The Passionate Educator: Music, Arts, Physical Education and Health (M.A.P.E.H.) Teachers Overcoming Hurdles and Achieving Success in the New Curriculum

The implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum has introduced significant instructional changes for teachers; however, limited research has examined the lived experiences of Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (MAPEH) teachers as they navigate these reforms. This phenomenological study explored the challenges, coping strategies, and insights of MAPEH teachers in implementing the new curriculum. Ten MAPEH teachers from the Conel District, Division of General Santos City, with at least five years of teaching experience, were purposively selected to participate in semi-structured in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings generated seven emergent themes. Challenges experienced by participants were categorized as Resource and Curriculum Gaps and Time and Capacity Issues, reflecting concerns related to inadequate instructional materials, limited technological support, insufficient training, and time constraints. To address these challenges, teachers employed strategies captured in the themes Creative Resource Use, Collaborative Practices and Resource Sharing, and Innovations in Fostering Student Engagement. These approaches included improvising instructional materials, strengthening professional collaboration, and implementing interactive learner-centered activities. Furthermore, participants identified valuable professional insights reflected in the themes Professional Growth Through Flexibility and Adaptability and Collaboration and Learner-Centeredness, demonstrating increased adaptability, instructional creativity, and commitment to responsive teaching practices. The study underscores the importance of sustained professional development, institutional support, and collaborative learning environments in enhancing curriculum implementation. The findings offer practical insights for policymakers, school leaders, curriculum developers, and teachers seeking to strengthen MAPEH instruction and support successful educational reform initiatives.