DAVAO CITY (November 6) — The Department of Education (DepEd) is implementing major reforms to address functional illiteracy in the country, with Mindanao’s far-flung and conflict-affected schools among the top priorities.
The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) recently reported that the number of functionally illiterate Filipinos has nearly doubled in three decades — from 14.5 million in 1993 to 24.8 million today.
“With President Marcos’ support, we are aligning resources, streamlining functions, and focusing on what matters most — foundational learning and literacy recovery,” said Education Secretary Sonny Angara in a statement.
EDCOM 2 has urged the agency to refocus on its core mission of improving classroom learning, noting DepEd’s involvement in over 260 interagency bodies has diluted attention from basic education.
Angara said reforms include the rollout of a streamlined K–10 and senior high school curriculum, nationwide teacher training, the establishment of the DepEd Principals Academy, expanded classroom construction, and stronger education technology integration.
Support for last-mile schools
About ₱3 billion has been earmarked under the Last Mile Schools Program to boost access to education in geographically isolated, disadvantaged, and conflict-affected areas (GIDCAs) — many of them in Mindanao.
“These projects go beyond classrooms — they include internet connectivity, water and sanitation facilities, tech-vocational labs, and solar power for off-grid schools,” said Eastern Samar Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales, adding that several Mindanao provinces, including parts of Caraga and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, stand to benefit.
Boosting mental health support
Meanwhile, Camarines Sur Rep. Luigi Villafuerte called for greater investment in mental health services in schools following a rise in bullying cases to 2,500 in School Year 2024–2025.
DepEd has proposed ₱2 billion in 2026 to hire 10,000 school counselor associates, many of whom will be deployed to large and underserved public schools, including those in Mindanao.
Cracking down on diploma mills
Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre also urged the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to take action against diploma mills after EDCOM 2 reported that many teacher education graduate programs prioritize credentials over competence.
“Too many graduate programs today have become mere ticket requirements for promotion, not real opportunities for growth,” Acidre said.
