29/05/2026
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๐ ๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ ๐จ๐ ๐๐จ๐ข๐๐๐ฌ: ๐๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ง๐ ๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ ๐๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ง๐๐ฒ
On May 29, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., a significant milestone in early basic education unfolded through a virtual orientation-workshop that gathered 252 dedicated participantsโschool heads and Key Stage 1 teachersโunited by a shared mission: to strengthen the foundation of learning through language.
Each participant logged in with a sense of purpose, aware that this was more than just another trainingโit was a step toward shaping a more inclusive and responsive educational system guided by DepEd Order No. 35, s. 2025 (Updated).
The workshop centered on the Language Mapping Process, a mechanism designed to systematically identify and classify the primary languages spoken by learners from Kindergarten to Grade 3. Speakers were Vicky F. Vibal,MT 1 of San Lorenzo ES and Aira A. Lacsam, T 3 of San Roque ES, together with the Language Supervisors Marlyn A. Cabrera and Laila R. Maloles.
Through engaging discussions and guided activities, the participants embraced the workshopโs key objectives. First, they learned how to document the dominant languages used by learners at home and within their communities, recognizing that these linguistic realities form the backbone of meaningful education. Teachers shared reflections about their own classrooms, recalling the diverse ways children express themselves.
Next, the workshop emphasized the importance of determining the appropriate Medium of Instruction (MOI) in both monolingual and multilingual settings. They were shown how to accomplish the different forms needed in determining the MOI-Medium of Instruction.
Equally important was the goal to support the development and distribution of contextualized learning resources.
Teresa F. Kamatoy, Prudencia D. Fule Memorial ES principal and one of the national writers of the learning resources for language mapping, emphasized that the materials are non-negotiable and should not be altered.
Beyond technical discussions, a deeper purpose resonated throughout the day: the commitment to promote linguistic equity and cultural transmission, especially in the early years of education. Participants recognized that language is not merely a tool for instruction, but a vessel of culture, values, and identity. By honoring learnersโ home languages, educators affirm their dignity and nurture pride in their roots.
The orientation-workshop concluded with a renewed sense of direction. Teachers and school leaders emerged not only with enhanced knowledge but also with a strengthened resolve to implement the language mapping process faithfully and effectively. They understood that their role extends beyond teachingโit is about listening, understanding, and empowering every learnerโs voice.
This collective effort marked the beginning of a transformative journey. A journey where every child's language is valued, every voice is heard, and every learner is given the opportunity to thrive.
Photos: Marlyn A. Cabrera
LRM|CID