Saint Mary's University Grade School

25/08/2026

18/08/2026

𝐏𝐞𝐧𝐩𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐠𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐮𝐩, 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦 𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐚𝐛

Aspiring young Marian campus journalists joined the School-Based Press Conference held at the Grade School Campus to develop their journalism skills and prepare for their roles in the school publication on August 1.

Faustino B. Saquing, Jr., Research and Publication Coordinator, led the orientation on campus journalism, school publication, and the goals of the press conference.

Meanwhile, Jovita C. Villanueva facilitated sessions on editorial board organization, newsroom roles, editorial policies, and the responsibilities of editors, writers, artists, and photojournalists.

The participants also joined a Writers’ Alignment Workshop where they identified their interests and strengths and were assigned to different writing categories.

Breakout sessions allowed them to work on assignments, consult with peers, and plan activities for their respective groups.

The participants presented their outputs, which were used to finalize their writing assignments and editorial roles.

The new editorial team will serve for School Year 2026-2027.

Article by: Faustino B. Saquing, Jr.
Photos by: Mackendrick Vinielle M. Pascua and Britney Ivanovick R. Mariano

18/08/2026

𝐍𝐮𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐲𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐊𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐬𝐚𝐧: 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝟐 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬-𝐎𝐧 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬

With the theme “Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan,” Key Stage 2 learners observed the Nutrition Month Celebration through hands-on activities that promoted healthy food choices and care for nature.

The pupils participated in salad making, sandwich making, and basic cooking, which allowed them to apply what they learned about food preparation while working with their classmates.

Pupils also were engaged in environmental care activities, which reminded them that protecting nature plays an important role in maintaining a healthy community.

The month-long celebration turned learning into meaningful experiences that encouraged pupils to make healthier choices and care for their surroundings.

Article by: Faustino B. Saquing, Jr.
Photos by: Myla R. Dueñas and Rosemarie R. Paned

14/08/2026

𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲, 𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐠𝐞, 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

Safety, Filipino language, and sportsmanship took center stage as the Grade School officially relaunched its Safety Campaign, Buwan ng Wika, and Intramurals 2026 at campus grounds on August 4.

The program started with the Ceremonial Wearing of Hard Hats to promote safety awareness and disaster preparedness among pupils and personnel. Delano Rod M. Dacles, Coordinator for DRRM, Sanitation, Safety and Pollution Control, discussed the importance of following safety measures and maintaining a secure school environment.

Following the safety discussion, Lucas Uriel T. Dacanay, CBPG President, led participants in the safety pledge while Sr. Mila S. Lumasac, SFIC, Campus Minister, led the blessing of the hard hats.

Jenkins C. Ampat, Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer III, emphasized the 3D’s: Direction, Decision, and Discipline, as important principles in emergency preparedness and response.

The activity was also attended by Samuel B. Damayon, Vice President for Administration, and representatives from the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine Red Cross.

Meanwhile, SMUGS relaunched Buwan ng Wika 2026 with the theme, “Wikang Filipino at AI: Kasangkapan sa Pananaliksik at Tulay sa Yaman ng Impormasyon.”

Activities for each grade level were conducted to encourage pupils to celebrate the Filipino language and explore its connection to artificial intelligence and research.

Adding energy to the gathering was the relaunching of Intramurals 2026, featuring three teams competing for this year’s championship: Red Lions, led by Susana P. Cadano; Blue Jaguars, led by Tala Angelika B. Labog; and Yellow Tigers, led by Allen Irish Basilio.

The teams presented their cheers, showcasing school spirit and enthusiasm for the upcoming competitions.

Article by: Janelle D. Binbinon
Photos by: Engr. Elija Marie B. Mabbayad and Neysa Fel M. Zafra

24/07/2026

𝐏𝐓𝐀 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬, 𝐀𝐘 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔-𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟕 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐬

Saint Mary’s University Grade School (SMUGS) held its annual Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) General Assembly on July 18 at the Sacred Heart Center to present school accomplishments and plans for Academic Year 2026–2027.

School Principal Dr. Ma. Cristeta M. Aduca presented the school's accomplishments for AY 2025–2026 and outlined priorities for the new academic year. She highlighted achievements in academics and school programs and emphasized continued focus on academic excellence, learner well-being, and stronger collaboration with stakeholders.

The Student Services Team also oriented parents on the school's support programs, including MARIAN C.A.R.E.S. and CHSF, which promote pupils' academic, social, emotional, and personal development. Parents were encouraged to actively participate in these initiatives.

Outgoing PTA President Atty. Jimmy N. Balmediano Jr. presented the PTA's accomplishment report, highlighting the association's financial management, community outreach, and support for school facilities. He thanked parents, homeroom officers, and the school administration for their continued cooperation and involvement.

The assembly concluded with the turnover of responsibilities to the newly elected PTA officers, marking the start of their partnership with the school administration for the 2026–2027 academic year.

Article by: Faustino B. Saquing, Jr.
Photos by: Clinton Acojido, Bryan Soliven, Engr. Elija Marie B. Mabbayad

14/07/2026

𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐄𝐝 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐬

To ensure the smooth implementation of new Department of Education (DepEd) policies, Saint Mary's University Grade School (SMUGS) gathered parents and guardians for a policy orientation at the Sacred Heart Center on July 7.

School Principal Dr. Ma. Cristeta M. Aduca led the discussion on the salient provisions of DepEd Order No. 009, s. 2026, and DepEd Order No. 015, s. 2026, which introduces changes in the school calendar, classroom assessment, grading system, and recognition guidelines.

