Republic of the Philippines

Philippine National School for the Blind

Schools Division Office - Pasay City

Intramurals 2025 Lights Up Pasay’s Special Schools With a Celebration of Strength and Inclusivity – 09 September 2025 – The Cluster 5 Meet Intramurals 2025, held on September 5–6 at P. Villanueva Elementary School and the Philippine National School for the Blind (PNSB), brought together learners from PNSB, the Philippine School for the Deaf, and the Pasay SPED Center for two days of spirited competition and joyful participation. The event aimed to promote fitness, teamwork, and inclusivity, giving every learner—whether athletic, visually impaired, deaf, or with other special needs—an opportunity to shine. The opening ceremony set an inspiring tone with a vibrant parade and performances led by the PNSB Glee Club. School officials and city leaders delivered uplifting messages before student-athletes lit the ceremonial torch, symbolizing perseverance and unity across the three institutions. The Oath of Sportsmanship and the Oath of Officiating Officials followed, emphasizing fairness, discipline, and respect throughout the games. Day 1 featured simultaneous activities such as fun games, 3-on-3 basketball, athletics, chess, and eSports. Learners enjoyed both competitive and adaptive events—including piñata, balloon relays, shot put, long jump, and running—while visually impaired and blind participants engaged in specialized games like Zero Hour Assault, guided running, and tactile chess. Despite bouts of rain, students remained determined to compete, showing the event’s true spirit of resilience. Day 2 continued the chess matches, categorized by skill level and gender, with winners emerging from both boys’ and girls’ divisions. The much-anticipated goalball tournament also took center stage, highlighting the exceptional teamwork, balance, and communication skills of blind athletes. Team C dominated the boys’ category, while Team A claimed the championship among the girls. The official awarding ceremony is set for September 8, where Team A will be honored as the overall champion of this year’s intramurals. Beyond medals and trophies, the event succeeded in its mission: to build confidence, foster camaraderie, and celebrate the abilities of every learner. With the support of teachers, coaches, parents, and the entire school community, the 2025 Intramurals stood as a powerful reminder that sports can uplift, unite, and empower.

Science and Math Month 2025 Ignites Curiosity and Innovation at the Philippine National School for the Blind – 08 Agosto 2025 – Excitement echoed through the halls of the Philippine National School for the Blind as learners, teachers, and staff came together for a month-long celebration that proved one inspiring truth: when learning is made accessible, every student can shine in the world of Science and Mathematics. Throughout September 2025, the school proudly marked the annual Science and Math Month with the theme “Siyensya at Matematika: Tanglaw sa Madilim na Landas ng Kinabukasan,” emphasizing that scientific discovery and mathematical reasoning remain powerful tools of empowerment for learners with visual impairment. The celebration featured activities that blended auditory, tactile, and experiential learning—ensuring that every student could explore, experiment, and excel regardless of visual challenges. The month formally opened on September 8 with a vibrant kick-off program at the covered court, where learners enthusiastically participated in interactive Science and Math trivia. Weekly trivia sessions continued after each Monday flag ceremony, turning routine mornings into moments of inquiry and excitement. On September 12, simultaneous film showings across grade levels provided opportunities for students to explore scientific themes through movies enhanced with audio description, making complex concepts engaging and accessible. One of the most anticipated activities, the Science and Math Quiz Bee held on September 17, brought elementary and high school learners together in a friendly competition that highlighted their growing mastery of problem-solving skills. Using auditory prompts and tactile tools, contestants demonstrated remarkable confidence as they tackled challenging questions in front of their peers. Creativity took center stage on September 30 during the Science and Math Jingle and Rap Contest, where students transformed formulas, scientific ideas, and mathematical concepts into lively performances. The same day, the Math and Science Booth Challenge further energized the community. Learners visited booths featuring hands-on experiments such as the Color-Changing Mix, Paper Tower Challenge, Sudoku Challenge, and “How Many Triangles?” puzzle. These activities encouraged inquiry, collaboration, and real-world application of classroom lessons. The event also included exciting demonstrations by Sir Gerry Campo, whose experiments added an element of wonder and discovery to the celebration. The culminating program and awarding ceremony honored outstanding participants, recognizing the effort, enthusiasm, and teamwork that defined the entire month. More importantly, the event affirmed the school’s mission to provide inclusive, equitable, and meaningful learning experiences in Science and Mathematics. The dedication of teachers, staff, and coordinators ensured that every learner—regardless of ability—had the opportunity to explore, compete, and succeed. With the success of this year’s observance, the Science and Math Month 2025–2026 stands as a testament to the potential of learners with visual impairment when supported with adaptive tools, creative strategies, and a community that believes in their brilliance. The celebration not only enriched students’ academic skills but also inspired confidence, curiosity, and a deeper love for lifelong learning.

