The Department of Education (DepEd) has announced a four-day “wellness break” for all public schools nationwide, scheduled from October 27 to 30, 2025, to grant teachers and students crucial rest in the wake of recent storms, earthquakes and a surge in flu-like illnesses.
Secretary Sonny Angara explained the break is a response to teachers’ appeals and the impact of natural disasters and health issues on school communities. He noted: “Many of our teachers and learners come from areas hit by typhoons and earthquakes, or are dealing with flu cases. That’s why we said, let’s take a short break first. We can work better when we’re feeling well.”
During this pause, in-service training (INSET) for teachers may be postponed or repurposed. Schools that already made bookings for training venues or meals are advised to either reschedule the activities or adjust them accordingly. If rescheduling isn’t feasible, participation becomes voluntary and those who join now will be exempt from similar trainings later in the school year.
Regular classes are set to resume on November 3, following the break and the national holidays for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Schools and regional/division offices have been instructed to coordinate with the break and adjust their calendars as necessary, ensuring that professional development programs are still completed within the current school year.