DepEd’s Bold Move: Major Overhaul of Anti-Bullying Rules Coming This School Year!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a decisive move to combat the persistent issue of bullying in Philippine schools, the Department of Education (DepEd) has partnered with the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) to revise the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to establish schools as "no-bully zones," ensuring safe and conducive learning environments for all students. 

A Renewed Commitment to Student Welfare

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the need for meticulous monitoring of bullying incidents, noting that despite the law's enactment over a decade ago, not all schools have implemented comprehensive anti-bullying policies. He stated, "We need to be more thorough and diligent in monitoring bullying incidents." 

EDCOM II highlighted the detrimental impact of bullying on students' academic performance, citing studies from De La Salle University and the Philippine Institute of Development Studies. These studies reveal that bullying leads to disengagement and a long-term disinterest in studies, underscoring the urgency of effective intervention. 

Strategic Initiatives and Legislative Support

In 2022, DepEd established the Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO) to provide a platform for victims of bullying and other forms of violence to report incidents. The department has also prioritized hiring guidance counselors and offering mental health support to students and teachers, in line with the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act (RA 11036). 

The collaboration between DepEd and EDCOM II aims to strengthen intervention programs and ensure the availability of guidance counselors and discipline officers in schools. The revised IRR is scheduled for completion before the start of the 2025-2026 school year, following a series of high-level consultations to incorporate findings from EDCOM II's Year 2 Report into the decision-making process. 

Addressing a Persistent Challenge

Bullying remains a significant concern in Philippine schools. The 2018 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) reported that 65% of Filipino students experienced bullying at least a few times a month, the highest rate among participating countries. Although this percentage decreased during the pandemic, recent studies indicate that bullying continues to be a pervasive issue. 

A study by the Philippine Institute of Development Studies revealed that approximately 11,000 15-year-old students were regularly bullied in various forms during the 2021-2022 school year. This highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to address the issue. 

A Unified Effort for Safer Schools

The partnership between DepEd and EDCOM II represents a unified effort to create safer educational environments. By revising the IRR of the Anti-Bullying Act and implementing supportive measures, the government aims to protect students' well-being and foster a culture of respect and inclusivity in schools.

As the revised regulations are set to be implemented in the upcoming school year, stakeholders remain hopeful that these initiatives will lead to a significant reduction in bullying incidents, ensuring that every learner can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

PHLPost Gets a Power Boost! Retired Justice Cruz Re-elected as Chairman – Here’s What’s Next

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a significant move poised to drive the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) into a new era of innovation and service excellence, Retired Justice Stephen Caperiña Cruz has been re-elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors. The oath-taking ceremony, held on February 4, 2025, was graced by esteemed members of the Board, including Hon. Ricardo R. Blancaflor, Hon. Noel V. Dacasin, Postmaster General & CEO Luis D. Carlos, and Hon. Ernesto O. Severino. 

Justice Cruz's reappointment comes at a pivotal time as PHLPost embarks on ambitious projects to modernize and enhance its services. Under his leadership, the corporation is set to amplify its digital transformation initiatives, bolster logistics and delivery operations, and reinforce its essential role in connecting Filipinos both domestically and internationally.

Postmaster General & CEO Luis D. Carlos expressed his confidence in Justice Cruz's leadership, stating, "Justice Cruz's experience and dedication are invaluable to the corporation. His leadership has been instrumental in driving PHLPost forward, and I look forward to working alongside him to ensure we provide efficient and modern postal services to the nation as we pursue good governance." 

In line with its commitment to service enhancement, PHLPost has recently inaugurated a new postal station in Obando, Bulacan, aiming to expand its reach and provide more accessible services to the community. 

Furthermore, the corporation has launched an improved Postal ID, offering enhanced security features and broader acceptance across various institutions. This initiative underscores PHLPost's dedication to adapting to the evolving needs of the public. 

With Justice Cruz at the helm, PHLPost is poised to navigate the challenges of the modern postal and courier industry, ensuring that it remains a vital and innovative service provider for all Filipinos.

A World of Flavour: Indulgent Recipes to Elevate Your Valentine’s Day

 Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a romantic dinner that transports you to the world’s most enchanting culinary destinations. Whether you’re craving the bold spices of Thailand, the decadence of rich chocolate, or the silky sweetness of a butterscotch dessert, you can craft a gourmet experience right from your own kitchen.

Inspired by the diverse dining experiences aboard a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) holiday, James Wierzelewski, Senior Director of Culinary Development & Operations at NCL, presents a trio of indulgent recipes designed to delight the senses and bring global flavors to your Valentine’s celebration.

From the savory-sweet harmony of Thai Cashew Chicken to the luscious Sinful Chocolate Obsession and the velvety Butterscotch Budino, these dishes promise an unforgettable dining experience for you and your loved one.

