DepEd RXII SDO Kidapawan City

SDO Kidapawan City Installs Four PSDSs, strengthens district leadership

KIDAPAWAN CITY — October 5, 2026. The Schools Division Office (SDO) of Kidapawan City formally installed four Public School District Supervisors (PSDSs) during a meaningful ceremony held at the SDO Kidapawan City Lobby.

The activity was graced by Schools Division Superintendent Miguel P. Fillalan, Jr CESO V, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Jasmin P. Isla, Chiefs of the three functional divisions, with school heads from the different districts in attendance.

The newly installed PSDSs were Geoffer Caraballe, District 5 Elementary; Arnel Alcosaba, District 4 Secondary; Alma Agustin, District 2 Secondary; and Glady Pagunsan, District 1 Secondary. Their installation signifies the Department of Education's continuing commitment to strengthening instructional leadership, supervision, and technical assistance at the district level.

The presentation of significant symbols representing the values and responsibilities attached to the supervisory role highlighted the ceremony. EPS Perlas I. Vallez served as the reader for the Bible, symbolizing faith, wisdom, and divine guidance in public service. ASDS Jasmin P. Isla presented the gavel, representing authority, leadership, and responsibility in the exercise of their duties. Chief Ronela S. Molina presented the candle, symbolizing light, guidance, commitment, and the responsibility to inspire schools toward continuous improvement. Chief Marissa T. Bernaldez presented the Philippine Flag, representing patriotism, dedication to public service, and commitment to the nation and Filipino learners.

The installation marks a significant step in strengthening the leadership and support system of SDO Kidapawan City. As PSDSs, Caraballe, Alcosaba, Agustin, and Pagunsan are expected to provide instructional leadership, technical assistance, monitoring, and guidance to school heads and teaching personnel in their respective districts. Their new roles carry the responsibility of helping schools translate DepEd policies and programs into meaningful actions that contribute to improved teaching practices, school performance, and learner outcomes.

The SDO Kidapawan City community welcomed the newly installed supervisors and expressed its support as they begin their journey of service, leadership, and commitment to quality basic education.

✍️📸 EPS Ricky B. Pante, EdD

Kidapawan City Pilot Elementary School Gets a Facelift Through Strong School–Community Partnership

KIDAPAWAN CITY — A renewed and more welcoming learning environment is taking shape at Kidapawan City Pilot Elementary School (KCPES) as the school undertakes a campus beautification and enhancement initiative through a meaningful partnership with the Philippine Army, demonstrating the power of bayanihan in creating a safe, clean, and conducive space for learners.

Spearheaded by Dr. Nelida L. Collados, Master Teacher III, together with the Grade 6 teachers, administrative staff, parents, and other members of the school community, the initiative dubbed “One Heart, One Team Para sa Sinag ng Kalinisan at Kagandahan” focuses on improving the physical environment while fostering a stronger sense of shared responsibility and school pride.

Among the enhancements undertaken were the construction and repair of school garden fences, installation of protective net roofing, and repainting of the tire flower garden, giving portions of the school grounds a more organized, colorful, and learner-friendly atmosphere. The activities were made possible through the hands-on assistance of military personnel who worked alongside the school’s teachers, parents, and staff.

The school expresses its sincere appreciation to LTC Jose Laurel M. Sibullas, CE (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of the 512th Engineer Construction Brigade, Philippine Army, and 2LT Ken D. Kanashiro (SC) PA, Officer-in-Charge of Bravo Company, 72nd Infantry Battalion, for extending their support to the initiative. The school likewise recognizes the valuable contributions of the officers and personnel of the 512th Engineer Construction Brigade, 72nd Infantry Battalion, and 73rd Infantry Battalion, whose time, skills, and service helped turn the school’s beautification efforts into a meaningful reality.

The initiative reflects the Department of Education’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with government agencies, uniformed personnel, parents, and other stakeholders in advancing learner welfare. More than improving the physical appearance of the campus, the collaborative effort demonstrates that when a community comes together with one heart and one purpose, it can create an environment where children feel valued, inspired, and ready to learn.

With the continued spirit of bayanihan and shared responsibility, KCPES remains committed to nurturing a school environment that is safe, beautiful, and conducive to learning—because every learner deserves a place where they can grow, dream, and thrive.

✍️📸 Dr. Nelida L. Collados

BEYOND THE TITLE
Thirty-two years in education can fill a résumé with titles. But for Marlene L. Palma, the real story is not in the positions she has held, but in the lives she has touched.

