Empowering Educators: COCOPEA, CEAP, and Rex Education join forces for the MATATAG Regional Run

 

In a momentous collaboration, the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA), Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), and Rex Education, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), have joined forces to launch the COCOPEA–CEAP–REX MATATAG Curriculum Regional Run. Under the theme "Capacitating the Private Education Sector for the Effective Implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum," this event brings together educators, administrators, and stakeholders across the nation to prepare and enhance their educational practices for the new curriculum.

A Unified Commitment with the Learners in Mind

At the heart of this initiative is a unified vision: to empower educators and schools with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively implement the MATATAG Curriculum, ensuring that it meets and caters to the needs of all Filipino learners.

The Regional Run opens up with a powerful act of unity—a commitment board signing. From the first run to the last, this collective resolve sees all participants pledging their dedication to the success of the Regional Run and the MATATAG Curriculum's implementation.

The event focuses on three primary objectives:

1. Facilitate In-depth Understanding: Provide school leaders with a platform to delve into the key features, principles, and contents of the MATATAG Curriculum, fostering comprehensive understanding and appreciation.
2. Equip School Leaders with Implementation Strategies: Offer strategies, guidance, and inspiration to school leaders on how to effectively transition to and implement the MATATAG Curriculum within their respective institutions.
3. Foster Collaboration: Cultivate a network of educators and leaders committed to collaborative efforts in addressing challenges and maximizing opportunities presented by the MATATAG Curriculum.

All these objectives are carefully crafted with the learners in mind, aiming to enhance their educational experience and ensure their holistic development.

Insightful Plenary and Breakout Sessions

During the 2-day program, there are six engaging plenary sessions to provide comprehensive insights into the MATATAG Curriculum. These sessions cover key aspects, namely:

● The General Shaping Paper

● 21st-Century Skills in the MATATAG Curriculum

● Collaborative Expertise

● MATATAG Instructional Design Framework

● Learning Progression

● Operationalizing a Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum Focused on Enhancing Student Learning

Led by esteemed education leaders and representatives from DepEd, these sessions foster in-depth discussions on the key features, components, and relevant concerns of the MATATAG Curriculum, ensuring participants thoroughly understand how to implement these strategies effectively.

Aside from the plenary, participants also engage in 10 focused breakout sessions, each dedicated to the specific learning areas of the curriculum. The breakout sessions cover:

1. Kindergarten
2. Makabansa
3. Reading and Literacy, Language and English
4. Filipino
5. Araling Panlipunan (AP)
6. Mathematics
7. GMRC/Values Education
8. Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE)
9. Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (MAPEH)
10. Science

Each session discusses the learning area shaping papers, curriculum guides, and innovative strategies for pedagogy and assessment. Competent DepEd representatives and REX Edukampyon MATATAG Corps of Trainers, a team of seasoned educators and curriculum experts, band together for the breakout sessions toward the latter part of the regional run.

Regional Run Schedule

The event spans seven regional runs, covering all regions of the country. The first run was held at San Beda College-Alabang from February 29 to March 1 for Regions III and the National Capital Region. Here are the subsequent sessions.

Mar 22–23: San Beda College-Alabang (Regions IV-A, IV-B, and V)

Apr 18–19: Saint Louis University, Baguio City (Regions I, II, and CAR)

May 16–17: Cebu Institute of Technology-University, Cebu City (Regions VII and VIII)

Jun 19–20: Colegio de San Jose, Iloilo City (Regions IV and NIR)

Jun 24–25: Holy Cross College, Davao City (Regions XI and XII)

July 11-12: Xavier University- Ateneo de Cagayan, Cagayan de Oro (Regions IX, X, and parts of BARMM)

More than an event, the COCOPEA–CEAP–REX MATATAG Regional Run is a movement toward educational excellence in the country. With much hope and faith, the unified efforts of COCOPEA, CEAP, REX, DepEd, and the collective strength of Edukampyons aim to ensure that every Filipino educator benefits from the MATATAG Curriculum and every Filipino learner succeeds in their lifelong learning journey.

Shake off the stress: four hacks to lift up your mood on busy days

There are days when everything at school or work goes as planned, and then there are days when the stress keeps you from being productive. These are the times many dread the most because it disrupts one from being in the zone.

To help you get through these days, try out these simple hacks that can help lift your mood up even on your busiest day.

Call a friend

Sometimes, a friend’s listening ear and empathic voice are the balms you need to get through your day. Lean on your support group and don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Watch cute animal videos

Have you ever watched videos of tiny animals being all cute and silly on your feed? These videos might just melt your heart and make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. Turns out, studies prove that watching these videos helps reduce anxiety levels by up to 50%!

