The Department of Education (DepEd) has declared a wellness break for teachers and students from October 27 to 30, 2025, to allow them time to rest before the conduct of the midyear In-Service Training (INSET).
“In our weekly visits to schools, we’ve heard the call of our teachers. We decided to give them some time to rest and spend more time with their families,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said in a statement.
He noted that many teachers and students have been affected by recent typhoons, earthquakes, and outbreaks of illnesses.
“Marami sa ating mga guro at mag-aaral ay galing sa mga lugar na tinamaan ng bagyo at lindol o may mga kaso ng trangkaso. Kaya sabi nga natin, konting pahinga muna. Mas makakapagtrabaho tayo nang maayos kung maayos din ang pakiramdam natin,” Angara added.
The wellness break modifies provisions under DepEd Memorandum–Office of the Undersecretary for Learning Systems–2025-095 in line with Department Order No. 12, s. 2025, which outlines the current school year calendar.
According to the department, this initiative strengthens its commitment to prioritize the health and well-being of teachers and learners, emphasizing that rest is essential in ensuring better delivery of quality education.
For schools and divisions that have already paid for INSET venues and catering during the scheduled wellness break, DepEd said the training may be rescheduled and the funds redirected for other purposes.
If rescheduling is not possible, activities may proceed on a voluntary basis. Teachers who participate during the break will be exempted from attending similar trainings later in the school year.
Schools are also allowed to adjust their academic schedules in coordination with their respective Schools Division Offices (SDOs) and Regional Offices (ROs).
DepEd assured that the INSET and other professional development programs will continue for the remainder of School Year 2025–2026.
Regular classes will resume on November 3, 2025, following the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day holidays.