Learners from various schools across the Schools Division Office of Calamba City demonstrated their talents, skills, and creativity as they competed in the Division Festival of Talents at Calamba Elementary School on January 10, 2025.
In her message, SDS Merthel M. Evardome, CESO V, emphasized the importance of fostering self-confidence and positive learning experiences among learners. She encouraged coaches and teachers to refrain from reprimanding them for losses, noting that doing so could harm their confidence.
“Ang mga talents, skills, at competencies na ipapakita nila ay bunga ng teaching and learning sa classroom,” she said, adding that the development of skills should be part of daily classroom practices rather than relying solely on extensive competition preparations.
Evardome reminded everyone that competitions are not about quick results from a week or month of practice but a culmination of consistent learning and skill development.
She also expressed optimism about the potential of Calambeño learners to excel at the regional and national levels, stating, “Manalo man o matalo, ang makarating sa division level is already a consolation.”
This year’s DFOT celebrated the diversity of learners, allowing them to showcase their knowledge and creativity across various disciplines.
Featured events included Technolympics, Sining Tanghalan (Bayle, Katutubong Sayaw, Direk Ko, Ganap Mo, Sineliksik, Guhit Salaysay, and Likhawitan).
Additionally, learners participated in Read-a-Thon, Araling Panlipunan, Musabaqah, and the Special Needs Education Expo.
Events under Araling Panlipunan included the Population Education Quiz, Oratorical Speech (On-the-Spot), and the Kasaysayan, Heograpiya, at Kultura ng Pilipinas Quiz. In the Musabaqah category, competitions featured Harf Touch or Oration (NASEEHAH) and Quran Reading.
The festival highlighted not only academic excellence but also cultural appreciation and artistic expression, reflecting the holistic development promoted in the Division.
SDO Calamba City remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing talents and empowering learners to achieve greater heights in their academic and extracurricular pursuits.
By Rocky A. Dela Cruz