PNSB, Pormal na Binuksan ang Pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wika 2025 – 05 Agosto 2025 – Pasay City — Masiglang sinalubong ng Philippine National School for the Blind (PNSB) ang unang Lunes ng Agosto sa pamamagitan ng pambungad na programa para sa Buwan ng Wika 2025 na may temang “Paglinang sa Filipino at Katutubong Wika: Makasaysayan sa Pagkakaisa ng Bansa.” Ginanap ang programa sa school covered court matapos ang flag ceremony, kung saan dumalo ang mga mag-aaral, guro, non-teaching staff, at mga magulang — karamihan ay nakasuot ng makukulay na kasuotang Pilipino.   Pormal na sinimulan ang programa sa pambungad na mensahe ni Mr. Ronald Manguiat, Master Teacher I, na nagbigay-diin sa kahalagahan ng paggamit at pagpapayabong ng wikang Filipino at katutubong wika. Ang programa ay naging pagkakataon para sa lahat na ipakita ang kanilang kasuotang Pilipino. Isa-isang binigyang-pansin ang mga kalahok habang ipinapaliwanag nila ang disenyo at kasaysayan ng kanilang kasuotan, kaya’t ang simpleng pagrampa ay naging makabuluhang pagtalakay sa ating kultura.   Sa parehong araw, isinagawa rin ang panunumpa ng bagong halal na mga opisyal ng School Parent-Teacher Association (SPTA) na pinangunahan ng bagong Tagapangulo na si G. Edson Adorable. Pinangunahan ni Dr. Pablo ang panunumpa bilang pagsuporta sa opisyal na simula ng kanilang tungkulin. Bilang paunang ambag, naghandog ang GPTA ng Braille Bible Storybook — isang aklat na magagamit ng mga batang nagsisimula pa lamang magbasa sa Braille habang natututo ng mga kwento mula sa Bibliya.   Kasunod nito, inilahad ni Dr. Pablo ang kanyang kauna-unahang State of the School Address (SOSA) kung saan ibinahagi niya ang mga pangunahing tagumpay, hamon, at mga plano ng paaralan. Ayon sa ulat, patuloy ang pagtaas ng bilang ng mga mag-aaral, gayundin ang pagkakaroon ng learning materials—bagaman may kakulangan sa accessible formats, ito ay naaksyunan sa pamamagitan ng pagtutulungan ng paaralan at mga katuwang mula sa pribadong sektor. Ipinagmalaki rin ang mga pagkilalang natanggap ng paaralan sa larangan ng sports, tulad ng mga medalya sa Palarong Pambansa at SNED Expo, pati na ang pagiging kampeon sa RAPID Math Assessment. Ipinahayag rin ni Dr. Pablo ang 100% completion rate ng mga mag-aaral, ang pagtaas ng reading levels, at ang suporta ng LGU sa mga proyekto sa sports, sining, at akademikong pag-unlad.   Sa pagtatapos ng kanyang mensahe, binigyang-diin ni Dr. Pablo na sa PNSB, ang mga mag-aaral ay hindi lamang tinuturuan na magbasa gamit ang Braille o gumamit ng baston; sila rin ay hinuhubog upang mangarap, manindigan, at magtagumpay. Aniya, “Habang patuloy nating binubuo ang isang inklusibo, makatarungan, at maunlad na paaralan para sa lahat, tangan natin ang paniniwala na kung saan nagtatapos ang paningin, doon nagsisimula ang tunay na hangarin.”   Isinara ang programa sa taos-pusong pasasalamat ni Gng. Janice Villaro, Administrative Officer IV, sa lahat ng masigasig na lumahok sa nasabing gawain, pati na rin sa lupon ng mga guro sa asignaturang Filipino sa pangunguna ni G. Reymart Abante para sa matagumpay na paglulunsad ng pagdiriwang. Hinikayat rin niya ang lahat na aktibong makibahagi sa iba pang mga nakahanay na aktibidad ngayong buwan, at muling pinatunayang ang kapansanan ay hindi kailanman hadlang sa talino, damdamin, at galing sa paggamit ng wika.

