Recognition of Scouting's Role in Youth Development
- The Department of Education acknowledges the BSP and GSP's significant contribution to molding pupils and students into responsible citizens.
- Scouting activities act as preventive measures against negative influences such as drugs and peer pressure.
- As a co-curricular program, scouting promotes wholesome development and community involvement.
Voluntary Membership and Value of Participation
- Membership in the BSP and GSP reflects pupils’ and students’ interest in meaningful activities that foster productive skills.
- Scouting develops leadership abilities and strengthens values and character formation.
Guidelines for Revitalization of the Scouting Movement
- The Department of Education supports nationwide revitalization efforts through partnerships and cooperation with BSP and GSP.
4.1 Promotion of Membership
- All public and private elementary and secondary schools should promote BSP and GSP membership among students, parents, and teachers at the school year's start.
4.2 Voluntary Membership and Collection of Fees
- Membership is voluntary and cannot be a precondition for school enrolment, transfer, or clearance.
- BSP and GSP unit leaders collect membership fees and fundraising proceeds, which must be fully remitted to their respective local councils.
- No mandatory membership quotas are imposed.
4.3 Strengthening Scouting Programs
- DepEd officials are urged to actively contribute to the development and implementation of quality scouting activities.
4.4 Participation in Scouting Activities
- DepEd officials and students are encouraged to take part in scouting events such as jamborees, camps, meetings, competitions, training, and conferences across all levels.
- Participation is subject to existing Department of Education policies and regulations.
4.5 Institutional Support and Visibility
- DepEd officials are encouraged to actively support BSP and GSP as members or officers.
- Wearing scout uniforms by DepEd personnel and students is promoted to enhance visibility and positive image.
4.6 Credits and Incentives
- Previous memoranda and orders granting service credits and exemptions (e.g., from Citizens Army Training) for scouts are reiterated and upheld.
- These include credits for scouting awards, training attendance, and other recognitions.
Designation of Responsible Offices and Coordination
- The Center for Students and Co-Curricular Affairs (CSCA) is designated as the office-in-charge of all scouting matters within the Department of Education.
- Regional Directors, Schools Division Superintendents, and School Principals must appoint scouting coordinators among education supervisors and teachers.
- These coordinators work with BSP and GSP counterparts to monitor implementation and benefits.
Authorization for Specific Directives
- Regional Directors, Schools Division Superintendents, and School Principals are authorized to issue additional directives consistent with the revitalization goals.
Reporting and Compliance Requirements
- BSP, GSP, and DepEd regional and division offices are required to submit reports to the CSCA.
- Existing orders and issuances that do not conflict with this directive remain effective.
- Wide dissemination and adherence to the order is mandated for effective implementation.