City of San Fernando, Pampanga— Following the Creative Schools Framework of the Department of Education Regional Office III launched this year, public school learners in Central Luzon are encouraged not only to develop the necessary skills for learning but also to enhance their character.

To make this vision a reality, the DepEd RO3 is keen on strengthening one of the core values of the Department among its learners, the value of being “Maka-Diyos.”

The school as the nurturer of the holistic development of learners is expected to instill among the students the same core value in the delivery of the various learning activities through the integration of values in different learning areas.

Aside from the usual initiative for integration, the conduct of community prayer at the start of the week is a form of religious exercise that is anticipated to nurture one’s connection with his or her faith regardless of religious affiliation.

“Let us teach our children again to have faith. Before we undertake any important undertaking, or any important thing in our life, we should always invoke the blessing of the Creator. And that is one way of giving our children the environment of spirituality,” Regional Director Malcolm Garma said.

As an adherence to DepEd Order 50 s.2015, interfaith prayers must be one of the important parts of the Flag Raising Ceremonies every Monday. In addition, praying before the start of the first period class in the morning session (except when flag raising ceremonies have been conducted) and after the last period class in the afternoon session must be observed.

It is anticipated that through prayers, brotherhood in faith without capitalizing any religious affiliation, will continuously be fostered and strengthened.•