Current Issues Surrounding the Philippine Education Department

The Philippine education system has seen significant progress over the years, but it continues to face numerous challenges that hinder its ability to provide quality education for all. Here are some of the most pressing issues currently affecting the Department of Education (DepEd):

Internal Issues

1. Infrastructure Learning Resources

One of the most critical challenges is the lack of adequate school infrastructure and learning resources. Many schools, especially in rural areas, suffer from overcrowded classrooms, insufficient instructional materials, and outdated facilities. According to the Basic Education Report (BER) 2023, only a fraction of the school buildings are in good condition, with many requiring minor to major repairs.

2. Quality of Education

The quality of education remains a significant concern. Large class sizes, outdated teaching methods, and inconsistent teacher training contribute to the disparity in educational outcomes between urban and rural areas. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the digital divide, with many students lacking access to reliable internet and devices necessary for online learning.

3. High Dropout Rates

High dropout rates, particularly at the secondary and tertiary levels, continue to be a major issue. Factors such as poverty, the need for children to work, and geographic isolation contribute to this trend. This limits the country's human capital development and hampers economic growth.

4. Curriculum and Employability

The K-12 curriculum, implemented in 2013, was a significant reform aimed at aligning the Philippine education system with international standards. However, challenges remain in ensuring that the curriculum meets the needs of students and prepares them for higher education, employment, or entrepreneurship. There is also a need to address the gap between the skills taught in schools and the demands of the job market. There should be a discussion or talk on the profiling of hires for senior high school graduates.

5. Teacher Training and Support Inadequate teacher training and support are prevalent issues. Many teachers lack access to professional development opportunities, which affects their ability to deliver quality education. There is also a notable disparity in the quality of education provided in urban versus rural areas.

6. Inclusivity and Access

Inclusivity in education remains a concern, with significant disparities in access to quality education between different regions and socioeconomic groups. The decline in enrollment figures in private schools and the closure of many private institutions during the pandemic have further exacerbated this issue. 

Path Forward

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. The government and various stakeholders must work together to improve school infrastructure, provide adequate learning resources, and ensure consistent teacher training. Additionally, efforts should be made to bridge the digital divide and make education more inclusive and accessible to all Filipino learners.

Current Political Issues 

1. Leadership and Governance

Vice President Sara Duterte, who also serves as the Secretary of Education, has been at the forefront of addressing the education crisis. Her leadership has been both praised and criticized, particularly regarding her approach to reforming the K-12 curriculum and addressing infrastructure deficiencies. The dual role she holds has also sparked debates about the concentration of power and potential conflicts of interest.

2. Budget Allocation and Underinvestment

A significant political issue is the persistent underinvestment in the education sector. Compared to neighboring countries, the Philippines allocates a smaller percentage of its GDP to education. This underfunding has led to inadequate school facilities, insufficient learning materials, and a lack of support for teachers. The government has been criticized for not prioritizing education in its budget, which has long-term implications for the country's development.

3. Corruption and Procurement Practices

There have been allegations of corruption within DepEd, particularly concerning procurement practices. Issues such as overpricing of materials and favoritism in awarding contracts have been highlighted. These practices not only waste public funds but also delay the delivery of essential resources to schools.

4. Curriculum Reforms and Implementation

The implementation of the K-12 curriculum has faced numerous challenges. Critics argue that the curriculum has not effectively prepared students for employment or higher education. The ongoing review and potential overhaul of the curriculum have become a contentious political issue, with various stakeholders advocating for different approaches to education reform.

5. Teacher Workload and Support

Teachers in the Philippines often face heavy workloads and insufficient support, particularly in the health and maintenance aspect. The current system burdens them with administrative tasks, leaving less time for actual teaching and professional development. This issue has been a focal point in political discussions, with calls for better support and resources for teachers to improve the quality of education. With the heavy workloads and number of students to attend to, teachers are vulnerable to physical and mental illness. Support from the government for their health maintenance is badly needed as most of them rely heavily upon their own resources for their physical and mental well-being.

Moving Forward

Addressing these political issues requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society. Transparency in governance, increased investment in education, and a focus on effective curriculum reforms are essential steps towards improving the Philippine education system. By tackling these challenges, the DepEd can work towards providing a better future for Filipino students.