The Department of Education (DepEd) has announced a mid-school year Wellness Break for both teachers and learners, set from October 27 to 30, 2025. Just now, the DepEd reiterated that no In-Service Training (INSET) or any similar work-related activities will be conducted. Thus, teachers and learners can take a much-needed pause from their academic responsibilities. The decision underscores DepEd’s commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of the education community after weeks of heavy workloads, recent calamities, and an increase in flu cases affecting several regions.
Secretary Sonny Angara said that President Bongbong Marcos Jr. approved the Wellness Break to safeguard the welfare of teachers.Angara emphasized that many educators and students have been coping with challenges brought by typhoons, earthquakes, and seasonal illnesses, making the short break a timely opportunity to rest and spend quality time with family. Classes are set to resume on November 3, 2025, following the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.
Purpose of the Wellness Break
DepEd’s mid-school year Wellness Break aims to allow teachers and learners to rest, recover, and regain focus. Thus, DepEd orders to postponed INSET or “No INSET” during this academic break. We know how tiring it is after the first half of the school year. DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara explained that the decision was made after listening to the concerns of teachers during school visits nationwide. “Sa linggo-linggo nating pagbisita sa mga paaralan, naririnig namin ang panawagan ng ating mga guro. Minabuti na natin na mabigyan sila ng oras para magpahinga at magkaroon ng dagdag na oras kasama ang kanilang pamilya,” Angara said.
He explained that recent typhoons, earthquakes, and rising flu cases have affected many teachers and students. Because of this, the Wellness Break serves as a preventive and compassionate step. It recognizes that healthy and well-rested teachers are vital to quality education. Angara emphasized that a short pause allows teachers to recover physically and emotionally. Moreover, it helps them return to class with renewed energy and focus once classes resume.
1.5 days of VSC for Voluntary Participation in Professional Trainings During Mid-Year Break
The Department of Education, through Undersecretary Wilfredo E. Cabral, issued a memorandum on October 23, 2025, granting Vacation Service Credits (VSC) to teachers who voluntarily participate in professional development activities during the Midyear Break (October 27–30, 2025). Activities must be pre-approved by the Central Office, Regional Office, or Schools Division Office (SDO) and may include training, workshops, writeshops, or other similar approved undertakings. Teachers earn 1.5 days of VSC for every 8 hours of approved and documented service, following DepEd Order No. 13, s. 2024. The directive recognizes teachers’ dedication and ensures DepEd properly compensates and records their efforts during the break.
What Is INSET?
The Department of Education conducts the In-Service Training (INSET) program to help teachers and school leaders improve their skills and teaching practices. It provides a venue for educators to learn new strategies, understand curriculum updates, and adapt to changing learner needs.
Through INSET, teachers reflect on classroom experiences and work with peers to develop better ways to help students learn. The program keeps educators competent and confident in meeting DepEd’s goals for quality education. Moreover, by supporting continuous learning, INSET strengthens the public education system and promotes lifelong growth among teachers.