Schedule something fun after work hours

Try this no-fail hack on your worst work days. Rally your friends and have an after-work karaoke sesh, game night, dinner, or gig night. Having something to look forward to after the day’s battles can really help manage your stress.

Have a snack break

Snack breaks are the perfect excuse to escape your desk, huddle with your teammates, and vent your stress away. You also get to recharge with delicious snacks, and who doesn’t like that?

Speaking of snacks that help you recharge, have you tasted Kropek ni Mang Juan in Spicy Fried Pusit flavor? It offers a “kakaibang” snacking experience with its light and “crispy sarap” texture, and a “saktong anghang at alat” flavor of fried squid. It’s a one-of-a-kind snack that can satisfy your tastebuds.

Try it on your next snack break! Get Kropek ni Mang Juan in Spicy Fried Pusit flavor from a convenience store near your office and share it with your colleagues. You may just discover your new go-to recharge work snack!

Don’t let a bad mood ruin a work day. Next time you find yourself needing something to lighten up the vibe and help you refocus, try one (or all) of these mood-lifting hacks!

#PushLangWithMangJuan! Learn more about Mang Juan’s light and lutong-sarap good vibes snacks on its Facebook and TikTok pages.

Mang Juan is a snack brand from Universal Robina Corporation (URC), maker of well-loved Pinoy snack and beverage products such as C2 Cool and Clean, Great Taste Coffee, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Magic Crackers, Maxx, Cloud 9, and many others. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).

Enjoy snack breaks with the yummy Kropek ni Mang Juan Spicy Fried Pusit flavor

Kropek ni Mang Juan Spicy Fried Pusit offers a unique snacking experience with its “crispy sarap” texture and “saktong anghang at alat” fried squid flavor

Doc Roca, rising social media doctor and her journey to a holistic transformation

Social media has opened opportunities to influence and entertain people. But for others, they have been using social media platforms to educate people on certain topics. For Dr. Rocanisah Guro also known as Doc Roca, she uses social media to share her advocacy on aesthetic medicine.

At an early age, Doc Roca wanted to be a doctor. After finishing her medical degree as a General Physician, she practiced her profession in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. While working as a doctor, it was painful for her to see people coming to her sick or dying and earn from it.

Looking back, Doc Roca realized how challenging that situation was for her, feeling disheartened. That was the turning point of her career. She realized she needed a change in her career path. She left abroad, went back to the Philippines, studied, and trained in aesthetic medicine.

Under the meticulous tutelage of Dr. Sarah Barba Cabodil of Philippine Anti-Aging Medicine and Clinical Aesthetics (PAMCAS), Dr. Roca honed her skills in aesthetic medicine. In 2022, she opened her clinic. There, she found her true mission and calling.

Named RC Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic, Dr. Roca wants to establish her name in the aesthetic field. The proud CEO of RC Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic shares her commitment extends beyond clinical excellence to fostering holistic well-being. She also discovers that being part of the physical transformation of her patients makes her heart full.

The existence of digital media helps Doc Roca fulfill her mission. Doc Roca and her method of educating people, especially on social media, is approachable, funny, and witty. "I embrace the digital age as a social media influencer, leveraging these platforms to share insights, inspire confidence, and celebrate the harmonious blend of science and art in aesthetic practice", says Doc Roca.

She finds sharing her knowledge on social media as an act of charity. That is why she keeps posting relatable content regarding aesthetic medicine in a witty manner so people can connect to her. She captures the hearts of the people online.

RC Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic believes beauty builds confidence and it should start from within. Doc Roca has been enthusiastic about creating social media content on how to restore your beauty and gain your confidence back through these flagship services – Rejuran, Bio-Microneedling, and Face Nade.

Rejuran is a concentrated injectable polynucleotide (PN) extract from Wild Salmon DNA that is effective in skin rejuvenation. It helps restore skin health by improving skin’s elasticity and repairing skin damage caused by frequent UV exposure or various chemicals as it allows the skin tissue to heal and return to normal.

For individuals with acne scars and those who want to defy aging, Rejuran is your go-to treatment. This non-surgical treatment restores skin’s health and beauty by removing the deep wrinkles on the face, cheek lines, wrinkles around the eyes and lips as well as other areas besides the face that also need improved elasticity.

It also treats dehydrated skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, and dull skin. It eliminates freckles, blemishes, and dark spots. It minimizes acne scars. It tightens pores for a smoother, clearer face. This treatment will help you achieve younger-looking skin and attain that Korean glass skin you ought to have.