Brigada Eskwela 2024 Transforms PNSB Campus Through Community Spirit and Shared Purpose – 27 July 2024 – The Philippine National School for the Blind came alive with energy and bayanihan as volunteers, parents, alumni, and partners joined forces for Brigada Eskwela 2024—a week-long effort that turned simple acts of service into meaningful transformation for the school community. Held from July 22 to 27, the annual activity showcased the unwavering commitment of stakeholders who generously dedicated their time, skills, and resources to prepare a safe, clean, and inspiring learning environment for all learners. This year’s Brigada Eskwela began with thorough planning sessions involving the school administration, teachers, and parent volunteers. These early meetings laid the foundation for a smooth and organized implementation, ensuring that tasks—from cleaning to repairs—were aligned with the school’s needs and goals. Throughout the week, volunteers worked hand in hand to deep-clean classrooms, paint walls, fix furniture, and restore learning spaces to optimal condition. The repainting of hallways, cleaning of comfort rooms, and grooming of school grounds exemplified the community’s shared devotion to uplift the school environment. Major improvements also extended beyond routine cleaning. Plumbing and electrical fixtures received necessary repairs, while landscaping activities such as tree pruning, lawn maintenance, and flower planting added vibrance to the surroundings. The installation of trash bins and the organization of waste disposal areas reinforced the school’s advocacy for environmental responsibility—one of the key messages promoted during the week. One of the highlights of Brigada Eskwela 2024 was the remarkable community support it garnered. A total of 251 volunteers participated—including parents, BJMP officers, PICE laborers, and Premiere 3 stakeholders. Their contributions ranged from manual labor to technical tasks, reflecting a powerful collective effort. The school also received significant donations, including computer sets, printers, braille paper, paint, and cleaning supplies—resources that will directly benefit learners, especially those who rely on assistive technologies for reading and writing. The donation from Barangay San Lorenzo, Makati City, was particularly notable for its immediate impact on student learning materials. Despite challenges such as limited manpower for certain tasks, delays in material procurement, and weather interruptions, the school community remained steadfast. Daily monitoring and debriefings ensured safety and steady progress. By the end of the week, classrooms, offices, and outdoor spaces had been visibly transformed—reflecting the dedication and cooperation that defined the event. As Brigada Eskwela 2024 concluded, PNSB celebrated not only the physical improvements accomplished but also the strengthened partnerships and renewed sense of unity among stakeholders. The week stood as a testament to what can be achieved when a community works with one heart and purpose. The school expressed gratitude and encouraged continued collaboration in future initiatives, recognizing that maintaining a safe and nurturing learning environment requires shared, ongoing commitment.

