Education Secretary Sonny Angara has acknowledged that a recent report on the state of the nation’s education system presents difficult challenges. The report, from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (Edcom2) and titled “Turning Point: A Decade of Necessary Reform,” identifies declining student proficiency, linked to issues like mass promotion and disruptions to schooling, as key problems.
Addressing Systemic Weaknesses
Angara emphasized the need for sustained investment in a 10-year National Education and Workforce Development Plan. He stated that implementing reforms will require allocating 5.5 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to education. Currently, 4.36 percent of GDP is dedicated to education, which Angara noted is the highest level to date.
Several measures are already underway, according to Angara. These include the ARAL program, designed to provide targeted support to students, and the elimination of grade transmutation policies that previously contributed to mass promotion. A shift in focus is also planned, with fewer examinations for younger students and increased emphasis on foundational reading skills.
Infrastructure and Funding
Addressing the ongoing shortage of classrooms, Angara indicated a willingness to include nongovernment organizations in the bidding process for construction projects. Organizations mentioned include the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The Department of Education (DepEd) is collaborating with the Department of Public Works and Highways to complete unfinished classroom projects. Currently, 8,000 projects are in progress, with 3,600 already finished. A budget of P3.192 billion has been proposed to complete an additional 3,614 classrooms.
If funding is maintained at the current 4.36 percent of GDP, or increased to the recommended 5.5 percent, the 10-year plan could see improvements in student performance and infrastructure. However, if funding is reduced or policies are not consistently applied, the identified problems may persist. A possible next step is to monitor the implementation of the ARAL program and assess its impact on student outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ARAL program?
The ARAL program, or Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning program, allows teachers to provide targeted interventions to students.
What is the current GDP allocation for education?
Currently, 4.36 percent of the country’s GDP is allocated to education.
How many classroom projects are currently underway?
8,000 classroom projects are currently being worked on, with 3,600 already completed.
How will the success of these reforms be measured in the years to come?
