By Marivic Alcober

Tacloban City (21 August) -- Among the activities prepared by the Department of Education (DepEd), Region 8, relative to the celebration of its 33rd Founding Anniversary was the conduct of "Pasidungog", wherein the guest of honor was no less than DepEd Secretary Jesli A. Lapus.

Centered on the theme "Harnessing the Learning Environments for the Filipino Learners," the two-day activity was scheduled on August 20-21, with "Pasidungog" as one of them which was conducted at the DepEd's Regional Teacher's Training Center on the eve of August 20.

During the "Pasidungog" and Stakeholders Night, DepEd Regional Director Sol F. Matugas formally welcomed the guests during the program, while Samar 1st District Congressman Reynaldo Uy; Bliran Congressman Glen Chong; Eastern Samar Governor Ben P. Evadone; Southern Leyte Governor Damian G. Mercado; and Regional Development Council Chairman Mel Senen S. Sarmiento of Calbayog City gave their anniversary messages. For the province of Leyte, Vice-Governor Mimiette Bagulaya gave the anniversary message in behalf of Governor Jericho Petilla.

On said occasion, guest of honor Secretary Lapuz, who reportedly got the highest performance rating of 40% among the cabinet officials in the July Pulse Asia Survey, was so impressed by the unique introduction rendered by the Special Program in the Arts Verse Choir of the Leyte National High School students, wherein he was introduced through verses, song and dance to delight of the honorees and guests present.

In his message, Sec. Lapus congratulated DepEd-8 for its very high approval rating which is 63%, and aired his being proud and impressed the by Department's over-all accomplishments. He also shared that if funds will be pooled together, then the problem on classroom shortage will be easily solved and attended to.

One of the highlights of the program was the awarding of Certificates of Recognition to deserving internal stakeholders, those involved in the Brigada Eskwela, external stakeholders, and the Local Government Units through its respective governors and mayors.

Among those who gave entertainment, to the guests delight, were the Rah Rah Rousers of Palo, the Leyte Kalipayan Dance Troupe, and the DepEd VIII Chorale.

On the second day of the celebration, August 21, Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies will take place at the DepEd Library, new Regional Planning Unit Building, Child Minding Center, and the Display Booths on Best Practices.