Don Bosco School - Salesian Sisters, Inc.

Curriculum Alignment and PETA Planning in Action

Faculty members of Don Bosco Manila recently participated in a professional development session focused on curriculum alignment and PETA planning to further enhance teaching and learning practices. The seminar opened with a curriculum alignment talk led by Mrs. Aisa Peraldo, Math coordinator, who emphasized the importance of aligning competencies, instruction, and assessment to ensure effective and meaningful learning experiences for students. Teachers were guided on how properly aligned learning outcomes, classroom activities, and assessments contribute to deeper student understanding and more authentic demonstrations of learning.

This was followed by an interactive PETA planning know-hows session facilitated by Mr. Sherwin Ladrica, Science Coordinator. One of the highlights of the session was the PETA scenarios analysis activity, where teachers examined sample performance tasks and identified possible misalignments between competencies, learning objectives, instructional activities, and assessment evidence. Through collaborative discussions, faculty members analyzed how certain PETAs may fail to measure the intended competencies and explored ways to improve alignment to make assessments more purposeful, valid, and student-centered.

After the session, teachers had the grade-level PETA planning sessions facilitated by the subject area coordinators. Teachers worked collaboratively within their grade levels to map out PETAs, ensuring vertical and horizontal alignment across subjects and year levels. The planning sessions allowed faculty members to refine assessment strategies, integrate 21st-century skills, and develop meaningful performance tasks that promote critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and student engagement.

DON BOSCO SCHOOL IS PROMOTING SAFETY, DISCIPLINE, AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY

Today’s Faculty INSET, spearheaded by the Discipline Team, focused on strengthening the teachers’ knowledge, awareness, and preparedness in handling student-related concerns within the school community. The first part of the session centered on important topics such as Child Discipline, Child Protection, Child Abuse, and School-Related Violence. Through meaningful discussions and collaborative sharing, teachers were reminded of their vital role in creating a safe, respectful, and nurturing learning environment for every learner.

The second part of the INSET highlighted the Student Handbook, particularly the different categories of offenses that may be committed by students and the corresponding disciplinary procedures. This session served as a refresher for all faculty members to ensure that school policies are properly understood, fairly implemented, and consistently observed in dealing with student behavior and discipline cases.

The Discipline Team aims to continuously equip teachers with the proper knowledge, skills, and understanding in handling various situations in school. By staying informed and updated with school policies and child protection protocols, educators become more empowered to respond with professionalism, fairness, and compassion in every circumstance.

As one community, we remain committed to fostering a culture of discipline, accountability, and loving-kindness where every student feels protected, guided, and inspired to become responsible Bosconians.

Day 4, May 18: CIAO Scuola Educators’ Congress in Tokyo, Japan, May 14–19

In the morning, each Province creatively drafted its plan of action, inspired by the rich insights and reflections shared during the first three days of the Congress, all centered on the theme: Global Compact on Education in the Salesian Style. In the late afternoon, Sr. Anita Kwok, FMA, presented the fruits of these discussions to the assembly, which joyfully agreed to entrust the collation of the responses to the CIAO Scuola team.

After lunch, the delegates were given the wonderful opportunity to benchmark with the Salesian International School through classroom observations in the high school department. Teachers and students warmly welcomed the delegates, allowing them to witness firsthand the dynamic and engaging way different subjects are taught in the classrooms. It became a truly enriching experience of interculturality, dialogue, and shared passion for the education of the young.

At the close of the day, Sr. Runita Borja, FMA, delivered her concluding message, beautifully weaving together the graces, learnings, and challenges of the four-day Congress, while offering inspiring insights and hopeful directions for future innovation in the Salesian educative mission.

The Closing Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bishop Mario Michiaki Yamanouchi, SDB, and concelebrated by Fr. Atsushi Hamasaki, SDB Provincial Superior of Japan; Fr. Shoichiro Nakata, Vice Provincial; and Fr. Anthony Pun Ming Chi, SDB (Hong Kong). The celebration became a profound moment of thanksgiving for the spirit of communion, shared mission, and renewed commitment experienced throughout the Congress.

After dinner, the delegates delighted everyone with their cultural presentations in a vibrant and heartwarming showcase of the beauty, richness, and diversity of Asian cultures. Through music, dance, and joyful performances, the evening became a celebration of unity in diversity and the family spirit that animated the entire gathering.

The event concluded with the heartfelt “good night” talk of Sr. Evangelina Da Costa, FMA, Provincial Superior of East Timor. With deep gratitude and inspiring insights, she expressed her appreciation for the meaningful and fruitful success of the Educators’ Congress.

(Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, FMA, Mrs. Mary Grace Montenegro, Mrs. Diane Peñano, and Mrs. Rosemarie Simangan are currently participating in the CIAO Scuola Educators' Congress at the Salesian International School in Akabane, Tokyo, Japan, from May 14 to 19, 2026. The Congress gathers 70 participants composed of Salesian Sisters and Educators from the schools of the Salesian Sisters in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, East Timor, Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and two Sisters from the FMA Generalate in Rome.)

DBS Manila Faculty Engage in Transformative Curriculum and Instructional Development Training

In its continuing commitment to academic excellence and transformative Catholic education, Don Bosco School Manila recently conducted an in-house faculty training focused on curriculum development, unpacking of learning competencies, and innovative instructional practices aligned with the Philippine Catholic School Standards (PCSS), the Guide for Educative Mission (GEM), and the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST).

The training commenced with a comprehensive session led by Academic Coordinator Mrs. Lilia Embat, who guided faculty members through the process of curriculum alignment and the unpacking of learning competencies. The session emphasized the importance of ensuring that learning outcomes are clearly articulated, measurable, and responsive to the needs of 21st-century learners. Teachers were encouraged to deepen their understanding of curriculum standards to effectively translate them into meaningful classroom experiences.

This was followed by an engaging workshop facilitated by English Coordinator Ms. Babylyn Montejo on the implementation of the EFDT Framework guided by the Gradual Release of Responsibility Model. The session highlighted effective strategies in crafting teachers’ instructional blueprints and daily session plans that foster student engagement, collaboration, and independent learning. Faculty members actively participated in discussions and practical activities aimed at enhancing pedagogical approaches that promote deeper understanding and learner-centered instruction.

Further enriching the training was a meaningful discussion on the significance of the Philippine Catholic School Standards (PCSS), the Guide for Educative Mission (GEM), and the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST) in the continuous curation and development of the Don Bosco School Manila curriculum. Formation Coordinator Sister Asela Chavez, FMA emphasized that these frameworks serve as guiding principles in ensuring that the school’s educational mission remains rooted in faith formation, academic excellence, and holistic learner development.

Strengthening the discussions on quality education and institutional effectiveness, Quality Assurance Officer Mr. Kevin Alberto underscored the importance of maintaining standards-driven practices in curriculum implementation and instructional delivery by discussing the Philippine Professional Standards for Teaching (PPST). He reiterated the school’s dedication to continuous improvement and educational innovation anchored on the Salesian charism and the mission of forming young people to become competent, compassionate, and Christ-centered individuals.

The in-house training served as a meaningful avenue for professional growth, collaboration, and reflection among faculty members. Through initiatives like these, Don Bosco School Manila continues to uphold its mission of providing quality Catholic education responsive to the demands of contemporary education while remaining faithful to its Salesian identity.



Writer: Ms. Montejo
Lay-out/pictures: Mr. Ladrica

Day 3: CIAO Scuola Educators’ Congress in Tokyo, Japan, May 14–19

The day began with the Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Anthony Pun Ming Chi, SDB, from Hong Kong, while some delegates from the Philippines served as the choir during the Mass. The third keynote address was delivered by the same priest who presided over the Mass this morning, on the theme “Reading the Global Compact on Education in the light of the Preventive System of Education.” It was an invitation to see education as a loving encounter that places the dignity of every young person at the center while nurturing dialogue, participation, solidarity, and care for our common home. It calls educators to walk beside the youth with reason, faith, kindness, and hope, helping them grow into compassionate persons who can renew society and become builders of peace.

Afterwards, Salesian educators from the Philippines, East Timor, South Korea, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Thailand shared inspiring testimonies on how the Preventive System of Education is creatively and faithfully lived out within their own cultural and educational contexts. Miss Arlenie Sasan, principal of Mary Help of Christians School (Cebu), represented the Philippines. She shared a heartwarming journey of how she herself was formed by the Sisters in her long years of teaching in the school and how she now carries within her the joyful conviction and heart of a true Salesian educator.

After lunch, the delegates delighted in a memorable cultural visit to Sensō-ji Temple, where they experienced the beauty and rich tradition of Japanese culture. The afternoon continued with joyful moments of free time as they explored the vibrant streets of Tokyo, taking in the sights, energy, and charm of the city until evening.

(Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, FMA, Mrs. Mary Grace Montenegro, Mrs. Diane Peñano, and Mrs. Rosemarie Simangan are currently participating in the CIAO Scuola Educators' Congress at the Salesian International School in Akabane, Tokyo, Japan, from May 14 to 19, 2026. The Congress gathers 70 participants composed of Salesian Sisters and Educators from the schools of the Salesian Sisters in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, East Timor, Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and two Sisters from the FMA Generalate in Rome.)