Teaching was never her first choice. In 1994, inspired by her grandmother, a retired teacher, Marlene earned her degree in Elementary Education and began as a Teacher I. What started as a career slowly became a calling.

Her talents, however, reached far beyond the classroom.
As a teacher, she became a gymnastics coach and later served as a Technical Official in Gymnastics in Region XII. She also found joy in music as a member of the City of Fruits and Highland Spring Chorale and the District III Chorale, and as a drummer of the District III Band.

Her love for music led her to organize the District III Ukulele Ensemble with learners from Lanao Central Elementary School. The group competed and brought home several awards. She also trained learners for dance competitions, helping them develop not only talent but confidence, discipline, and teamwork.

Through sports, music, and dance, Marlene showed that teaching is not confined to books and classrooms. Sometimes, it means helping a child discover what they can do—and giving them the courage to do it.

Her own career continued to grow, from Teacher II, Master Teacher I, Guidance Coordinator, Teacher-in-Charge, Head Teacher III, and Principal I, until she became school head of Isidoro Lonzaga Memorial Elementary School in 2025. Her recent promotion to Principal III under the Expanded Career Progression marks another milestone in a journey shaped by dedication and perseverance.
Her leadership has also earned recognition. In 2022, she was named Outstanding Head at the District and Division levels and placed 3rd in the Region. This year, she was again recognized as Outstanding Principal at the District level and earned 2nd place at the Division level.

These awards speak of her work, but they are only part of the story.
Behind the professional accomplishments is a wife and mother who has faced the everyday demands of family and career. Balancing responsibilities at home and at work was never easy. Busy days, difficult moments, and countless demands competed for her time. Yet she kept moving forward.

She did not simply survive the chaos.
She surpassed it.

Perhaps that is what makes her story meaningful. Her success is not simply about the positions she has earned, but about the people she has encouraged, the talents she has nurtured, and the learners she has helped believe in themselves.

Thirty-two years later, the teacher who once followed her grandmother’s inspiration has become an inspiration to others.

Beyond the title is a teacher at heart.
Beyond the position is a leader who serves.

And beyond the achievements is a woman who proved that with love, perseverance, and purpose, she can carry a family, build a career, and still make a difference.
By: Rosenda T. Hordista, EdD
MT-1
Isidoro Lonzaga MES

SDO Kidapawan City Culminates 126th PCSA Anniversary

The Schools Division of Kidapawan City culminated its month-long celebration of the 126th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) on September 30, 2026, at the Division Lobby, bringing together all SDO personnel in a meaningful celebration of public service, camaraderie, wellness, and appreciation.

The month-long celebration, held from September 1–30, 2026, featured various activities that highlighted the commitment and dedication of government employees. These included the donning of ASEAN-inspired attire, Lingkod Bayani Commitment Wall signing, tree planting, bloodletting, SDS Mike Pickleball Tournament, and other employee-centered activities.

As part of the culminating day, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., SDO personnel enjoyed free pampering and beauty care services, including massage, foot and hand spa, hair and makeup services, haircut, manicure, and pedicure. The services were provided by the talented Senior High School students of Saniel Cruz National High School, giving employees an opportunity to relax and recharge.

The closing program at 3:00 p.m. formally capped the celebration. The program opened with a message from Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Jasmin P. Isla, followed by an inspirational message from Ret. Gen. Randy Peralta. The program also featured the awarding of winners of the SDS Mike Pickleball Tournament, recognition of winners for Best ASEAN Attire and Best Pickleball Attire, the much-awaited raffle draw, and the awarding of certificates of appreciation to the Technical Working Group and partner-stakeholders.

Special recognition was given to the Kidapawan City Blood Center, M Lhuillier Kidapawan Branch, Saniel Cruz National High School, and Kidapawan City National High School for their valuable support. Appreciation was likewise extended to the tournament sponsors: Tagum Cooperative Inc., City Savings Bank, BDO Network Bank, Sophia Jewellery, Glow House, Kanto Kopi, and Ret. Gen. Randy Peralta.

The celebration concluded with the closing remarks of SGOD Chief Marissa T. Bernaldez, emphasizing the value of unity, commitment, and a culture of service among public servants.

The 126th PCSA celebration served not only as a recognition of government service but also as a reminder that public service is strengthened by teamwork, wellness, community partnership, and a shared commitment to serving the Filipino people.

✍️📸 Johannah D. Bantas, JD

SDO Kidapawan Renews Faith, Wellness Through Monthly Eucharistic Celebration

Amid the demands of public education service, personnel of the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Kidapawan City gathered in prayer and reflection as the division held its monthly Eucharistic celebration on September 30 at the Division lobby.