Biomicroneedling is a treatment that stimulates the body’s scar-healing response and increases cell renewal. The creation of collagen and elastin is initiated as your skin heals, giving you an almost instant plumping effect. This treatment is best for any type and many skin problems such as acne, scarring, dark spots, sun exposure, fine lines, and wrinkles. It can also treat stretch marks on the body.

Biomicroneedling can also treat multiple skin issues simultaneously. In just five minutes, three (3) million natural microneedles are delivered into the skin’s epidermis and dermis.

This treatment is half the cost of laser resurfacing. Safe and effective, this treatment is suitable for every skin color and type. It nourishes every layer of the skin. It does not need anesthetic. It does not cause bleeding or skin breakage. Moreover, it does not require the use of machines or metal needles. Those who have acne problems, experiencing hyperpigmentation and scarring as well as those who have aging skin can avail themselves of this wonderful treatment.

For individuals who want to achieve a slimmer, Barbie-like face, this treatment is perfect for you. Face Nade is an advanced facial contouring system from Spain. This professional, advanced face contouring mesotherapy treatment has clinically studied active ingredients that help break down facial fat, inhibit new fat growth, and strengthen skin structure to achieve smoother facial definition.

Its dual action promotes waste elimination while strengthening and firming the skin structure, effectively reshaping the facial contour. This treatment also enhances facial harmony and balance and redefines facial contour.

Check these aforementioned services and more at RC Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic located at 12 Bulusan Street, Brgy. Mauway, Mandaluyong City. For more information, please visit and follow their social media pages: Facebook: RC Aesthetic & Wellness Clinic; Instagram: @rcestheticandwellness; and Tiktok: @docroca.

SB19’s PABLO opens 2024 with genre-blurring single “DETERMINADO”

 

Blending hip-hop with rock music influences, the prolific songwriter/producer teams up with his brother Josue on this astounding new jam

SB19’s PABLO is back with another bop!

The Filipino singer-songwriter/producer blurs the line between hip-hop and rock on the new single “DETERMINADO,” his first offering this year under Sony Music Entertainment.

Produced by his brother Josue, the genre-averse track pushes experimentation as far as it can go while retaining the La Luna act’s distinct qualities as an artist who is comfortable in his own identity and sonic direction.

Speaking highly of his favorite collaborator, PABLO praised Josue for infusing game-changing ideas during the incubation period of the track and allowing him to shine with a solid production style that doesn’t necessarily have to confine to trends.

“We're a team, we always work hand in hand, always learning from each other, and drawing inspiration back and forth,” said the multi-talented soloist. “We grew up in the same environment so we just vibe and connect easily.”

Integrating dense instrumentation with gloomy synths and booming, confrontational beats, “DETERMINADO” not only impresses listeners with its scale and ambition but also reveals a different side of the SB19 vocalist and main rapper: someone who finds moments of vulnerability and strength in the face of chaos. In the words of PABLO himself, “It’s a realization when we find the courage to actually do what we want, and what kind of artist we aspire to be. We are confronting our fears and roadblocks, but still moving forward.”

Determined to jumpstart a new phase in his career, PABLO is more confident in his undertaking as a musician, going to a sonic space that remains untouched even by his contemporaries and peers.

He adds, “Our music is not just the output; it’s a collective of all the micro-things that happen behind the scenes and all throughout the process. We are more assertive now. Also, this song marks a departure from our previous releases; it's a blend of hip-hop and rock genres.”

Aside from “DETERMINADO,” PABLO is also gearing up for a more exciting 2024. He’s looking into dropping more solo releases apart from his work with SB19, and possibly a debut album to be released soon.

As the prolific artist puts it, “Again, going back to the song title, we are indeed on this journey. I have so many things planned to do in 2024, and definitely one of those is to release my own album.”

PABLO’s “DETERMINADO” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

SB19’s Josh Cullen forges own path with the release of new single, “Get Right”

The upbeat track is helmed by Josh Cullen himself with additional production by frequent collaborator Ocho the Bullet and UK-based indie sensation No Rome

P-Pop superstar Josh Cullen reclaims creative independence on his own terms with the release of his new single “Get Right” via Sony Music Entertainment.

The electro-pop banger finds the SB19 rapper and vocalist embracing his music journey while navigating the challenges of making a dent in a highly competitive industry as a solo act.

Josh explains, “Basically, it’s a declaration of my return, confidently showcasing my understanding of the game. The lyrics reflect my resilience, self-assurance, and the realization of how the industry operates. It's about asserting my presence, owning my space, and creating music that resonates with who I am as an artist.”