Day 2: CIAO Scuola Educators’ Congress in Tokyo, Japan, May 14–19

The day began with the Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Anthony Pun Ming Chi, SDB, from Hong Kong, while some delegates from the Philippines served as the choir during the Mass. Mrs. Diane Peñano skillfully and graciously served as the moderator for the entire day’s proceedings, guiding the program with warmth and joyful energy.

The first keynote address was delivered by Professor Maria Manzon of Sophia University (Tokyo, Japan) on the theme “Pedagogies of Peace with Asian Roots: An Interreligious Dialogical Approach.” She emphasized how Asia’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions can foster peace through dialogue, mutual respect, and compassionate understanding. She also highlighted the importance of an education that forms young people not only in knowledge, but also in empathy, harmony, and a shared responsibility for building a more peaceful world.

Personal reflection and group sharing followed, culminating in the participants’ reports during the assembly. Mrs. Mary Grace Montenegro eloquently presented, on behalf of the participants from the Philippines, the group’s insights and reflections during the assembly, conveying them with clarity and grace.

After lunch, Sr. Debbie S. Ponsaran delivered the second keynote address on AI in Education: Beyond Technological Competence, Nourishing our Humanity and Transcendence through the Preventive System of Don Bosco. The following are some salient points in Sr. Debbie's keynote address:

“As Salesian Educators, we should progress from a purely utilitarian view of technology toward a formative and spiritual framework. We are addressing the higher-order concerns of integral education, that is, the formation of the person.”

“AI will continue to evolve, and we must also evolve to enhance our alliance with AI in a way that we don’t have to trade off what makes us deeply human and spiritual. In a world becoming more artificial, we must leverage an integral education that enhances our humanity.”

“While engaging with AI, we must also be forming souls capable of fecund silence, meaningful human relationships, and openness to God. May our classrooms become spaces where humanity and spirituality are not only preserved, but made more meaningful.”

As in the activity in the morning, personal reflection and group sharing followed, culminating in the participants’ reports during the assembly. Ms. Aprilyn Muzada, principal of Mary Help of Christians School (Pampanga), presented, on behalf of the participants from the Philippines, the group’s insights and responses during the assembly.

After a full day of profound and enlightening keynote speeches, the delegates of Mary Help of Christians School (Pampanga) facilitated a lively recreation that enabled the participants to get to know one another better.

After dinner, Sr. Sarah Garcia, in charge of the Salesian Sisters Human Rights Office in Geneva (Switzerland), delivered a brief yet heartfelt “Good Night” talk on the situation of youth and mental health. Her message became a gentle but urgent appeal to the hearts of Salesian educators to care more attentively and compassionately for the young people entrusted to them.

The day concluded with hearts filled with both concern and hope, inspired to seek new and creative ways of promoting the integral education of the young through the enlightening and challenging keynote speeches.

(Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, FMA, Mrs. Mary Grace Montenegro, Mrs. Diane Peñano, and Mrs. Rosemarie Simangan are currently participating in the CIAO Scuola Educators' Congress at the Salesian International School in Akabane, Tokyo, Japan, from May 14 to 19, 2026. The Congress gathers 70 participants composed of Salesian Sisters and Educators from the schools of the Salesian Sisters in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, East Timor, Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and two Sisters from the FMA Generalate in Rome.)

Blessed birthday, Sr. Tita!🥰🎉🎂

The DBS Educating Community sends you our warmest and most joyful greetings.

We are deeply grateful for your grace-filled leadership as our Provincial Superior. Today, we offer our heartfelt prayers for your holy mission, praying that God continues to bless you with divine wisdom, steadfast strength, and peace. May He reward your beautiful devotion to our community.

CIAO Scuola Educators' Congress in Tokyo, May 14 to 19

Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, FMA, Directress; Mrs. Mary Grace Montenegro, Principal; Mrs. Diane Peñano, Guidance Coordinator; and Mrs. Rosemarie Simangan, AP Coordinator are currently participating in the CIAO Scuola Educators' Congress at the Salesian International School in Akabane, Tokyo, Japan, from May 14 to 19, 2026.

The Congress gathers 70 participants composed of Salesian Sisters and Educators from the schools of the Salesian Sisters in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, East Timor, Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and two Sisters from the FMA Generalate in Rome.

Also from the Philippines are four delegates from Mary Help of Christians School Cebu, and five delegates from Mary Help of Christians School Pampanga.

