elementary Learners Government (SELG) wherein they checked the eco-bags of learners if properly labeled and utilized.
“After lunch, our officers are roaming around every room to make sure that our learners are doing their part and
teachers are strict in the implementation of the project”, said Elaine V. Carolino, SELG adviser.
Furthermore, learners expressed their support for the project.
“Mas mainam nang iuwi ang basura upang maiwasan ang pagkakalat sa loob ng campus”, said Zyrus Opena, grade 6 learner.
Recently, an ordinance was strengthened in the Municipality of Balaoan where eco-bags and native bayongs and baskets served as the main component for holding customers’ purchases in the wet and dry goods market.#
The number of severely wasted and wasted learners succumbed to 10% based on the initial assessment of the nutritional status of Balaoan Central School learners last August 2024 making an insurgency in the schools feeding program.
This was 4% higher than last year’s assessment.
This comprised 126 severely wasted learners from Grades 1 to 6. According to Mrs. Donna Fe N. Estrada, school feeding coordinator, the gradual increase is affected by inflation.
Due to this, the
school-based feeding program, which started onSeptember 2024 was intensified to address malnutrition issues.
Recipients will need to undergo 60 days of taking nutritious foods which includes nutribun or karabun, fruit juice, brown rice bar, rice mongo blend, nutri cookies, fortified curls, iron fortified rice,
and pasteurized milk.
According to Estrada, the program is slowly making an impact in the improvement of the health status of learners.
“So far, okay naman, maganda at nakakatulong talaga. Maganda naman ang feedbacks na galing sa mga parents”.
Meanwhile,
parents also showed their support to the program and shared their sentiments about it.
“Malaking tulong eto sa mga anak namin dahil bukod sa kinakain nila sa bahay ay nakakain sila ng mas masustansyang pagkain dito sa eskwelahan”, said Brendell Oracion, parent.#
roject YEL or Young Environmental Leaders Planting for Tomorrow is a learner initiated activity which increases participation of learners in promoting environmental stewardship by converting open spaces of the school into green spaces. This activity is an initiative of the Supreme Elementary Learner
Government.
“This program helps increase the participation of learners to environmental protection at the same time raising awareness that a single tree can save millions of lives” said Elaine V. Carolino, SELG adviser. Learners conduct tree planting activities every last Friday of the month and started last September and will end in March.#
At its core, “health is wealth” means that your physical and mental wellbeing is far more important than wealth in the realm of life satisfaction. It’s saying, “Yes, money is great. It can solve many problems and lead to a fantastic quality of life. But in the absence of good health, it means very little.” But in today’s current situation, it is going the other way around. Without wealth, you cannot afford health.
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is set to retain its premium rate to 5% this 2025. This an additional burden for Filipinos amidst the increasing rate of goods and services.
A study published by the Philippine Daily Inquirer in 2024 found that PhilHealth only shouldered a measly 14 percent of the total health expenditure
Denish Roa O. Bagnas
of Filipino households. This is troublesome to many as the bulk of the health-care expenses at 45 percent is still paid for by Filipino households out of their own pockets. So how come a mere citizen can afford to get sick if the state owned healthcare system fails
budget proposal of PhilHealth to fund the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) this year, due to some concerns over its ability to efficiently use the reserves for its operations, especially amid complaints from citizens about slow reimbursements and service
But in today’s situation that we are facing, you need first to be wealthy to be healthy.
to take care of its citizens. This is opposite to the agency’s statement that it would continue to implement enhanced benefit packages this year, saying it has a “strong financial position” to pay for the health benefits of all Filipinos. Recently, the Congress eliminated the P74-billion
inefficiencies.
Now the question is, what will happen now?
The bulk of PhilHealth’s finances shall now be shouldered by Filipino workers, who are direct contributors. In 2023 data, Filipino workers, both here and abroad, remitted
a total of P158 billion in contributions to PhilHealth.
Does this mean that its contributors will now take the burden on how the agency will keep going? Is the access to free health care for Filipinos now a dream?
The “No Balance Billing” mandate of PhilHealth before gives out-of-pocket expenses for patients. Now that the agency faced a dilemma of its budget, will every Filipino will now shoulder its expenses when hospitalized??
The government must balance the need for reform with the obligation to protect the health and well-being of the Filipino people.
It’s true that being healthy is just like being wealthy. But in today’s situation that we are facing, you need first to be wealthy to be healthy.#
Just recently, news about this disease is making buzz online. Let’s take a look at this viral disease and how it affects millions of children worldwide.
HFMD or also known as Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is a contagious viral infection primarily affecting children up to 10 years old. Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, blister-like lesions on the tongue, gums and inside the cheeks, and rashes on the palms and soles of the feet. HFMD is commonly associated with poor hygiene and can also affect adults. Severe cases may lead to complications such as respiratory infections and co-infections with bacterial diseases.