Written and produced by Josh Cullen himself with frequent collaborator Ocho the Bullet and UK-based indie icon No Rome, the upbeat track marks a significant departure from the vibe and songwriting style of his previous releases. Integrating EDM, hip-hop, and hyper-pop influences with a bass-heavy production, “Get Right” explores music for the sheer joy of reinvention and fun while tapping into a new sonic space that fits Josh’s personal style and brand.

“I was pretty much the brains and director of the process, but my cousin ‘Ocho’ really elevated things, surpassing my expectations,” the fast-rising producer and singer-songwriter explains. “I might've pushed him a bit hard with my specific vision, which got a bit stressful. However, he went all out on this insane drop we'd been dreaming of. And you know what? The outcome exceeded all my expectations.”

Josh adds, “Also, No Rome, who was a co-producer, brought some crazy energy to the mix too. His input added this insane energy to the whole process. He really brought some fire to the table.”

The release of the song comes with visuals developed by Josh himself. The music video features Josh and friends hanging out in Los Angeles, enjoying the warm climate and the laid-back, cosmopolitan lifestyle usually associated with the city.

“I just went with the flow and let my creativity run wild during those times,” said Josh. “I wanted to bring the visuals I've had in mind since we started making the song to life, and LA turned out to be the perfect spot for it. Yet, truthfully, YouMeUs and my team in LA exceeded all expectations. Despite being only three people in LA, their effort and discipline were monumental. They managed to make it look like a full-blown production with their dedication, imagination, improvisation, and hard work.”

Josh Cullen’s “Get Right” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.  The music video drops tonight, December 15, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. on Josh Cullen’s official YouTube page.

Puerto Princesa: A Paradise and Sports Hub

Puerto Princesa City, which forms part of the Philippines’ Last Frontier, is first on the list of ideal destinations of travelers, adventure-seekers, and nature lovers. With a good number of sports tournaments being held in the city, it is now solidifying its status as the “Sports Capital of the Philippines.”

Unstoppable. Phenomenal. Unbreakable. That’s what Puerto Princesa is as it plays host to world-class sports activities such as marine events like kite-boarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, banana-boat ride, tube riding and hookah diving. The city also regularly hosts the “Motocross Masters of Asia.” the Philippine leg of the FIM UAM Asian Motocross Series, Puerto Princesa International Motocross Grand Prix, Thai Riders, Pinoy Riders, Mountain Bike XC Challenge, and Boxing Eve “Hamon sa Puerto Princesa”

Puerto Princesa understands that sports and tourism are interrelated and complementary driving forces for the promotion and sustainable economic development of the city as an attractive tourism destination. It continues to boost its tourist arrivals by hosting and organizing more sporting events.

The city is blessed with natural resources and landscape to hold excellent mass-participation events such as triathlons and marathons, mountain bike and motor cross races, beach volleyball, and other water sports competitions.

“Talagang naka-project na ang Puerto Princesa sa sports tourism. Syempre yung hinahabol nating sports tourism yung mayroong international flavor,” City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron said.

Mega sports events such as Ironman and dragon boat festival can be catalysts for tourism development in Puerto Princesa if successfully leveraged in terms of destination branding, infrastructure development and other economic, cultural, and social benefits.

IRONMAN 70.3 PUERTO PRINCESA-ASIA TRI-CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

The second year of the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa - Asia Tri-Club Championship, the ultimate test of endurance, strategy, and strength, capped off the Philippines' triathlon season. It was successfully held in Puerto Princesa on November 12.

A total of 523 foreign and Filipino triathletes from 38 countries participated in the amazing race. Satar Salem (4 hours, 22 minutes, and 25 seconds) and Leyann Ramo (5 hours, 2 minutes, and 56 seconds) both of Tri SND Barracuda dominated the top overall age group for the male and female categories, respectively.

China’s Junyu Cao finished the race in second place at 4:23.13 while Dutch Olympian Eric Van der Linden rounded off the top three finishers in the male category with 4:24.41. Ramo’s teammate Lyllian Grace Banzon trailed her at second place in 5:29.23 while American Catherine Wood completed the top three in the women’s side with the time of 5:36.26.

Tri SND Barracuda of Lanao del Norte netted the country’s top triathlon squad a whopping P500,000 purse put up by Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron.

The competition was divided into three segments: a 1.9-kilometer swim in Puerto Princesa Baywalk, a 90-kilometer bike ride through the city’s southern part, and a 21.1-kilometer run. The grueling course covered 113.0 kilometers, or 70.3 miles.

City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron expressed his gratitude to the organizers, participants, and spectators for their support for Ironman 70.3. He also showed confidence that the competition will be successfully held again in the city next year as more local and foreign delegates are expected to attend.

