By Baby Lea C. Divino, PDO II
SBMA, Olongapo City, July 21, 2026 – The Schools Division Office (SDO) of Olongapo City conducted the Reorientation of School Heads on the Implementation of Inclusive Education on July 21, 2026, at the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), reaffirming its commitment to providing equitable and quality education forall learners.
The activity gathered public elementary and secondary school heads, with the guidance of the Education Program Supervisors and District Supervisors, to strengthen their understanding of the legal foundations and policies governing Inclusive Education (IE) and enhance their capacity to effectively implement inclusive programs in their respective schools.
In her message of support, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Ilyne S. Samonte, CESE IV, underscored the vital role of school leaders in ensuring that every learner, regardless of ability or disability, receives quality, inclusive, and learner-centered education. She encouraged school heads and education leaders to champion inclusive practices and work collaboratively in creating learning environments where all learners can thrive.
Delivering an inspirational message, Dr. Imelda P. Macaspac, Schools Division Superintendent, encouraged school heads to embrace inclusive leadership by recognizing the unique strengths and needs of every learner. She emphasized that creating an inclusive school culture requires compassion, collaboration, and a shared commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind. She also inspired participants to lead with empathy, innovation, and dedication to making inclusive education a reality in every school.
Anchored on Republic Act No. 7277 (Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities), Republic Act No. 9442, and relevant Department of Education (DepEd) policies, the reorientation aimed to deepen school leaders’ understanding of Inclusive Education, promote disability sensitivity, strengthen their capacity to implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), foster partnerships with stakeholders, and provide technical assistance in addressing implementation challenges.
Led by Dr. Danilo M. Dela Rosa, Inclusive Education Program Supervisor, the activity opened with a session on the Inclusive Education Legal Framework, emphasizing the responsibilities of school leaders in ensuring policy compliance and promoting inclusive, accessible, and learner-centered schools.
The succeeding sessions featured Paquito A. Figuero, Jr. on Disability Sensitivity Awareness, Dr. Jocelyn Fastidio on Designing and Implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and Dr. Amrah Phil Solano on Forging Partnerships Between Schools and Organizations in Advancing the Education of Learners with Disabilities. Each session provided practical strategies to help school heads effectively support learners with disabilities and special educational needs.
The reorientation concluded with collaborative discussions that enabled participants to share experiences, address implementation concerns, and identify best practices for strengthening Inclusive Education across the division.
Through this initiative, the Schools Division Office of Olongapo City continues to empower school leaders and strengthen its commitment to building inclusive learning environments where every learner is provided with equitable opportunities to learn and succeed.