The theme of the congress is the Global Compact on Education in the Salesian Style, highlighting the commitment of Salesian Sisters and Educators to forming young people through an education rooted in human dignity, solidarity, dialogue, care for creation, and the integral development of the whole person.

The event is organized by CIAO Scuola, an educational organization within the CIAO, Conferenza Interispettoriale Asia Orientale (Conference of East Asia Provinces of the Salesian Sisters). Sr. Anita Kwok of FMA Hong Kong and CIAO Coordinator, explained the journey of the organization in the good night talk.

The morning holy Mass was presided by Fr. Shoichiro Nakata, Vice Provincial of SDB Japan Province. The event commenced with heartfelt welcome messages from the Provincial Superior of Japan, Sr. Maria Assunta Michiko Miyawaki, FMA, together with an inspiring written message from Mother Chiara Cazzuola, Superior General of the FMA Institute, and a video message from Sr. Angela Thongyu Kitsakul, FMA, CIAO President.

Setting a meaningful tone for the gathering, the first keynote address was delivered by Sr. Runita Borja, FMA, General Councilor for Youth Ministry, FMA Generalate (Rome, Italy) on the Global Compact on Education lived out in the Salesian style.

Reflection and group sharing on the keynote talk of Sr. Runita followed, allowing the participants to deepen the keynote message and discern meaningful ways of living it out more faithfully in their personal and educational mission. The groups presented their responses during the assembly, reflecting on some questions such as: What positive qualities and potentials do today’s young people bring to our world, and what situations challenge and call educators to accompany them more closely? How can networks and alliances strengthen and enrich our educational mission?

At the end of the day, the Japanese students of the Salesian International School warmly delighted everyone with dance and song performances, and a fun Japanese culture trivia.

🚀✨ Are you ready for BUKLURAN 2026? 🌌

Future astronauts and Salesian leaders, your mission countdown has officially begun! 👨‍🚀👩‍🚀

Make sure your space suits are ready for launch and double check all the important essentials before we embark on this stellar journey together 🛰️📦

⚠️ Just a reminder for SLTC-PLTC and SYG Leaders to promptly complete their registration on or before May 18, 2026.

📌Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1gtqZAZmlo_bBgthzWlVgcDo0G9jX5eCygvBHKzLi5yo/edit?usp=drivesdk

🗓️ Waiver: https://form.jotform.com/261321291558456

Inside this transmission, you’ll find everything you need for the mission:
👕 Attire guidelines
📝 Important event details
🎒 Things to bring
🗓️ Mission schedule and activities

Explore what’s waiting for you beyond the stars as we journey together in faith, leadership, and communion 🌠💫

Prepare for takeoff, leaders — the universe of BUKLURAN 2026 awaits! 🌙

See you soon, space voyagers! ✨

DON BOSCO SCHOOL MANILA ADVANCES CURRICULUM REFORMS TO SHAPE FUTURE-READY BOSCONIANS

Don Bosco School (DBS) Manila continues to strengthen its commitment to academic excellence through curriculum evaluation, development, and reform aligned with its vision and mission of forming globally competent, values-oriented, and future-ready learners.

To support this initiative, DBS conducted an in-house curriculum development and evaluation seminar led by School Principal Mrs. Mary Grace Montenegro. During the training, she highlighted the Hilda Taba Grassroots Model, emphasizing the vital role of teachers in developing responsive, learner-centered, and effective educational programs.

Faculty members also evaluated key academic areas based on the standards and recommendations of the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU). The review focused on refining instruction, assessment practices, student engagement, and interdisciplinary learning to ensure that the curriculum remains aligned with the vision and mission of the school and responsive to the challenges of the modern world.

Further strengthening the school’s educational identity, School Directress Sr. Debbie S. Ponsaran emphasized the unique Salesian pedagogy inspired by St. John Bosco and St. Mary Mazzarello. She underscored the importance of the Preventive System rooted in Reason, Religion, and Loving-Kindness in fostering holistic formation, joyful learning, and compassionate leadership among Bosconians.

Meanwhile, Quality Assurance Officer Mr. Kevin Alberto presented the revitalized Strengthened Senior High School (SSHS) Curriculum, highlighting updated core subjects and flexible learning pathways that better prepare students for higher education, future careers, and global challenges.

Through continuous curriculum refinement and strengthened Salesian formation, Don Bosco School Manila remains steadfast in providing quality Catholic education that equips Bosconians with the knowledge, skills, values, and resilience needed to face the challenges of the world with competence, character, and faith.

Writer: Ms. Montejo
Photo/Lay-out: Mr. Ladrica