There are a number of ways HFMD can spread, including contact with infected body fluids. This is most commonly through aerosols when a person coughs or sneezes. Also, it can be acquired through the fluid that forms within the blisters, which is one of the HFMD signs and symptoms and can be acquired from contact with the stool of an infected person. Contaminated water can also cause the spread of HFMD. Maternal to child transmission is possible during childbirth if the mother gets infected around this period.
Often HFMD signs and symptoms are mild and can be managed at home without medications. Just like most viral illnesses, the disease usually resolves spontaneously. There is currently no specific cure and management usually rests on addressing the signs and symptoms of HFMD. Since the sores are painful, analgesics can be administered. Infection in older age groups might last more than a week. Fever can be addressed with lukewarm sponge baths and over-the-counter medication, like paracetamol.
There are a lot of myths surrounding HFMD and it's time to debunk them.
• Adults cannot get HFMD. It’s not just the little ones who are at risk of the virus. Adults can be infected too. In fact, they can carry the virus and transmit it to children who are susceptible.
• You can only get HFMD once in your lifetime. This is also not true. HFMD is caused by a number of viruses, so getting infected by one does not confer immunity against the other viruses.
• There is a treatment for the disease. There is no available treatment for the disease. Most of the treatment involves supportive care and intelligent ways.#
From the simple dance floor of Balaoan Central School to the grandeur stage of Miss Saigon.
Yes you heard it right, a BCS alumnus dances his way to success in broadway.
As Miss Saigon takes its highly anticipated Manila production, let’s take a look at this Centralian who lives with his dream on the international stage.
Mr. Winchester Ramos Lopez is a former grade 3 learner of Balaoan Central School and son of Mrs. Leticia Lopez. During her elementary years, he went on to become a runner-up in the Solo Voice Category for the National Music Competition for Young Artists. His desire for the performing arts was elevated when he moved to St. Martin School in Baguio City where he became a soloist, singer and dancer. There, he was ready to learn from the best and earned a dance scholarship from the Philippine High School for the Arts in Laguna. Though he took a course in Anthropology in college, he didn’t forget his passion in dancing and joined the UP Filipiniana Dance Group of the state university. He later became a principal dancer and faculty of Douglas Nierras’ Powerdance, an internationally-
recognized dance company based in Quezon City. His passion didn't stop there and took it into higher opportunities when joined the premier jazz and contemporary dance in the Philippines and had the chance to perform internationally in the US, Europe, and Southeast Asia. He was one of the ensemble members in Repertory Philippines’ Song and Dance. He performed in various Royal Caribbean International production shows as a cast dancer and aerialist. He was part of the Miss Saigon UK International Tour and Miss Saigon Danish version in Copenhagen, Denmark.
In 2022, Chester was the Dance Captain of the Miss Saigon German version in Vienna, Austria. At present, he is now the Dance Supervisor of Miss Saigon and responsible for maintaining the show in terms of the movement and choreography.
With this, Balaoan proves that we have talents that are worth sharing to the world and Lopez is one of the living proof that no dream is impossible as long as you believe in yourself and work hard to achieve that dream.#
To win a game, one must need discipline and determination outside the court through training and inside the court, in an in-game situation. Sadly speaking, these traits are slowly vanishing, and athletes depend on luck and the bahala na system which is an expression of a fatalistic attitude towards achieving victory.
Let’s start with the preparatory activities of training – the warm-up activities. Learner athletes tend to give least importance on this matter. Some said that these are exhausting activities that make the body tired, especially for elementary athletes. Research showed that a warm-up may help reduce the risk of injury. A thing that we should never want to happen for them.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Implementation of School Sports Club, schools
“Victory is not deserved, it’s being earned.”
should only conduct at least twice a week for a minimum of three hours for training. For developing athletes, they need more time for this. So, teachers and coaches conduct afterschool training to address this problem. With this, athletes tend not to go because of a tiring academic day in school and for some reasons that they need to make take home requirements.
In a game situation, athletes failed to listen to their coach’s instructions. They go on their own way as if no one is coaching them. Why do we always congratulate the players when their team wins and blame their coach for losing. The coach is not the one who is playing, it’s the athletes.
Victory is not deserved, it’s being earned. Everyone wants to win the championship but not everyone wants to work for it. #
TMarc Diolo M. Dionesio
he Apatut Spikers of Apatut Elementary School claimed its first championship after beating the Balaoan Central School Smashers in two sets, 25-22, 25-33 during the Municipal Meet last November 04, 2024 at Nalasin Covered Court, Nalasin, Balaoan, La Union.
