PCOO assists DepEd on blended learning materials

MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) has offered to produce the learning videos for blended learning which will be implemented by the Department of Education (DepEd) as part of adjusting to the situation under the coronavirus disease 2019 or COVID-19 pandemic.

PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar before the weekend said the agency is ready to assist the DepEd on the production of the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCs) output and video materials for 18 million learners expected to resume their studies by Aug. 24.

Andanar underscored the role of the PCOO in addressing the priorities of the government after schools decided to implement blended learning strategy for the upcoming school year because of the COVID-19 crisis.

Government-owned television network IBC-13 and Philippine Broadcasting Services (PBS) could be tapped in airing the learning materials to reach students in farflung areas with no internet signal, said Andanar.

“This recommended participation is aimed at converting the K-12 program and curriculum lessons of DepEd into materials which will be managed, produced, covered and distributed by the IBC-13 and PBS, for the consumption of our students throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.

“Moreover, DepEd teachers will be trained by IBC-13 and PBS as broadcasters/actors and editors in this proposed endeavor,” Andanar said.

He proposed that IBC-13 and PBS would supervise the production management, post-production, network re-branding (station IDs, OBB/CBB of shows) and the distribution of programs to other TV and radio stations.

Andanar said he also sees the need to link up with cable operators nationwide and to use the power of the internet to reach at least 18 million public school learners.

The PCOO also hopes to maximize the use of official websites, social media accounts and YouTube channels.

“While this proposed assistance remains a pending recommendation to DepEd, our overall commitment to contribute to our nation’s collective development, especially to that of our youth and our students, in this time of pandemic remains resolute and unwavering as we continue to fight COVID-19 and to heal as one nation,” Andanar said.