School administrators across the region convened at the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R), Basak Campus, Cebu City, on September 18–19, 2025, for the Training on the Strengthened Senior High School (SHS) Curriculum. Representing the Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception (FCIC) were Mrs. Blanchie G. Torcino and Sister M. Marinelle Pernites, OSF.
The two-day training, spearheaded by the PEAC (Private Education Assistance Committee) in partnership with DepEd (Department of Education) and USJ-R, provided school leaders with in-depth discussions. The program also emphasized assisting private Senior High Schools in implementing the revised Senior High School Curriculum known as the “Strengthened Senior High School Curriculum” by coaching the school administrator participants to develop a: 1. Tailored School Implementation Plan that aligns with the qualifications of their faculty and the physical resources available at their institutions; and 2. School Re-entry Plan that outlines the essential steps to take before executing the School Implementation Plan for the Strengthened SHS Curriculum developed during the training workshop.
“This training was a timely opportunity for us to gain clarity on the strengthened curriculum and how it will directly impact our teachers and learners,” said Mrs. Torcino. “It allowed us to reflect on our role as administrators in ensuring that the changes translate into meaningful learning experiences for our students.”
Sister M. Marinelle Pernites, OSF, likewise shared that the sessions reinforced the Franciscan commitment to holistic education. “As administrators, we are not only tasked to implement policies but to nurture an environment where faith and academic excellence grow together. This curriculum update challenges us to guide our school community with both competence and compassion.”
The impact on FCIC is expected to be significant. Insights from the training will guide upcoming retooling sessions for teachers, refinement of curriculum maps, and strengthened supervision of classroom instruction. These efforts are directed toward enhancing the quality of education and ensuring that FCIC learners are well-prepared to meet both local and global demands.
Looking ahead, the administrators expressed their commitment to cascade the training’s learnings within the FCIC community. By doing so, the institution aims to reinforce its vision of providing Christ-centered, quality, transformative Franciscan education, fully aligned with the evolving national curriculum.
By Blanchie G. Torcino