Apatut spikers leaned on the hard services of Simon Arciaga forcing the Central smashers to dismantle its defense in the first set, 25-22.
Apatut’s domination continued in the second set leaving the smashers in tears and ultimately fell short to suffer their first heartbreak after dominating the volleyball scene for threeconsecutive years.
Apatut was led by Simon Arciaga with a team-high 10 aces and 5 kills while MJ Valdez tallied 15 attacks for Balaoan Central in its loss.
The Apatut Spikers will represent the district in the upcoming Cluster 1 - Athletic Unit Meet at Sudipen Central School, Sudipen, La Union on November 09, 2024.#
TMarc Diolo M. Dionesio
he Cagers of Balaoan Central School Sepak Takraw Team held its head high as they clinched its first ever gold on its debut in the Municipal Meet last November 04, 2024.
This marks the schools first podium finish after many years of not participating in the said sports.
The men’s quadrant team crushed Butubut Norte ES in two sets, 15-13, 15-10, to assure itself of the historic medal.
In the preliminaries, the Cagers showed grit and determination after beating Masupe ES in three sets, 15-8, 9-15, 15-11 and showed dominance with Apatut ES beating them in two sets, 15-7, 15-3.
“I am happy for my players since ngayon lang nagkaroon ng team ang sepak. This is a testament na kaya pala namin when we strive for the best”, said Herson B. Dingle, coach.
They will represent the school and the district in the Cluster 1 - Athletic Unit Meet on November 09, 2024 at Sudipen Central School, Sudipen, La Union.
For the sixth time, Balaoan Central School dominated the municipal meet on November 06, 2024.
Athletes from Balaoan Central School proved that they are the center of excellence in sports as they grabbed awards in the different sports in the recently concluded athletic competition.
In Basketball and Sepak Takraw, the BCS Ballers and BCS Killers clinched gold respectively.
The Blazing Central Smashers also won Silver and Bronze in Volleyball Boys and Girls Categories.
In Athletics, BCS runners snatched Gold in 4x100 Boys, 4x400 Girls, and 4x400 Girls Categories.
The BCS Gymnastics Team also won Silver in the RG Individual All Around and MAG Individual All Around Categories.
In Badminton, BCS hitters clinched
Silver and Bronze in Single A and B Girls Category and Bronze in Girls Doubles.
Gold was also won in Table Tennis.
For Chess, young check masters clinched Bronze and Silver in Board 1 and 2 Boys while Silver and Gold was clinched in Board 1 and 2 Girls.
Qualified athletes will represent the school and the district in the 2024 Cluster 1 Meet in Sudipen Central School on November 9, 2024.#
The La Union Schools Division will host the 2025 Region 1 Athletic Association Meet on March 10-15, 2025 and Balaoan Central School will serve as one of the billeting schools of athletes coming from the region.
The announcement was made last January 24, 2025 through a planning conference at the Division Conference Center, City of San
Fernando, La Union.
BCS will welcome the entire delegation of the City Schools Division of Laoag, Ilocos Norte.
“This is the first time that the school will be hosting and welcoming such big crowds in the sporting events, and such big responsibility is also needed”, articulated by Dr. Mary Eu Ann R. Ordono, principal.
The school is now starting its preparations for the event by ensuring its facilities
are ready.
“Sinisimulan na ang pagdagdag sa mga additional facilities like comfort rooms and wash areas para ma-ensure ang comfort and safety ng ating mga delegates”, Ordono added.
Meanwhile, parents also pledged their support for the hosting.
“Excited kami na i-welcome ang mga tagaLaoag at ipa experience sa kanila ang hospitality ng mga taga-Balaoan”, said Katrina Concepcion, parent.#
CHECK-MATES. Not just competitors but classmates before. Reynald Arciaga and Marc Justine Valdez, both grade 6 learners, compete in chess during the Municipal
ith their precision and flexibility in every move, young gymnasts of Balaoan Central School emerged as winners in the Municipal Meet on November 06, 2024.
Scarlet Savannah Natividad bags silver in the Rhythmic Gymnastics
- Individual All Around while Jed Oligo also bags silver in Men Artistic Gymnastics - Individual All Around.
“I am just happy that our program for gymnastics is finally coming into its fresh start, again”, said Carlito G. Ortaliza Jr., coach. Gymnastics was
a booming program in sports for Balaoan Central School ten years ago. The program is slowly clinching its spot again with the recent victory of Carlos Yulo in the Olympics.
“Naging motivation namin ung pagkapanalo ni Yulo, kaya naman, unti-unti naming nirerevive and slowly reclaiming the glory that was once ours”, Ortaliza added.
Natividad will represent Balaoan Central School in the Cluster 1 - Athletic Unit Meet on November 09, 2024 at Sudipen Central School, Sudipen, La Union.#