Next decade of education reform begins as DepEd commits to EDCOM 2 roadmap

The Philippines’ Department of Education (DepEd) is embarking on a decade-long plan to overhaul the nation’s education system, following the release of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) Final Report, titled “Turning Point: A Decade of Necessary Reforms (2026–2035).” Education Secretary Sonny Angara is leading the effort to implement the report’s recommendations through concrete, time-bound actions.

A Decade of Reform

The EDCOM 2 report’s recommendations largely align with initiatives already underway under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration. These include efforts focused on learning recovery, strengthening foundational skills, and improving systemwide governance. According to Secretary Angara, the focus now is on accelerating these reforms, expanding their reach, and increasing accountability.

Did You Know? The EDCOM 2 Final Report covers a ten-year period, from 2026 to 2035, outlining a comprehensive vision for education reform in the Philippines.

A National Agenda

Angara emphasized that the EDCOM 2 report is not solely the responsibility of the DepEd, but a “shared national agenda” requiring collaboration across all levels of government and society. He called for sustained cooperation from lawmakers, local governments, industry partners, parents, and civil society organizations to ensure the reforms endure beyond any single political cycle.

Early Learning and Curriculum

Reforms are being prioritized at the earliest stages of a child’s education, with increased coordination between education, health, and nutrition agencies. Stronger involvement from local governments is also planned. These efforts will include curriculum harmonization, workforce training, and the implementation of unified data systems, alongside expanded feeding programs and increased parent engagement starting in School Year 2026-2027.

Expert Insight: The emphasis on early learning and inter-agency coordination suggests a recognition that educational success is deeply intertwined with broader social and economic factors, requiring a holistic approach to address systemic challenges.

Classroom Changes and Assessments

Nationwide implementation of the revised K to 10 curriculum is currently underway, supported by large-scale teacher training programs. The ARAL Program continues to focus on learning recovery, while Project BUKAS is expanding access to student assessment results to inform school-level improvements. By School Year 2026-2027, reforms to grading, assessment, and promotion are expected to reinforce mastery-based learning. Efforts to address classroom shortages are also being accelerated through partnerships.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the “Turning Point” report?

“Turning Point: A Decade of Necessary Reforms (2026–2035)” is the final report of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), outlining recommendations for education reform in the Philippines over the next decade.

Who is leading the implementation of these reforms?

Education Secretary Sonny Angara is leading the Department of Education’s efforts to implement the recommendations from the EDCOM 2 report.

What areas of education will be prioritized?

Reforms will focus on learning recovery, strengthening foundational skills, advancing systemwide governance, early learning, curriculum harmonization, teacher training, and addressing infrastructure gaps.

How will the success of these reforms be measured in the coming years?