The Department of Education (DepEd) in Dumaguete began a weeklong orientation and familiarization activity called “opening block”, as public schools across the country opened the academic year 2026-2027 June 8.
DepEd-Dumaguete assistant superintendent Juditha Mapue told the Philippine News Agency that the first week of classes will focus on activities that will help learners familiarize themselves with the new trimester and get acquainted with their school surroundings.
“This year, the DepEd will implement a trimester schedule and has planned numerous activities for students to familiarize themselves with and orient on the new schedule as well as feel comfortable in the school environment,” Mapue said.
“There will be no pressure on lessons yet this week, but DepEd requires students to watch films on anti-bullying in response to some alleged incidents in the past,” she added.
The DepEd Division of Negros Oriental also conducted a series of school monitoring visits to ensure the smooth and orderly start of classes in selected districts.
The monitoring team visited the Dauin National High School, Zamboanguita Central Elementary School, Jose Marie Locsin Memorial High School, Candugay High School, and Felipe Tayko Memorial School.
The visit was aimed at assessing the preparedness of schools in implementing the opening block activities, and ensuring that teaching and learning processes were effectively initiated on the first day of classes.
Leading the monitoring team was schools’ division superintendent Neri Ojastro, with assistant SDS Romel Victor Villahermosa and Ernesto Alas-as Jr. and key education officials.
Ojastro observed classroom instruction, reviewed class programs, and assessed the readiness of teachers and learners. He emphasized the importance of creating a conducive and inclusive learning environment, especially at the start of the academic year when students are re-adjusting to school routines, the DepEd NegOr said in a press release.
He also provided technical assistance and constructive feedback to school heads and teachers, highlighting the best practices and offering recommendations to further improve instructional delivery and classroom management.
The monitoring demonstrated the Division’s commitment to providing comprehensive support and guidance to schools, especially during critical transition periods, like the opening block.
Mapue, meanwhile, noted that the first day of classes was generally peaceful, with police officers helping school officials uphold order.
The DepEd Dumaguete Division is also expecting that the enrollment rate, currently at 22,000 learners, will increase to 25,000 as schools are still accepting late enrollees and transferees.
The police in Negros Oriental also reported no significant incident was reported during the opening of classes.
Capt. Stephen Jay Polinar, spokesperson for the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, said there are no assistance desks in schools, but uniformed officers visit schools while mobile patrols frequently check on surroundings. ||
