19/02/2026
DepEd Policies and Guidelines on GSP and BSP Participation
The Department of Education (DepEd) continues its long-established collaboration with the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) and the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (_toggle), recognizing both organizations as vital partners in developing learnersโ character, leadership skills, and sense of citizenship. Scouting remains a recognized co-curricular activity across public schools nationwide.
The implementation of school-based scouting is primarily guided by DepEd Order (DO) No. 76, s. 2012 for BSP and DO No. 86, s. 2012 for GSP, with more recent issuances addressing teacher incentives, safety measures, and participation standards.
1. Membership and Fees
Voluntary Participation
Joining BSP or GSP must always be optional. Schools are strictly prohibited from making scouting a prerequisite for enrollment, transfer, promotion, or graduation.
No Enrollment Targets
Imposing a required number or โquotaโ of scouts per section or grade level is not allowed.
Proper Fee Handling
Any membership fees collected by school-based Unit Leaders must be fully and promptly remitted to the authorized Local Scouting Councils.
Insurance and Financial Protection
Registered scouts are generally covered by scouting-related insurance or financial assistance, particularly for accidents occurring during official activities.
2. Scouting in the School Setting
Designated Scouting Day
In many divisions and regions, Fridays are observed as Scouting Day, during which scouts and scouters may wear their uniforms or neckerchiefs.
Curriculum Integration
Scouting values and practical life skillsโsuch as first aid, preparedness, and teamworkโare encouraged to be incorporated into lessons, homeroom guidance, or enrichment activities.
Protection of Instructional Time
Orientations and recruitment activities may be conducted, but they must strictly comply with the Time-on-Task Policy to ensure that regular classroom instruction is not disrupted.
3. Incentives and Recognition for Teacher-Scouters
Vacation Service Credits (VSC)
Teachers serving as Unit Leaders or officially participating in recognized scouting activities (e.g., BSP-GSP joint camping events) are entitled to Vacation Service Credits under DO No. 013, s. 2024.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Selected scouting leadership trainings are now acknowledged by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) as eligible for CPD units.
Career Advancement
Active engagement in scouting programs, including awards and leadership roles, is considered in DepEdโs ranking, promotion, and selection processes.
4. Safety, Welfare, and Inclusivity
Parental Authorization
Participation in off-campus activitiesโsuch as camps, hikes, and jamboreesโrequires a duly signed Parental Consent and Waiver Form.
Billeting and Supervision
Schools must ensure secure and separate sleeping arrangements for male and female participants. Qualified adult leaders must supervise scouts at all times during external activities.
Inclusive Participation
In line with the Equal Opportunity Principle (EOP), scouting programs must be accessible to all learners, regardless of disability, religious belief, or ethnic background.
Key Policy References (Summary)
DO No. 76, s. 2012
Strengthening and revitalizing Boy Scouting in schools
DO No. 86, s. 2012
Strengthening and revitalizing Girl Scouting in schools
DO No. 013, s. 2024
Updated guidelines on teacher service credits, including scouting activities
Republic Act No. 10073
Girl Scouts of the Philippines Charter of 2009
Republic Act No. 7192
Promoting womenโs participation and gender equality, with relevance to scouting inclusivity
