DepEd RXII SDO Kidapawan City

03/09/2026

SDO KIDAPAWAN CITY JOINS NATIONWIDE SCHOOL SAFETY DRILL ON ACTIVE ATTACK PREPAREDNESS

Schools across the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Kidapawan City actively participated in the Nationwide Simultaneous School Safety Drill for Active Attack Incidents on September 3, 2026, strengthening their preparedness and response mechanisms to ensure the safety and well-being of learners and school personnel.

The division-wide activity brought together public and private schools, with the active support and participation of the Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), School Governing Councils (SGCs), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), City Government, and Barangay Local Government Units (LGUs).

The conduct of the drill was anchored on the Department of Education’s commitment to maintaining safe, secure, and resilient learning environments, particularly in preparing schools for possible active attack incidents.

In SDO Kidapawan City, schools activated their School Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (SDRRM) Teams and implemented their localized contingency plans, including the designation of safe areas, evacuation routes, emergency communication procedures, and other preparedness measures.

Schools also coordinated closely with external partners and invited representatives from emergency response agencies and stakeholders to observe the drill and provide recommendations for improving school safety and emergency preparedness.

Schools Division Superintendent Miguel P. Fillalan Jr., CESO V, commended the schools for their religious and responsible conduct of the safety drill, as well as the strong support extended by the division’s external partners.

He emphasized that the active participation of stakeholders demonstrates the importance of a whole-community approach to school safety, where schools, families, government agencies, and local communities work together to protect learners.

The post-evaluation of the activity likewise provided schools with an opportunity to identify areas that need further strengthening. Among the key areas for enhancement were the clarity and speed of emergency communication, familiarity with designated safe spaces and evacuation routes, coordination among school response teams and external responders, classroom security measures, and the continuous updating and localization of school contingency plans.

These findings will serve as inputs in further improving school safety protocols and strengthening the readiness of school personnel and stakeholders for coordinated emergency response.

The SDO Kidapawan City also reiterated that safety drills must remain age-appropriate, trauma-informed, and focused on preparedness, protective actions, coordinated response, and post-incident recovery, with the psychological well-being of learners and personnel given utmost priority.

Through the sustained collaboration of schools and their partners, the division continues to strengthen a culture of preparedness and shared responsibilities, ensuring that every school remains a safe, secure, and resilient place for every learner.

Text and Photos: Maiko Rosed M. Trojillo, Division DRRM Officer

03/09/2026

SDO KIDAPAWAN TO RECEIVE FINED UNBOXED INITIATIVE

Schools Division Office (SDO) of Kidapawan City is set to become the next site and recipient of the FinEd Unboxed Video Lesson Launch and Knowledge Channel TV initiative following the announcement made by Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. Vice President Edric Calma during the launch held at Garden Orchid Hotel, Zamboanga City, September 3.

Representing Schools Division Superintendent Miguel P. Fillalan Jr., CESO V, were Atrene Vergara-Lonzaga, Assistant to the Principal for Senior High School of Kidapawan City National High School, and Sharon L. Gondales, Master Teacher I and Mathematics Department Head of the Junior High School.

The initiative, made possible through the partnership of Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. and BPI Foundation, Inc., aims to expand access to innovative educational resources and strengthen financial education among Filipino learners.

The announcement of Kidapawan City as the next launch site marks another opportunity for the division to enhance digital learning and provide learners with relevant and quality educational resources.

Text and Photos: Atrene V. Lonzaga and Sharon S. Gondales

03/09/2026

01/09/2026

SDO Kidapawan Personnel Join Cotabato Kalivungan 2026 Culmination Program

KIDAPAWAN CITY — Personnel from the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Kidapawan City led by SDS Miguel P. Fillalan Jr, CESO V participated in the Culmination Program of Cotabato Kalivungan 2026, held on September 1 at The Basket, Capitol Compound, Amas, Kidapawan City, as part of the celebration of the 112th Foundation Anniversary of the Province of Cotabato.

The program gathered national, provincial, and local leaders, headed by Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza, MNSA, with Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rexlon T. Gatchalian, represented by Undersecretary Fatima Aleah Q. Dimaporo serving as the Guest of Honor and Speaker. Also present were Vice Governor Rochella Marie “Ella” Taliño Taray, Representatives Edwin Ledesma Cruzado and Ma. Alana Samantha Taliño Santos, and other distinguished guests.

As a committed partner of the Provincial Government of Cotabato, SDO Kidapawan City joined the celebration in support of initiatives that promote culture, unity, and community development. The participation of the division underscored its continuing collaboration with local government units and stakeholders in advancing programs that benefit learners, schools, and communities.