Thai Cashew Chicken: A Taste of Bangkok

Transport yourself to the bustling streets of Bangkok with this vibrant and flavorful dish, served at Sukhothai, NCL’s first-ever Thai specialty restaurant. The perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors makes this a must-try for your Valentine’s feast.

Ingredients (Serves 5)

For the Chicken

4 cups marinated chicken thighs (see recipe below)

2 cups Thai stir fry sauce (see recipe below)

¾ cup canola oil

25 dried chilis

5 tbsp fresh garlic, minced

1 ¼ cups yellow onion, diced (1-inch)

5 tbsp scallions (green part only, 2-inch cut)

5 tbsp Thai chili paste

¾ cup red bell pepper, diced (1-inch)

¾ cup zucchini, sliced into half-moons (2-inch cut)

¾ cup cashew nuts

¾ cup chicken stock

2 ½ tbsp sesame oil

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and roast the cashews on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.

Heat the oil in a wok over medium heat, then add the dried chilis. Stir continuously until they puff up and turn maroon (about 1 minute). Remove and drain on a paper towel.

Turn the heat to high and add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear for 2 minutes without stirring until browned, then toss and cook until fully cooked through. Remove from the wok.

Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Stir until golden brown, then add the onions and cook for 1 minute.

Turn the heat back to high and add the bell peppers, zucchini, toasted chilis, chicken, Thai stir fry sauce, chicken stock, and Thai chili paste. Toss well for 1 minute until everything is heated through.

Turn off the heat and drizzle sesame oil over the dish. Add scallions and cashews, toss once more, and serve immediately.

Marinated Chicken Thighs

30 oz boneless chicken thighs, diced (½-inch)

⅓ cup Thai soy sauce

1 tbsp sugar

⅓ cup water

Instructions: Combine all ingredients and let the chicken marinate for 1 hour.

Thai Stir Fry Sauce

5 tbsp oyster sauce

2 ½ tbsp Thai soy sauce

1 ½ tbsp golden mountain sauce

1 ½ tbsp fish sauce

1 ½ tbsp granulated sugar

Instructions: Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl and set aside.

Sinful Chocolate Obsession: A Decadent Delight

This rich, indulgent chocolate dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth on Valentine’s Day. Topped with a silky ganache and garnished with nuts and berries, it’s a true showstopper.

Cake Ingredients

7 oz semi-sweet chocolate

3 tbsp butter

3 egg yolks

¼ cup sugar (separated)

3 egg whites

1 tsp rum

½ cup heavy cream

¼ cup toasted almonds, chopped

¼ cup chopped pistachios

Ganache Ingredients

4 oz finely chopped dark chocolate

½ cup heavy cream

Instructions

Melt the chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler.

Whip the egg yolks with half of the sugar until light and fluffy, then fold into the melted chocolate mixture.

In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites with the remaining sugar and rum until soft peaks form. Gently fold into the chocolate mixture.

Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold into the batter along with the toasted almonds and pistachios.

Pipe or spoon the mixture into individual ramekins, cover with a cardboard disk, and freeze until firm.

To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream until simmering, then pour over the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Strain and cool.

Unmold the frozen cakes, plate them with raspberry sauce, vanilla sauce, mint sprigs, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings. Drizzle with ganache before serving.

Butterscotch Budino: The Perfect Sweet Finale

This creamy, whiskey-infused dessert is the ideal ending to a romantic meal, with its deep caramel flavors and silky custard texture.

Ingredients

2 tbsp melted butter

½ cup light brown sugar

1 tbsp Scotch whiskey

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

3 egg yolks

1 whole egg

Instructions

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it reaches a light caramel color, then remove from heat.

Stir in the butter until combined, followed by the Scotch whiskey. Mix well.

In a separate saucepan, heat the cream and milk until just simmering. Remove from heat and let steep, covered, for 30 minutes.

Whisk together the egg yolks and whole egg, then slowly temper in the warm cream mixture.

Strain the mixture and pour into serving glasses or ramekins.

Bake in a 300°F water bath for 20 minutes, rotate, and bake for another 20 minutes until the custard jiggles evenly.

Chill and serve with a scoop of chocolate gelato.

An Unforgettable Valentine’s Feast Awaits

This Valentine’s Day, transform your home into a five-star dining experience with these indulgent recipes inspired by world travel. Whether you’re savoring the spice of Thai Cashew Chicken, the luxurious richness of Sinful Chocolate Obsession, or the silky sweetness of Butterscotch Budino, each bite will take you on a delicious adventure.

So light some candles, set the table, and treat your special someone to an unforgettable evening of love, flavor, and indulgence.

Bon appétit and happy Valentine’s Day!