THE DEPARTMENT of Education has reinforced its commitment to supporting Filipino educators and learners in Philippine Schools Overseas (PSOs) across the Middle East.

Through ongoing outreach efforts, DepEd has connected with teachers and more than 23,000 students in 27 PSOs, ensuring that they continue to receive guidance and assistance amid evolving challenges.

In a virtual dialogue dubbed “Online Kumustahan,” DepEd officials engaged school administrators, teachers, and learners, reaffirming the government’s commitment to their safety and the continuity of education.

In a message delivered during the session, Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the administration’s directive to prioritize the welfare of overseas Filipinos and their families.

“Alinsunod sa direktiba ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., narito kami upang magbigay ng suporta at malinaw na gabay para masiguro ang pag-aaral at seguridad ng ating mga OFW at kanilang mga pamilya sa gitna ng hamong ito,” he said.

The real-time dialogue provided an avenue for PSO leaders to raise concerns about operational challenges, including crisis communication protocols and the need for academic flexibility in line with host country regulations.

DepEd Assistant Secretary for Operations Jocelyn Andaya and Private Education Office Director Runvi Manguerra led discussions on the transition to online learning delivery. Since March, all 27 Middle East-based PSOs have adopted remote learning modalities to safeguard students while maintaining academic continuity.

Representatives from the Association of Philippine Schools Overseas, led by President Dr. Noemi Formaran, expressed their appreciation for the initiative, noting that the session fostered meaningful dialogue and strengthened collaboration between DepEd and overseas schools.