Schools Division Office of Pampanga Empowers Teachers with Microsoft Productivity Tools Training for DepEd Computerization Program (DCP) Adoption Program

By Nadine Muriel C. Alibutod, Administrative Assistant III

December 7, 2024 — Matt Mullenweg said that “Technology is best when it brings people together.” This encapsulates the transformative power of technology in fostering collaboration and enhancing productivity. In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, the integration of technology in education is no longer just an option—it is a necessity. Recognizing this, the Schools Division Office of Pampanga has taken proactive steps to ensure that public school educators are equipped to harness the full potential of ICT tools and collaboration platforms. Through targeted training on Microsoft Productivity Tools, the initiative aims to maximize the use of DepEd Computerization Program (DCP) and Electronic Learning Cart (ELC) packages provided to schools while empowering teachers with skills that enhance both individual efficiency and collective teamwork in the classroom and beyond.

In February 2024, the Department of Education (DepEd) through the Information and Communications Technology Service (ICTS) launched the DCP Adoption Program to maximize the use of computer packages in public schools and improve teachers’ ICT skills. In support of this, the Schools Division of Pampanga conducted a Division Training for Teachers of School-Recipients of DepEd Computerization Program (DCP) FY 2022 and 2023 Electronic Learning Cart (ELC) Packages on the DCP Adoption Program from December 5 to 7, 2024, equipping selected teachers from DCP FY 2022 and 2023 recipient schools with digital competencies to enhance teaching and collaboration.

“The DCP plays a pivotal role in equipping our schools with the tools necessary to transform classrooms into hubs of digital learning. However, successful adoption goes beyond the technology itself—it requires commitment, collaboration, and a shared vision of providing quality, equitable, and future-ready education for every learner”, Division Information Technology Officer (ITO) John Paul B. Pallasigui said in his opening remarks. Welcoming the participants, he also mentioned that “Together, we can ensure that the DCP fulfills its purpose of enhancing the learning experience for our students.“, which emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in sustaining the program’s impact. He encouraged educators to exchange best practices, support one another in leveraging digital tools, and embrace evolving educational technologies. Through this united approach, the DCP Adoption Program can foster greater student engagement, digital literacy, and enriched learning experiences, ensuring that every learner is equipped for the challenges of the modern world.

The first day of training featured plenary sessions on essential digital tools and cybersecurity. In the morning, Mr. Tunie Gatlabayan, Commercial Manager for SME Business at Converge ICT Solutions, Inc., delivered an insightful Overview of Cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of digital safety in education. This was followed by Dr. Ruby M. Jimenez, Public Schools District Supervisor of SDO Pampanga, who introduced participants to Microsoft 365, highlighting its role in enhancing productivity and collaboration. In the afternoon, participants engaged in breakout sessions across two venues: Group A at Greene Manor and Group B at Redd Manor. Group A explored cloud storage and file management through Microsoft OneDrive, led by Jose Joel S. Pallasigui (Master Teacher I, San Matias ES), followed by a session on Microsoft Forms with David Russell C. Pre (Teacher II, Apalit Senior High School – Stand Alone 1), which provided a deeper understanding of its functionalities. Meanwhile, Group B delved into Microsoft Word’s advanced features, facilitated by Katy Chenee S. Napao (Teacher III, San Luis NHS), and learned about presentation design tools and concepts in Microsoft PowerPoint, guided by Rachel P. Balajadia (Master Teacher II, San Juan ES).

On the second day of training, participants engaged in specialized sessions aimed at strengthening their proficiency in key Microsoft applications. Group A explored Microsoft Teams, focusing on its essential features for classroom instruction and interactive synchronous learning, led by Nadine Muriel C. Alibutod (Technical Staff, Division ICT Unit). This was followed by a Microsoft Word session conducted by Simonette S. Cruz (Master Teacher I, San Roque Dau NHS) and a Microsoft PowerPoint session led by Michelle S. Reyes (Master Teacher II, San Antonio ES). Meanwhile, Group B delved into advanced digital tools, beginning with Microsoft Excel, where Ma. Krstjan Nickhol T. Gonzales (Teacher III, Camba NHS) guided participants through data entry, management, and analysis functions. Another discussion on Microsoft OneDrive, led by Jose Joel S. Pallasigui. The day concluded with another Microsoft Teams session, facilitated by Roland M. Suarez (Master Teacher II of Floridablanca ES).

On the last day of training, participants engaged in specialized sessions to further strengthen their ICT competencies. In the morning, Group A participated in Microsoft Excel session led by Ma. Krstjan Nickhol T. Gonzales, while Group B explored Microsoft Forms with Apolinario L. Lapuz (Head Teacher I of Pasig NHS). In the afternoon, plenary sessions provided deeper insights into educational technology and practical applications. Mr. John Paul B. Pallasigui highlighted the benefits of Learning Accelerators, emphasizing its benefits in creating engaging and interactive learning experiences. Meanwhile, Kristin Marie U. Santos, Education Program Specialist of SDO Pampanga, guided participants on how to create and complete the Work Application Plan, ensuring effective implementation of newly acquired digital skills.

As the three-day training concluded, Mr. Pallasigui expressed his gratitude to the participants for their enthusiasm and dedication. He also acknowledged the top management and training team for their support in making the program a success. In his closing remarks, he emphasized the importance of strengthening digital competencies to effectively integrate technology into education. To mark the occasion, each participant received a certificate, followed by a group photo to commemorate the event.