Presided over by Rev. Fr. Desiderio “Jun” Balatero, DCK, the celebration provided division personnel, including school heads and staff, an opportunity to pause from their daily responsibilities, give thanks, and draw renewed strength for their continuing service to learners and communities. This month’s Eucharistic celebration was sponsored by the Curriculum Implementation Division (CID), headed by CID Chief Dr. Ronela S. Molina.

In his homily, Fr. Balatero reflected on the life of Job, highlighting steadfast faith and perseverance amid trials. His message resonated with education personnel who, despite the challenges and demands of their work, are called to remain committed, compassionate, and faithful to their mission of service.

More than a religious observance, the monthly Eucharistic celebration has become a meaningful space for spiritual renewal and personnel wellness. Through prayer, reflection, and fellowship, employees are given time to step back from deadlines and responsibilities, regain perspective, and strengthen the values that guide them in public service.

The gathering also fosters camaraderie among personnel across offices and schools, nurturing a culture of care, humility, integrity, and mutual support—values that contribute to a healthy workplace and, ultimately, to the delivery of quality education.

The SDO Kidapawan family expressed its gratitude to Fr. Jun Balatero for his continued spiritual guidance and to Dr. Molina and the CID for sponsoring this month’s celebration. As the division continues its work for learners, the monthly Eucharist serves as a reminder that a renewed spirit strengthens the heart of service. # # #

📸 CID Chief

SDO Kidapawan City Earns Regional Recognition for Healthy Learning Institutions Program

KIDAPAWAN CITY — The Schools Division of Kidapawan City strengthened its commitment to advancing learner health and well-being as Kidapawan City Pilot Elementary School (KCPES) earned a Very Satisfactory rating in the 2026 Regional Healthy Learning Institutions (HLI) Validation, making it the division’s first school entry under the HLI Program – Basic Education, School Category.

The recognition was formally conferred during the Regional Awarding Ceremony for Healthy Learning Institutions held on September 29, 2026, at The Farm @ Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City. KCPES received a Plaque of Recognition for its “exemplary performance, commitment, and sustained efforts” in promoting Healthy Learning Institutions initiatives in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region. Following the regional validation conducted on September 3, the school was also certified as a Healthy Learning Institution for two years.

Adding to the division’s recognition, the Schools Division Office – Kidapawan City received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Department of Health SOCCSKSARGEN Center for Health Development for its “invaluable contribution, active participation, and unwavering support” in the implementation of the Oplan Kalusugan sa DepEd – Healthy Learning Institutions Program.

The accomplishment was made possible through the collaborative efforts of OKD-HLI Focal Person Dr. Exequil P. Dimaano, Alternate Focal Person Kristoffer Jon S. Dimaano, KCPES Principal IV Marivic Tubo, and School Coordinator Jenny L. Lumantao, whose collective efforts helped advance the division’s HLI initiatives.

The recognition underscores SDO Kidapawan City’s continuing commitment to creating schools that nurture not only academic learning but also the health, safety, well-being, and holistic development of every learner. # # #

✍️📸 EPS Perlas I. Valles, EdD

Congratulations to the winners👏👏👏

Japan Grant Brings New Learning Space Closer to GIDA Learners in Kidapawan

KIDAPAWAN CITY — Learners of Datu Umpan IP School in Purok Pag-asa, Barangay Balabag are set to benefit from a new classroom building following its formal turnover through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects (GGP) of the Consulate General of Japan in Davao on September 28, 2026.

The project marks another milestone for the Schools Division of Kidapawan City as it continues to strengthen learning environments for children in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA). More than an infrastructure project, the new classroom reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that learners in Indigenous Peoples communities have access to safe, appropriate, and conducive spaces where they can learn, grow, discover their potential, and thrive.

SDS Miguel P. Fillalan Jr., CESO V expressed his appreciation to the Government of Japan and the Consulate General of Japan in Davao for extending its support to Datu Umpan IP School. He underscored the value of strong partnerships in helping the Division address the pressing needs of schools, particularly those serving learners in GIDA communities. He emphasized that every partnership becomes more meaningful when it translates into concrete interventions that improve the learning experiences and opportunities of children, especially those in communities that face greater challenges in accessing adequate school facilities.

Meanwhile, Consul General Ono Hirotaka highlighted the significance of the GGP in supporting grassroots communities and creating better opportunities for children through improved educational facilities. He conveyed that the newly constructed classroom is not only a physical structure but also a space where learners can experience laughter, friendship, discovery, and the development of their talents. He further emphasized that initiatives such as this demonstrate the strong and enduring friendship between Japan and the Philippines, noting that meaningful friendship can begin at the grassroots level and contribute to peace, prosperity, and community development. The Consul General also underscored the importance of providing children with spaces where they can learn, grow, and be nurtured.