PNSB Holds Two-Day Assistive Technology Workshop to Empower Grade 12 Learners – April 7, 2025 – Pasay City, Philippines — To strengthen the successful transition of graduating students with visual impairments into higher education and the workforce, the Philippine National School for the Blind (PNSB) conducted a two-day training-workshop titled “Empowering Independence: Championing Against Academic and Work Environments’ Challenges with Assistive Technologies” on April 2–3, 2025, at the school’s Senior High School E-Lab.   The activity aimed to upskill 16 Grade 12 students in using assistive tools and digital platforms, enhancing their ability to independently navigate academic and professional settings. The workshop prioritized practical, hands-on experience with technologies designed to tackle real-world challenges in accessing educational content and managing personal mobility. The event formally opened with a short program featuring a message from School Principal Dr. Nora S. Pablo, who emphasized the vital role of technology in promoting independence among learners with visual impairments.   The first day of training addressed two common challenges encountered by students: accessing inaccessible materials and developing mobility independence.In the session “Unpacking Inaccessible Materials,” led by Mr. Jun Jun Limbo, students explored tools such as Seeing AI and Envision AI to interact with content in complex formats like image-based documents and PDFs. This was followed by the session “Mastering Mobility Independence,” which introduced learners to GPS-based applications like Lazarillo and Grab. Students practiced booking rides and interpreting directions through auditory guidance—gaining real-world tools for safer, more independent travel.   On the second day, the training continued with “Maximizing Online Resources,” facilitated by Ms. Mabel S. Gaerlan. This session introduced participants to digital libraries such as Bookshare and assistive reading apps like Dolphin EasyReader, empowering students to independently search for, download, and read academic materials using screen reader-compatible platforms. The final session, “Navigating Virtual Support Tools,” also led by Ms. Gaerlan, focused on remote access applications such as TeamViewer and NVDA Remote. Students learned how to request and receive virtual assistance when facing technical difficulties—minimizing dependence on physical support and strengthening self-sufficiency.   Both days concluded with presentations of learning and output demonstrations, where students confidently showcased their new competencies in document access, mobility, and virtual collaboration.   The workshop wrapped up with a closing program featuring reflections from selected students and the awarding of certificates by Mrs. Janice Villaro, Administrative Officer IV, Mrs. Gemma D. Soriano, Senior High School Head, and Ms. Agnes “Aggie” Angeles, Country Outreach Program Coordinator of Bookshare Philippines. Ms. Angeles also delivered the closing remarks, commending the students for their active participation, remarkable growth, and resilience throughout the training. The successful implementation of this training-workshop was made possible through the collective efforts of PNSB’s dedicated faculty and staff, with generous support from Benetech, Inc. and Bookshare Philippines. This initiative is a testament to the school’s commitment to preparing learners with visual impairments to thrive in inclusive, accessible, and competitive environments. PNSB remains steadfast in championing educational equity by integrating assistive technologies into its programs—ensuring that no learner is left behind in the digital age.

PNSB Empowers Staff Through Financial Literacy and Economic Wellness Seminar – 21 March 2025 – Building confidence in managing personal finances took center stage as the Philippine National School for the Blind (PNSB) conducted its Financial Literacy and Economic Empowerment seminar on March 21, 2025, in celebration of National Women’s Month. Held at the PNSB Mini Conference Room, the activity gathered 29 teaching personnel and 28 non-teaching staff for an afternoon of practical learning designed to strengthen financial skills and support long-term economic stability. The program opened with welcoming remarks from Mr. Ronald Manguiat, who emphasized the importance of financial literacy in both personal and professional life. Serving as master of ceremony, Ms. Maribel Rivera ensured the smooth flow of the event. The seminar’s main resource speaker, Ms. Nicole P. Lleva, began with an insightful discussion on essential financial concepts such as budgeting, saving, debt management, and investing. She clarified common misconceptions about budgeting and highlighted harmful financial habits that often hinder financial growth. Participants were guided through a step-by-step process of creating an effective budget, setting financial goals, and categorizing expenses. After the first session, staff members took a short break before engaging in a hands-on financial planning activity, allowing them to apply the concepts learned. The second part of the seminar focused on strategies for financial empowerment, particularly in advancing gender equality and supporting inclusive economic opportunities. Through interactive discussions and real-life examples, Ms. Lleva encouraged participants to adopt smart financial practices that promote financial independence and long-term security. The seminar concluded with the awarding of a certificate and token of appreciation to Ms. Lleva, followed by closing remarks from Mrs. Janice Villaro, who underscored the lasting value of financial literacy in empowering individuals and communities. The activity successfully met its objectives by equipping PNSB personnel with practical financial management knowledge and promoting responsible financial decision-making.

