DepEd issues guidelines on Galaw Pilipinas
By MARIVIC M. CUIZON, PhD
Bancasi Integrated School
The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued the Guidelines on Galaw Pilipinas: The DepEd National Calisthenics Exercise Program. Said program aims to promote an active lifestyle for Filipinos that will benefit both their physical and socio-emotional well-being; improve strength, flexibility, cardio-vascular endurance, coordination, and balance; enhance cultural awareness by integrating Philippine cultures in the calisthenics exercises; and inculcate nationalism, unity, and discipline.
The guidelines will be implemented in public and private schools/community learning centers, shall promote an active lifestyle, inculcate positive values, and counter sedentary living.
State and local colleges and universities, as well as other higher educational institutions offering basic education, are encouraged to adopt said guidelines.
The Galaw Pilipinas was developed through a series of workshops spearheaded by the Bureau of Curriculum Development. Participants who served as developers were PE supervisors and Special Program in Sports implementers bringing with them rhythmic movements/exercises inspired by folk dances and tribal/festival movements in their respective regions. These movements are inspired by Philippine folk dances which include Rigodon Royale, Tinikling, and Maglalatik, among others; and festivals particularly Sinulog, Higalaay, Kalilang, and the like. Arnis stances such as strikes are also integrated in the calisthenics in recognition of Arnis as the Philippine national martial art and sport. Meanwhile, select Special Program in the Arts implementers provided the original composition with vocals and instrumentals to serve as the official music of the calisthenics. To ensure the quality of the calisthenics routine, it was developed, validated, and finalized with the help of different experts from the field, academe, and physical fitness associations.
DepEd establishes the promotion and implementation of Galaw Pilipinas, as the national calisthenics, to achieve an active lifestyle among all types of learners in all key stages. ###