The ribbon-cutting and unveiling of the brass marker were witnessed by representatives from the Consulate of Japan, Department of Education, the City Government and Barangay Local Government Unit, Mindanao Children’s Library Foundation (MCL) officials, community stakeholders, teachers, parents, and other members of the school community.

The turnover further underscores SDO Kidapawan’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with government agencies, international organizations, local stakeholders, and communities in addressing school needs. For the learners of Datu Umpan IP School, the new classroom is more than a building—it is a space for learning, hope, friendship, discovery, and possibilities, bringing the promise of a better educational experience closer to children in a GIDA Community. # # #

✍️GE Pagunsan
📸SDS Mike

Teacher, Ikaw Naman!
Beauty Beyond Personal Struggles
The Heart of Ma’am Jundee

In a world where people are often judged by their appearance, one teacher from Kidapawan City continues to prove that beauty is not defined by what the eyes can see. For Ma’am Jundelyn B. Sato, true beauty is found in courage, determination, skill, and the willingness to serve others.

At 30, Ma’am Jundee is a Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) teacher at Nuangan Integrated School Junior High School. This school year, she also serves as a class adviser, giving her more opportunities to guide learners not only in their studies but also in their personal growth. She was also a TESDA Beauty Care trainer and previously served as an ARAL Program tutor.

Her journey, however, has never been without challenges.
At the age of seven, Ma’am Jundee was diagnosed with Fibrous Dysplasia, a medical condition that affects the bones and caused changes in the shape of her face. Growing up with the condition was not easy. There were moments when she questioned her parents about why she had to experience such a condition.

There were also times when she felt the presence of secret eyes laughing at her. The feeling of being watched and judged made her increasingly aware of how different she appeared from others. For a young girl still trying to understand herself, those experiences were difficult to carry.

As she grew older, the questions became deeper. She experienced depression and reached moments when she questioned why she existed and what purpose her life held. Behind the confident educator her students know today was once a child searching for acceptance and trying to understand why life had given her a different path.

But those questions did not become the final chapter of her story.
Ma’am Jundee pursued her education and graduated with a Bachelor of Technical Teacher Education from the University of Southern Mindanao in April 2016. Her passion for teaching and skills in beauty care eventually led her to become a TESDA Beauty Care instructor.

Yet another challenge awaited her.
Her appearance became a reason for some students to doubt her ability to teach. Rather than answering their doubts with words, Ma’am Jundee responded through her skills. Through confident demonstrations, she showed that beauty care requires creativity, knowledge, discipline, and skill.

“At first, some students did not believe that I could be their beauty care teacher because of my condition. But I showed them my skills and proved that beauty care is not just about looks,” Ma’am Jundee shared.

Her dedication extends beyond beauty care. Last year, she served as a Grade 1 tutor under the ARAL Program, assisting learners who struggled with reading, writing, and basic skills. She listened to her pupils, praised their efforts, and celebrated their progress.

She sometimes gave chocolates and school supplies as simple rewards, but more importantly, she gave encouragement. She reminded her learners that the ARAL Program was not a punishment but an opportunity to receive support, improve, and regain confidence.

Now, as a class adviser and TLE teacher, she continues to build meaningful relationships with her learners. She pays attention not only to academic performance but also to their needs, aspirations, and concerns. In her classroom, mistakes become lessons and small achievements become reasons to keep going.

Having experienced judgment because of her appearance, she understands the importance of making learners feel accepted and capable.

“I want to be a living testament that personal struggles can be personal fuel to continue in life and make others believe that everything is possible,” she added.
Her words are reflected in her journey. The questions she once raised about her existence and purpose eventually found answers not in appearance, but in the lives she touches and the learners she helps move forward.

Ma’am Jundee’s story is not simply about living with a condition. It is about finding meaning after years of questioning her place in the world and choosing to transform painful experiences into compassion for others.

The eyes that once made her feel different no longer define how she sees herself. Today, she stands before her learners not as someone defeated by the past, but as someone who has found purpose in helping others discover their own worth.

The world may notice the face she was born with, but her students will remember the hands that taught them, the voice that encouraged them, and the heart that refused to let her darkest questions write the ending of her story.

For Ma’am Jundee, perhaps the greatest answer to “Why am I here?” is found in every learner who walks away from her classroom believing, even a little more, that they can.