In a push to modernize teaching approaches, more than 70 educators and staff from Labogon National High School (LNHS) in Mandaue City participated in a comprehensive mid-year training session. The School-Based Mid-Year In-Service Training (INSET) was held on January 16, 2026, at the school gymnasium, running from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Holistic Focus on Modern Classroom Challenges
According to Program Manager Mrs. Milette N. Lampong, the Master Teacher I in English and the school's Learning and Development Coordinator, the activity aimed to unify methods for socio-emotional learning (SEL) to support student well-being. It also sought to leverage digital tools and platforms to improve learning access and participation, while encouraging teachers to reflect on current practices to identify areas for innovation and greater inclusivity.
The training's theme for this year was "Holistic Teaching for a Diverse Generation: Integrating Literacy, Socio-Emotional Learning, and Digital Innovation." This theme guided the discussions and workshops throughout the day.
Expert Speakers Address Key Educational Pillars
A lineup of resource speakers provided insights into critical areas of 21st-century education:
- Dr. Asuncion Balen, Public Schools District Supervisor for the North District Secondary, discussed "Becoming a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Teacher: Knowledge, Skills, Competencies, and Values."
- Mrs. Mariecris Dolino, a Teacher II at LNHS, explored "Rethinking Literacy: Empowering Learners for the 21st Century."
- Mr. Christian Auman, Special Science Teacher I at LNHS, presented on "Digital Innovations for Inclusive and Diverse Classrooms."
- Mrs. Jou Ann Baguio, the school's Special Needs Education (SNED) Coordinator, lectured on "Enhancing Teachers’ Competence in Inclusive Education and the Development of Individualized Education Plans (IEP) for Learners with Special Needs."
Teachers Apply Insights to Real-World Teaching
Participants, including teaching and non-teaching personnel, engaged actively in the sessions. A highlight was a group brainstorming activity where MAPEH (Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health) department teachers formulated responses related to the use of digital platforms.
Ms. Hanna Marie Flores, the newest Teacher I at LNHS, shared her key takeaways. "I learned how important it is to understand each student's abilities, learning styles and methods, as well as to assess their family background," Flores explained. She emphasized that her teaching must now include inclusive teaching strategies to provide all learners with equal opportunities.
The event concluded with the presentation of participant outputs and the distribution of Certificates of Recognition and Participation to the speakers and attendees.
LNHS School Head Mrs. Erlinda Cuyos expressed her gratitude, commending the Program Management Team for their behind-the-scenes diligence and the participants for their active engagement. "May we carry what we have learned today into our classrooms and daily tasks, translating it into genuine improvements in our students' outcomes," Cuyos stated, highlighting the ultimate goal of the training.