Aside from attending the formal program, SDO personnel also had the opportunity to visit the various exhibit booths featuring the rich cultural heritage, agricultural products, local industries, and abundant harvests of North Cotabato. The exhibits highlighted the province’s diverse traditions, artistry, and economic strengths, providing participants with a deeper appreciation of Cotabato’s identity and progress.

Anchored on the theme, “Cotabato @112: A Legacy of Peace, Progress and Unity,” the celebration served as a meaningful reminder of the shared responsibility of government agencies, partners, and communities in preserving cultural heritage while working together toward sustainable development and inclusive growth. # # #

Text:GE Pagunsan
Photos: GE Pagunsan/SDS Mike

29/08/2026

DEPED KIDAPAWAN CITY HONORS PSDS LILIAN Q. MAGNO IN A CELEBRATION OF 38 YEARS OF SERVICE AND LEGACY

After more than 38 years of dedicated service in the Department of Education, serving in various capacities and designations, Public Schools District Supervisor (PSDS) Lilian Q. Magno was honored by the Schools Division Office of Kidapawan City in a heartfelt Mabuhay, Pasasalamat Program, celebrating a remarkable journey of public service, leadership, mentorship, and friendship at The Park-Lay Suites, Kidapawan City, August 28.

The gathering brought together members of the DepEd Kidapawan City family, school heads, colleagues, friends, and loved ones of the honoree in an afternoon filled with gratitude, cherished memories, and heartfelt tributes to a woman whose professional journey has touched countless lives and contributed to the growth of education in the Division.

The program opened with an audio-visual presentation, followed by the welcome remarks of Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Jasmin P. Isla and statement of purpose of Legal Officer III Atty. Janice Caraballe setting a warm and meaningful tone for the celebration.

One of the highlights of the occasion was the entrance of PSDS Magno together with her family, as colleagues and friends warmly welcomed the honoree who has shared with them decades of service in education.

Meanwhile, Karl Lawrence A. Magno, recognized the members of the honoree’s family circle, friends, and distinguished guests who came to share in the special occasion and celebrate this important milestone with her.

A glimpse into the life and journey of the honoree was shared through the reading of her biography Education Program Supervisor Dr. Cheryl I. Cerias.

Messages of appreciation and tribute followed, beginning with her childhood friend, Mrs. Gloria A. Mercado, who shared beautiful memories with her.

Dr. Madonna M. Along, Education Program Supervisor, who represented the honoree’s colleagues and also shared reflections on their years of working together in the service of education.

Dr. Ronela S. Molina, Chief Education Supervisor of the Curriculum and Instruction Division (CID), also delivered a heartfelt message, speaking not only as a colleague and supervisor but also as a friend. Her message reflected the deep respect and appreciation of the CID family for PSDS Magno’s contributions and the relationships she has built throughout her career.

Adding a personal and touching dimension to the celebration was the special message of her son, Brent Andrew Q. Magno, Registered Criminologist, whose words served as a reminder that behind every successful public servant is a family that shares in the sacrifices, supports every journey, and celebrates every milestone.

Schools Division Superintendent Miguel P. Fillalan Jr., CESO V, also shared an inspiring message, underscoring the Division’s profound respect and gratitude for PSDS Magno’s years of dedicated public service. He recognized her commitment to education and the meaningful legacy she leaves behind after more than three decades of service.

The celebration continued with a ceremonial toast, which honored not only the accomplishments of the honoree but also the friendships, partnerships, and relationships she nurtured through the years.

Gift-giving and photo opportunities followed, with the different districts and functional divisions taking turns in expressing their love, gratitude, and appreciation for a colleague and leader who had become part of their professional and personal journeys.

True to the joyful spirit of the celebration, the CID Family also presented special intermission numbers, bringing entertainment, laughter, and fun to the occasion and adding more color to an already memorable gathering.

In her response message, a light-hearted PSDS Lilian Q. Magno shared her reflections and heartfelt gratitude to the people who became part of her professional journey. She looked back on the experiences, challenges, friendships, and lessons that shaped her throughout her more than 38 years in the Department of Education.

The program concluded with closing remarks from Ryan P. Tampus, Senior Education Program Specialist in Social Mobilization, who left the gathering with a meaningful reminder that while positions, assignments, and chapters in one’s career may eventually change, the legacy of a dedicated educator lives on in the people, schools, and communities he or she has served.

More than a celebration of a career milestone, the Mabuhay, Pasasalamat Program became a beautiful testimony to the kind of leader, mentor, colleague, and friend that PSDS Lilian Q. Magno has been to the DepEd Kidapawan City family. # # #

Text and Photos: GE Pagunsan

28/08/2026

The Schools Division of Kidapawan City hosted the first ever Regional Learning Exchange Towards Transformative Education Governance last August 26, 2026 with an opening program at the SDO Conference Room. The learning exchange was geared at understanding, sharing and uncovering School Governance best practices from the selected schools of Kidapawan City to the seven (7) other division offices of SOCCSKSARGEN Region.

