THE DEPARTMENT of Education Regional Office III released regional guidelines for the implementation of the provisions of Republic Act 11476 or “GMRC and Values Education Act” in all public schools in Central Luzon.

Regional Director May Eclar said they welcome the passage of the law as this “empowers their learners to contribute to nation-building while protecting their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social being.”

“This law bridges the Filipino people’s collective actions towards a citizenry who are Maka-Diyos, Maka-tao, Makakalikasan, and Makabansa. Furthermore, the BEDP Basic Education 2030 envisions Filipino learners who possess physical, cognitive, socio-emotional, and moral preparation for civic participation and engagement in post-secondary opportunities,” Eclar said.

The core values emphasized in this framework include Maka-Diyos (God-fearing), Makatao (Humanitarian), Makakalikasan (Environmentally conscious), and Makabansa (Patriotic).

“Learners are encouraged to take pride in Filipino national identity, aspire for economic prosperity and socio-political stability, and live in a sustainable world,” she added.

DepEd III said the implementing guidelines will also intensify its promotion of the ‘Ukit Marangal’ Agenda, which aims “to instill a transformative culture among DepEd personnel, teachers and learners.”

Through Regional Memorandum No. 013 s.2024, public schools in the region are directed to adhere to a standardized interpretation and application of RA 11476.

This includes adopting Magalang Bow, allocating time for EsP/GMRC-VE, promoting Filipino Values, observing Filipino Values Month, incorporating interfaith/ecumenical prayer, conducting the Regional Character Development Program, managing Time Allotment, facilitating capacity building/training, and retaining trained EsP/GMRC-VE teachers.

“The adoption of Magalang Bow is based on DepEd Order No. 88, s. 1991 in which it is stated that a Magalang Bow or any other similar gestures will be practiced by the learners when greeting school authorities, personnel, elders, and stakeholders inside or outside the school premises,” Eclar explained.

“‘Magandang Buhay, Mabuting Tao’ is said while placing the right palm on the left chest and lowering the head slightly in front of the person being greeted. The greeting must be acknowledged similarly,” she stated.

In addition to adopting the Magalang Bow, public schools and DepEd offices in the region must incorporate interfaith/ecumenical prayer into the flag ceremony, before and after classes, and various school activities.

Moreover, a minimum of 5-10 minutes should be allocated for discussing Filipino Values during the flag ceremony, aligning with the designated values for the month.

All school activities, contests, and programs should also actively promote values, clearly reflected in their plans, proposals, and promotional materials.