PNSB Teachers Boost Reading Instruction Through Specialized LAC Session on Literacy Strategies – 14 February 2025 – Determined to strengthen reading instruction for learners with visual impairment, the Philippine National School for the Blind held a focused Learning Action Cell (LAC) session on February 14, 2025—an engaging discussion that empowered teachers with strategies to make reading instruction more meaningful, structured, and accessible. The afternoon program demonstrated that when educators refine their teaching practices, learners gain clearer pathways toward fluency and comprehension. The session, conducted at the school’s Mini Conference Room, began at 1:00 p.m. under the guidance of facilitator Mr. Reymart Abante. Program preliminaries were led by Ms. Kaizel Ann Caranto before the main discussion was delivered by the resource speaker, Mr. Ronald M. Manguiat. Present were teachers handling Filipino, English, Braille Reading and Writing, and Remedial Reading—making the session a valuable collaboration across literacy-related subjects. Mr. Manguiat emphasized that the session supports Project BRIGHT, aligning teachers with strategies needed for the upcoming reading monitoring schedule. He began by clarifying the core components of reading fluency, highlighting speed, accuracy, and expression as indicators of a learner’s reading development. The comparison between average reading rates of Braille readers (100 words per minute) and sighted readers (400–500 words per minute) provided teachers with clearer benchmarks for assessing student progress. He noted that fluency begins with word-by-word reading in early stages, a natural developmental milestone for young readers. Teachers explored several effective strategies for developing reading speed and accuracy among blind learners. Since visual cues such as pictures cannot be used, Mr. Manguiat emphasized the importance of familiar text, repetition, immediate corrective feedback, and targeted decoding practice. He also stressed the need for teachers to maintain a student reading profile, which helps track progress and identify emerging strengths and challenges—an important tool for structured literacy instruction. The session transitioned into a comprehensive discussion on listening and reading comprehension, acknowledging that comprehension is the ultimate goal of literacy. Teachers learned the before-, during-, and after-listening strategies that build understanding, such as connecting to prior knowledge, predicting outcomes, mapping the setting, and inferring characters’ feelings. The presentation also introduced the five levels of comprehension—from literal to creative—which help teachers craft questions that progressively deepen students’ analytical skills. After the lecture, participants discussed concerns and clarified classroom application techniques. The session concluded with the awarding of certificates, presented by Ma’am Gemma, recognizing the speaker and the technical working group for their contributions. The meeting adjourned at 3:50 p.m., ending a productive and enriching professional development activity. This LAC session reaffirmed PNSB’s commitment to empowering teachers with specialized strategies tailored to learners with visual impairment. By enhancing reading fluency and comprehension skills, the school continues to ensure that every learner—regardless of ability—has the opportunity to build literacy, confidence, and lifelong learning habits.

PNSB Strengthens Braille Instruction Through Innovative LAC Session for Non-Graded Learners – 20 September 2024 – With a renewed commitment to inclusive education, the Philippine National School for the Blind conducted a focused Learning Action Cell (LAC) session on September 20, 2024, aimed at enhancing teaching approaches for Basic Braille literacy among non-graded learners. The session emphasized that every tactile dot mastered is a step toward independence, confidence, and lifelong learning—a powerful reminder of the school’s mission to empower learners with visual impairments. Held at the Non-Graded Classroom and facilitated by Teacher Kelly Larry Bucayo, the session brought together dedicated educators and staff to explore strategies that better address the diverse needs of learners with visual impairments. The session opened with a discussion led by Ma’am Memie, who underscored DepEd Memorandum No. 50, s. 2020, reaffirming the role of LAC sessions in strengthening continuous professional development for teachers. She highlighted the urgency of equipping educators with the right tools and approaches to support Braille literacy, especially for students preparing for grade-level transitions. Teachers were introduced to a wide range of Braille writing tools—from the Swing Cell and Peg Slate to the Perkins SMART Brailler and Braille Note—allowing them to understand the varied technological options available for different learner needs. This segment helped educators appreciate how accessible tools can significantly improve tactile learning, comprehension, and communication among visually impaired students. The session also examined the developmental importance of Braille in non-graded learners. Discussions highlighted how Braille supports customized learning pacing, reinforces multi-sensory engagement, and builds structured routines that enhance stability and focus. Teachers also learned how Braille contributes to emotional development, providing learners with moments of achievement and boosting their self-esteem. The group emphasized that every small progress in Braille literacy contributes meaningfully to a learner’s independence and capacity to participate actively in their daily environment. A second session led by Ma’am Violeta expanded on essential Pre-Braille skills such as tactile discrimination, finger isolation, object permanence, auditory skills, and directional awareness. Teachers explored practical, hands-on activities—including matching textures, tracing raised lines, manipulating small objects, and engaging in sound recognition exercises—which are foundational in preparing learners for formal Braille instruction. The collaborative discussions fostered a dynamic exchange of best practices, with educators sharing their methods and insights in teaching learners who require highly individualized instruction. By the end of the session, teachers expressed strengthened confidence in applying more effective, compassionate, and developmentally appropriate approaches in their classrooms. The meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m., concluding a meaningful afternoon dedicated to professional growth and learner-centered education. Through this LAC initiative, PNSB continues to reinforce its commitment to providing quality, accessible education to learners with visual impairments. With improved competencies and renewed motivation, teachers are better equipped to guide non-graded learners on their Braille literacy journey—ensuring that no learner is left behind.

