In an ambitious move to transform education and bolster the emotional well-being of Filipino students, ChildFund Philippines, in partnership with Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Center for Educational Innovation and Technology (SEAMEO INNOTECH), has launched the country’s first localized Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) framework. This innovative initiative is set to resonate deeply with the cultural nuances of Filipino students in public schools, promising to foster holistic development and sustainable community involvement.
A Framework Rooted in Culture
The 2024-2027 SEL program is meticulously designed to reflect the unique cultural heritage of the Philippines. This framework aims to develop adaptable SEL curriculum models tailored to diverse cultural contexts. By engaging communities in the adaptation and implementation process, the program seeks to foster a sense of ownership and sustainability.
“We envisioned a localized approach engaging all stakeholders in the country – teachers, parents, and students,” said Anand Vishwakarma, Country Director of ChildFund Philippines. “This collaborative effort ensures the framework addresses the holistic development of both learners and educators, making it culturally relevant and impactful.”
Nurturing Humanity and Fellowship
Central to the SEL framework is the cultivation of “pagpapakatao” (being humane) and “pakikipagkapwa-tao” (fellowship), essential values that Education Specialist Marlene Floresca of ChildFund Philippines believes will help students become capable and self-trusting individuals. This competency framework equips teachers with the tools to better support students, fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Dr. Leonor Magtolis Briones, Center Director of SEAMEO INNOTECH, emphasized the importance of community involvement. “The success of the SEL framework depends on the active involvement of teachers, along with parents and communities. Their participation ensures that the framework addresses the specific social and emotional needs of both learners and educators,” she said.
Early Development for Long-term Success
Starting SEL skills development early, from kindergarten and potentially even earlier, is crucial for long-term success. Dr. Grace Aguiling-Dalisay, President and CEO of the Center for Educational Measurement, highlighted the importance of assessing SEL skills alongside cognitive skills. “We are working with the education department to integrate these assessments into the SEL framework, ensuring evidence-based progress,” she noted.
From Pilot to Policy
Implementation of the framework will commence this year with a pilot program in select public schools to test its effectiveness. Following this, the framework will be integrated into school-wide practices and policies for students, educators, and non-teaching staff.
The Department of Education (DepEd), part of the technical working group that developed the framework, will endorse SEL modules accessible via an e-learning platform. Teachers and school heads will complete these courses and earn professional development points through the National Educators Academy of the Philippines and the Professional Regulation Commission.
A Pillar of the MATATAG Agenda
The SEL framework supports the DepEd’s MATATAG Agenda: Bansang Makabata, Batang Makabansa, which focuses on promoting the well-being of learners and supporting teachers to perform better. It will be implemented across the K-12 curriculum and expanded to mental health programs in schools nationwide.
“This SEL framework responds to the call for an education system that imparts knowledge and cultivates the social and emotional foundation children need to build their dreams, equipping them beyond what books can teach,” said Dr. Dexter Galban, Assistant Secretary for Operations of the DepEd.
Community Voices
To ensure the framework is truly representative, ChildFund and its partners conducted interviews with K-12 and Alternative Learning System students across various regions, including Metro Manila, Apayao, Negros Occidental, North Cotabato, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. Their insights have been invaluable in shaping a framework that meets the diverse needs of Filipino students.
For those interested in getting involved or learning more about the SEL competency framework, please visit ChildFund Philippines.
Details provided in a recent press release.
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