IN A bid to harmonize its services for learners, the Department of Education conducted the first National Consultative Workshop on the implementation of programs, projects and activities under its MATATAG Agenda.

Led by the Bureau of Learner Support Services of DepEd, the national activity aimed to gather data and information through in-depth discussions on achievements, status, challenges and recommendations in the implementation of PPAs on school health, school and sports.

“This workshop will be a significant step towards achieving the MATATAG Agenda, helping DepEd to create more child-friendly environments. I am excited to see BLSS utilize the workshop’s outcomes to further contribute to the holistic development of young learners and thoroughly prepare them for adulthood,” Education Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio said.

The BLSS introduced the learner support strategic direction under the One BLSS Framework which will help the program to be more effective and efficient.

“The implementation of the learner support programs and services has been a challenge for teachers, who are often burdened with non-teaching and administrative duties. These harmonization initiatives seek to lessen the burden on teachers, enabling them to focus on teaching and making the work of implementers on the ground more effective and efficient,” BLSS Director Nenneth Esplana-Alama said.

The consultative meeting was also attended by learner support program implementers and focal persons from the regional, division, and school levels.