Philippine National School for the Blind Shines Bright with Multiple Wins – April 25, 2024 – Pasay City, Philippines — The Philippine National School for the Blind (PNSB) has recently showcased their exceptional abilities, clinching an impressive array of victories across various competitions held throughout April 2024. At the NCR Palaro, PNSB athletes showcased remarkable spirit and skill, securing an impressive 18 gold medals and 1 silver in athletics and goal ball competitions. Their outstanding performance not only highlighted their athletic prowess but also served as an embodiment of the school’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for all. It also earned them the privilege of representing the NCR at the upcoming Palarong Pambansa in Cebu City this July. Meanwhile, in the competitive arena of technology, PNSB emerged victorious, securing 1st and 3rd place rankings, along with one qualifier, at the National IT Challenge 2024. These talented students have earned the opportunity to compete in the Global IT Challenge in October, showcasing their expertise in digital information processing and reaffirming PNSB’s reputation for technological prowess. Furthermore, PNSB’s literary talents shone brightly at the Regional Festival of Talents Braille Reading Contest, where Edwin Andrei Nicolas Banzon, representing PNSB, claimed the coveted 1st place with exceptional fluency and speed in braille reading. Banzon’s remarkable talent will see him and his coach competing in the National Festival of Talents (NFOT) this July, leaving a lasting impression on judges with his ability to bring words to life through touch and sound. Finally, In the Division Muling Pagkukuwento (Storytelling) Competition, PNSB’s gifted storyteller, Rouvin Ivan Ducusin, secured the 3rd place award. Ducusin’s captivating narratives transported listeners into enchanting worlds, demonstrating that imagination knows no bounds, even in darkness.

PNSB launches reading month with an array of activities to enrich minds – December 7, 2023 – The National Reading Month kick off at the PNSB-covered court today, following the flag-raising ceremony. An annual undertaking observed every November, the National Reading Month is a concerted effort by the Department of Education to engage students across the country in a month-long reading program. The initiative aims not only to cultivate a culture of reading among students but also to divert their attention from excessive use of social media and technology. This year’s Reading Month is brimming with activities designed to reshape students’ perspectives on reading. Activities include the Reading Challenge, Book Buddy, Book Talk, Classroom Read-A-Thon, Mystery Reader, and Poster Making, among others. At PNSB, the highlight of the National Reading Month event is the Braille Reading Contest Year 2, sponsored by Bookshare Philippines, JCI Perlas, Pasay City Chapter, and Philippine Blind Union. This contest allows PNSB learners to showcase their skills in braille reading, as well as to demonstrate correct pronunciation and fluency in reading.  Learners can participate in this contest based on their Grade Level category, with prizes at stake for three winners in each category. Mr. Ronald Manguiat, the school’s reading focal person, passionately encourages students to cultivate a love for reading by emphasizing its invaluable benefits. These include motivation and inspiration derived from the stories we read, knowledge enhancement, enriched vocabulary, cultural awareness, cost-effective learning, improved memory, enhanced problem-solving ability, and expanded comprehension. The National Reading Month is anchored on the theme, “Reading Hope Resilience for the Future” (Pagbasa Pag-asa sa Matatag na Kinabukasan). Ms. Jackie Cordero, a reading ambassador, sparked students’ interest in reading by reading aloud a captivating story “My Father Goes to Court” written by Carlos Bulosan. Mrs. Corazon B. Salvador brought the kick-off event to a close by inspiring students to embrace the joy of reading and motivating the students to read more to learn more. The diverse range of activities during National Reading Month provides students with the opportunity to participate in the Division English Festival of Talents, further enhancing their overall learning experience. For the year’s National Reading Month (NRM) celebration, the Department has directed all relevant agencies to refer to the DepEd Memorandum No. 244, series of 2011, titled “Declaring November as National Reading Month Every Year and November 25, 2011, as the Nationwide Araw ng Pagbasa.” issued by the former Education Secretary, Armin Luistro.