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May 22, 2021 – Serving as one of the DepEd’s support systems for learners during distance learning, the OKKK! Tambayan (Online Kahusayan at Katatagan ng Kabataan) program has officially wrapped up Season 3 and is gearing up for the potential release of a new season.

The online series helped learners express their emotions and concerns amidst this pandemic through an in-depth discussion of mental health with experts and facilitators.

Education Chief Leonor Magtolis Briones commended the efforts of DepEd-Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) for the success of the initiative.

“I am very pleased and happy with the results of this program in counselling and helping young people who are facing challenges with the difficulties, tension, and anxieties because of issues affecting their families,” Secretary Briones said.

The education chief stressed the importance of peer support, the bond between youth, and how this bond can change or save lives.

“Hindi naman ito goodbye, you are going out into the world to help your fellow young people. You will listen to them with patience and love, with your experiences in mind. Together, you can work together and you can help them handle their problems,” Sec. Briones said.

“Napakalaki ng papel ng kabataan and therefore they need additional time and support kung saan makikipagusap sila sa kapwa bata nila in greater detail. Itong misyon na ito ay hindi lamang sa loob ng OKKK! Program ngunit ang pinakatunay ng misyon na ito ay sa labas, sa eskwelahan at sa community,” she added.

Among the lessons covered this year by OKKK! Tambayan were related to self-care, taking care of one’s mental health, nurturing relationships, time management, and the responsible use of social media. The last episode of the season that aired on May 8, 2021 featured fake news and fact-checking.

OKKK! Tambayan episodes are uploaded on the official YouTube channel and DepEd Philippines Facebook page. The episodes are also available on DepEd TV every Saturday at 6:30 PM with replays at the same time on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Aside from OKKK! Tambayan, learners can also catch other DepEd MHPSS programs such as TALA: Tuklasin, Alamin, Likhain, at Alalahanin, an educational TV program for elementary learners that focuses on the development of the child’s Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL); and Kakaiba-yanihan, an online series fostering a supportive community that accepts, protects and helps learners with disabilities.

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