Salinas High School Champions MATATAG Agenda through Sports Development Program: A Step towards National Excellence

Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya - In an inspiring stride towards nurturing well-rounded individuals and advancing the MATATAG Agenda – the pillar of Philippine education emphasizing Malasakit, Access, and Transformation, Salinas High School is embarking on a transformative journey of sports development. Spearheaded by the Bachelor of Physical Education (BPEd) department, with the unwavering support of the College of Teacher Education and Extension Services of Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU) Bambang, an Extension Program led by Department Chair Jonar T. Zabala and Divina B. Bangayan (BPED Department Extension Coordinator), is confident to elevate Salinas High School into a hub of sporting prowess, fostering not only athletic excellence but also the holistic development of its students.

The seeds of this extension project were sown during a comprehensive Needs Assessment conducted on September 8, 2023, from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the objectives set forth by the Department of Education (DepEd) along with DepEd Order #005, s. 2023, emphasizing the importance of schools having sports clubs. This directive is also intricately woven into the Palarong Pambansa guidelines, which signifies the crucial role of sports in education.

The Needs Assessment, a vital component of Salinas High School's pursuit of the MATATAG Agenda, was executed by a dedicated team of BPEd Faculty Members, including Divina B. Bangayan, Oliver L. Estuye, Clydon Wigan, and visionary leader Janar T. Zabala. Salinas High School, nestled in the heart of Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya, warmly welcomed the team, with Principal Guilbert R. Orcales (Principal IV) leading the school's enthusiastic support for this transformative initiative.

The day commenced with a survey and orientation session, engaging both teachers (coaches) and students of Salinas High School. Through this initial interaction, the team identified a spectrum of sports disciplines that will be nurtured and developed under this program. The chosen sports include archery, wrestling, billiards, badminton, chess, volleyball, sepak takraw, and athletics. This diverse selection mirrors the inclusive approach of the program, aimed at catering to a broad range of athletic interests among the students.

The success of the initial needs assessment initiative has been made possible through the unwavering support of key individuals within the NVSU Bambang community. Dr. Jenifer Raymond R. Tallungan, Dean of the College of Teacher Education, extended his full endorsement, recognizing the immense potential this program holds for both educational and sports development. Fernando Guyong, the Extension Coordinator, played a pivotal role in ensuring that this program took flight, providing guidance and expertise every step of the way. The program also received the nod of approval from Dr. Fitzgerald I. Fabelico, Campus Administrator of NVSU-Bambang Campus, further solidifying its foundation.

Salinas High School's journey towards becoming a sports powerhouse is just beginning, and the Extension Program for sports development promises to be a beacon of excellence in the realm of student athletics. As this visionary initiative unfolds, it will undoubtedly shape the lives of countless students, fostering not only athletic skills but also invaluable life lessons in discipline, teamwork, and determination.

Through this program, Salinas High School is not only nurturing future champions but also advancing the MATATAG Agenda by promoting Malasakit (caring), Access (equal opportunities), and Transformation (holistic development) through sports. This endeavor is a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and unwavering dedication in shaping the nation's future leaders, both on and off the field.