The principal explained the implementation of the “Three-Term School Calendar” under DO No. 009, s. 2026, highlighting its aim to support more continuous learning, and provide longer and more flexible instructional periods. She also presented the revised guidelines on classroom assessment, grading, awards, and recognition under DO No. 015, s. 2026.

The activity concluded with an open forum, allowing parents and guardians to clarify concerns about the new policies.

The orientation reaffirmed the school's commitment to maintaining a strong collaborative partnership with the community as they navigate the evolving basic education landscape together.

Article by: Faustino B. Saquing, Jr.
Photos by: Clinton James T. Acojido

14/07/2026

𝐒𝐌𝐔𝐆𝐒 𝐏𝐓𝐀𝐈’𝐬 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐫𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭

Driven by a shared vision for the institution's upcoming centennial milestone, the Parent-Teacher Association, Inc. (PTAI) Officers of School Year 2025-2026 formally turned over a financial donation to Saint Mary's University Grade School (SMUGS) in a ceremony held on the school grounds, July 7.

The donation will help fund the construction of a new covered court, one of the school's major infrastructure projects for the University’s 100th founding anniversary in 2028.

During the turnover ceremony, PTAI President Atty. Jimmy N. Balmediano presented the association's financial report, detailing the fundraising initiatives that generated the funds for the project. He also highlighted the association’s commitment to supporting school development through collaborative efforts with parents and stakeholders.

The outgoing PTAI officers then formally turned over the donation to the University administration.

University President Dr. John Octavious S. Palina accepted the donation on behalf of the institution and expressed his gratitude for the active partnership between the school and the parents, emphasizing how improved facilities directly impact learners’ growth.

"Because of your steadfast commitment to enhancing our learning environment, we are building the infrastructure that allows our pupils to truly develop, and together, we will see this new covered court realized in time to celebrate our 100 years founding anniversary," Dr. Palina remarked.

The planned covered court is expected to provide learners with a dedicated venue for their holistic development while serving as a lasting contribution to the university.

Article by: Faustino B. Saquing, Jr.
Photos by: Engr. Elija Marie B. Mabbayad

14/07/2026

𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡, 𝐞𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩

Marian graders reaffirmed their commitment to holistic well-being and environmental stewardship as they joined the relaunch of the Clean, Healthy, Safe, and Friendly (CHSF) Campaign alongside the school's Nutrition Month celebration on July 6.

One of the highlights of the program was the ceremonial signing of the Wall of Commitment and Advocacy, where the pupils affixed their signatures as a symbol of their pledge to help maintain a clean, healthy, safe, and welcoming school environment.

The CHSF relaunch coincided with the opening of the 2026 Nutrition Month Celebration, which carried the theme, "Nutrisyon at Kalikasan Ating Pangalagaan." The activity underscored the connection between proper nutrition, healthy lifestyles, and environmental responsibility.

School officials emphasized that caring for the environment contributes to the overall health and well-being of the school community, encouraging learners to practice habits that promote cleanliness, safety, and sustainability both inside and outside the campus.

The joint celebration concluded with pupils renewing their commitment to support school initiatives that foster health, environmental awareness, and shared responsibility throughout the academic year.

Article by: Faustino B. Saquing, Jr.
Photos by: Engr. Elija Marie B. Mabbayad

02/07/2026

“Education at SMU Grade School goes beyond textbooks, focusing heavily on the holistic and spiritual development of the young Marians.”

Thus, the University Chaplain reminded the Grade School Community during the Mass of the Holy Spirit, as they begin the new school year with spiritual guidance and a commitment to teaching excellence, June 30.

Fr. Nemesio F. Huesca, CICM highlighted the role of the Holy Spirit in building a vibrant, faith-filled community.

"The Holy Spirit calls us to walk together as one Marian community. May this new school year be filled with wisdom, unity, and a commitment to live out our faith in everything we do," Fr. Huesca said.

In the rite of blessing, the priest also led the community in prayer for the educators, invoking strength, patience, and inspiration as they take on their roles as mentors and administrators.

"May the Holy Spirit bless our educators with wisdom, patience, and strength as they carry out their mission of forming young minds and hearts. Together, let us build a community where faith and excellence go hand in hand," he said.
The mass is celebrated annually at the beginning of the school year.

Article by: Faustino B. Saquing, Jr.
Photos by: Neysa Fel M. Zafra

15/06/2026

As Saint Mary’s University approaches its centennial jubilee, the Grade School (SMU-GS) officially opened Academic Year 2026–2027 with a prayerful gathering that united the learners, parents, and faculty and staff in a shared commitment to faith, learning, and excellence, June 15.

Sr. Mila S. Lumasac, SFIC led the community in a prayer service which marked the commencement of the activity. She also led the blessing of the learners, faculty, and staff.

In her message, Dr. Ma. Cristeta M. Aduca, School Principal, encouraged the school community to uphold academic excellence, discipline, and dedication in service throughout the school year. She emphasized the importance of working together to foster an environment conducive to holistic learning and growth.

Dr. Aduca also introduced the teaching and non-teaching staff to the learners and parents. The school personnel then took the stage with a dance presentation, bringing color and excitement to the presentation.

The activity continued in the classrooms with an orientation on the school's vision and mission, institutional policies, and classroom routines.

As it begins another academic year, SMU-GS reaffirms its commitment to the integral formation of learners exemplifying communion, excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.