Present during the one whole day activity were the proponents for the program from the Regional Office, OIC-FTAD Chief Agney C. Taruc and EPS Judie Dela Cruz. Also present were the ASDS Jasmin P. Isla and SGOD Chief Marissa T. Bernaldez who warmly welcomed the participants to the activity.

The Division Focal Person, Mira Rose F. Rulona, SEPS for SMME together with the Division Technical Working Group accompanied the participants to Linangkob National High School and Mateo Elementary School. The school and community stakeholders headed by the respective school heads and their School Governance Council Chairpersons facilitated the presentation of best practices which were applauded by the participants.

25/08/2026

FROM POLICY TO PRACTICE:

SDO Kidapawan School Leaders Cap Two-Day Learning Systems Reform Orientation

KIDAPAWAN CITY — Armed with deeper policy understanding and a stronger commitment to translate reforms into meaningful school-level action, the Curriculum Implementation Division (CID) headed by Dr. Ronela S. Molina successfully concluded the two-day Orientation on the Learning Systems Reform Policies for School Heads on August 25, 2026, at the Bulwagang Pag-asa, Division Training Center (DTC), Lanao, Kidapawan City.

The activity brought together public and private elementary and secondary school heads, Education Program Supervisors (EPSs), and Public Schools District Supervisors (PSDSs) in a concerted effort to strengthen understanding of the Department of Education's latest reform policies and their implications for school leadership, curriculum implementation, instructional delivery, assessment, learner support, and school governance.

Two Days of Learning, Dialogue, and Reform

The first day laid the foundation for the orientation through a dynamic Fishbowl Discussion, which provided school leaders and supervisors an opportunity to openly exchange perspectives, clarify concerns, and connect emerging DepEd policies with actual school realities.

This was followed by a series of focused discussions on major reform policies covering the Three-Term School Calendar, Learning Continuity in Emergencies, ARAL and Special Curricular Programs, revised classroom assessment and grading, and lesson planning. Together, the sessions highlighted how recent policy directions are reshaping both instructional leadership and the delivery of basic education.

Building on the momentum of Day 1, the second and final day broadened the conversation from policy understanding to the systems, programs, resources, and data mechanisms needed to make reforms work on the ground.

Antonio R. Pasigado, Education Program Supervisor, opened the day's substantive discussions with a session on the Strengthened Senior High School, providing participants with important perspectives on the continuing reforms affecting secondary education.

The orientation likewise placed emphasis on the availability and utilization of learning resources, discussed by Dr. Hazel G. Aparece, Education Program Supervisor, underscoring the importance of ensuring that appropriate learning resources reach classrooms and are effectively used to support quality instruction.

The diversity and inclusivity of basic education also took center stage through discussions on the Alternative Learning System (ALS), Special Needs Education (SNED), Multigrade Education, Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd), and Madrasah Education, facilitated by Dr. Ma. Rosalyn F. Garcia together with Public Schools District Supervisors Vic Capilitan and Arnel Cipriano.

Complementing the curriculum-focused sessions was an update on the Learner Information System (LIS) for the Beginning of School Year 2026–2027, presented by Naima A. Abrazado, CPA, Planning Officer, reinforcing the importance of accurate, timely, and reliable learner information in planning and decision-making.

The final day also brought participants into a hands-on session on the utilization of the KCD Portal for data management, facilitated by Reynante A. Naral, Education Program Supervisor. The workshop emphasized the value of efficient data management in strengthening monitoring, reporting, and evidence-informed decision-making across schools.

Reform Begins Where Leadership Acts

Across the two-day orientation, one message remained clear: education reform becomes meaningful only when policy is transformed into practice.

From curriculum and assessment to learning continuity, inclusive education, resource utilization, information systems, and data management, the orientation equipped school leaders with a more integrated understanding of how the different components of the Learning Systems Reform agenda connect with their everyday responsibilities.

More importantly, the activity reinforced the crucial position of school heads as instructional leaders and frontline drivers of reform. Their role extends beyond compliance with new policies. They are expected to lead their teachers in understanding change, contextualize national directions according to school realities, address implementation challenges, and ensure that reforms ultimately result in better learning experiences and outcomes for learners.

As the two-day undertaking came to a close, participants carried with them not simply a collection of new policies and guidelines, but a shared responsibility to bring these reforms to life in their respective schools.

With school leaders better informed, supervisors working alongside them, and a division united behind a common direction, SDO Kidapawan City moves forward from policy awareness to purposeful action, turning learning systems reform into stronger schools, more responsive instruction, and better opportunities for every learner.

Text and Photos: Dr. Ricky B. Pante