THIRD LEGENDS RIDE 2023

The city understands that one of the most popular ways to experience a destination is through a sports event. It allows sports enthusiasts as well as tourists to better engage with local people, nature, and culture.

That happened when about 200 local and visiting riders participated in the 3rd Legends Ride 2023 held on November 18 in Puerto Princesa. The sports activity is part of the successful Subaraw Biodiversity Festival 2023.

From the starting point at Caltex Junction 3, the riders of different groups from all over the country, led by the Tamilok Motorcycle Group, marched together. The other participants were the Big Bikes, Palawan Street Monkeys, Himass Motorcycle Group/Hijos, United Sports Bike of Palawan (USP) and others on small bikes.

The route took the legend riders to Puerto Princesa landmarks such as the Montible Junction, Napsan at the Villa Francesca Resort in Simpocan, the Tala Beach Resort and straight to the Tennis Covered Court of the Ramon V. Mitra Sports Complex, inside Balayong People’s Park.

“Thank you very much for bringing the Legends Ride to our city. Because you enjoyed it, you will definitely come back here. You are always welcome here in Puerto Princesa City,” said City Mayor Bayron at the fellowship dinner at the Tennis Covered Court as he congratulated the organizers, riders, guests, and sponsors for the successful holding of the Legends Ride 2023.

Jun Diagono, president of the National Federation of Motorcycles said they are very happy with the success of Legends Ride 2023. He set two goals in going to Puerto Princesa City: first was to unite all the big bikes clubs in the Philippines; and second, to invite various groups to the National Motorcycle Convention on April 26-27, 2024, at the Subic Bay Convention Center.

Diagono also convinced Puerto Princesa City bike legend Edward Butch Chase to hold the national convention in the city next year. He also promised to bring LMFI’s 54-member bike clubs to participate in the upcoming event, including the Federation of Bikes Club based in Mindanao.

At the awarding, the youngest rider was Blu Andre Rausa, 19 years old; and the oldest rider was Bob Del Rosario, 74 years old. The Most Organized Group is Evo Riders Club Philippines and Biggest Group is Palawan Street Monkeys. A Special Citation was given to Philip Dulatas as the overall chair of the event, and a Certificate of Greatest Appreciation for the support of William Genato, Naj Abdul, and Elroy John “Clink: Hagedorn. The Living legend award was given to Edward Butch Chase.

The other participating groups were the Legends Ride are Binuang, GBC, Bandits, Baghawi Rider Club, Bundakan Motorcycle Club and Widows Son Masonic Riders Association.

2ND INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL 2023

The 2nd International Dragon Boat Festival 2023, held on November 19, attracted teams from Chinese Taipei, Manila, Cebu and Siargao which competed in the just-concluded 200-meter event. From this series of international activities, it has been proven that it is possible to raise the level of programs and activities in Puerto Princesa.

Strength, strategy, paddling speed, and teamwork were the advantages of the 'paddlers' who won the championship in the final competition. They showed the audience a breath-taking fight. Everyone wants to get away and no one wants to be left behind. So even on a sunny day, the applause and screams from the audience were loud and clear.

In the Women’s Category, the Alliance of Masters from Manila won the championship; 1st runner-up is the Philippine Titans – Manila; Fire Dragons A is 2nd runner-up – Manila; and Rampage is 3rd runner-up – Manila.

In the Men’s Category, Mr. Canoe from Chinese Taipei won the championship. Followed by Philippine Titans in second place, Dagun Pilipinas A in third place and Alliance of Masters in fourth place.

The battle in the Mixed Category was also uneventful where the Siargao Dragons from Surigao del Norte proved that they deserve to be champions. The Alliance of Masters placed second; Hongkong China Canoe took third place followed by SAG-1 from Manila in fourth place.

In the Masters Category where those aged 40 and above were given the opportunity to show their skills, the Sugbo Mighty Dragons from Cebu became champions; followed in second place by the Alliance of Masters; Rampage in third place; and Blue Phoenix from Manila in fourth place.

Praise and admiration were showered on the leadership of the Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragon Boat Federation, or PCKDF, for taking the lead in organizing the international sports event in the city.

Also heavily praised were the efforts shown by Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron in the tremendous success achieved by the municipal government for the competition.

“It was not easy but we know that we can win these big international events of ours. Of course with the support of department heads, city hall employees and the citizens who are there to support what we do. And even the organizations that trust us for big events. I am very grateful,” said City Mayor Bayron. “Please also expect that there are many more activities to look forward to that will definitely make the city recognized by the whole world not only for its eco-tourism wealth but also to become famous as the Sports Tourism Capital of the Philippines!”