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Many schools, especially in rural areas, suffer from overcrowded classrooms, insufficient instructional materials, and outdated facilities.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 Large class sizes, outdated teaching methods, and inconsistent teacher training contribute to the disparity in educational outcomes between urban and rural areas.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.

World Teachers' Day

Since 1994, World Teachers' Day is celebrated across the world on October 5. The importance of teachers has been recognized by UNESCO as an appreciation for the vital contribution that teachers make to education and development. Over 100 countries observed World Teachers' Day. Education International (EI) the global union federation that represents education professionals, launches a public awareness campaign every year to highlight the contributions of the teaching profession.
In the Philippines, Teachers' Day is actually celebrated in schools between September and October by Presidential Proclamation No. 479 to honor more than 500,000 teachers nationwide. These activities are planned by senior students in the Student Council/Government who coordinate the activities well in advance.

 

Teacher, as they say, makes a man perfect. They could make a wonderful experience and a difference in the lives of their students. What is sometimes lacking in their homes, the teacher fills it and tries to save what was left of them.
Teachers motivate and do not put an end to a dream or goal or strength or ability of their students. Teachers let their students come out and bring the best in them and from them. The teacher equips his/her students to learn how to learn.

Teachers of The Decade

     Attending my son's graduation from high school last March 31 made me shiver and reminds me of my graduation day 25 years ago. I wasn't sentimental back then compared to my son's graduation..there's a mixed emotion..happy, that finally another stage of my son's life has ended and the joy of hoping he would be in college and that he would make it better this time...sad, that my son isn't a baby anymore, the one I used to cuddle, he would have his own life and decision and I'm afraid for him to have mistakes.

     As the ceremony has ended, we took pictures with some of his teachers..our teachers. This blog is actually for these teachers who have exemplarily done their work..our English teacher, our Social Studies teacher, and our Music teacher. Except for the first one, both teachers were known for their terrifying effect on students and I had been one of those students. They really have an impact on me as a person and as a teacher. I would say they are effective and efficient as well.

     They are the teachers of the decade, dedicated to their work, inculcating the importance of teaching and learning to their students...How come...I'm an English teacher too and planning to get a certification in TESOL, I still remember the Afro-Asian literature, the use of auxiliary verbs, doing a written report, the World history, reporting inside the class, how to read musical notes, and understanding the piano parts. How to be neat, how to talk in front of people, and how to recite even if you're nervous. Twenty-five years have gone by, and they became the teachers of my son.

     Imagine the times they have been in our alma mater, the times they have spent teaching kids, the many times students were leaving them and new ones came in. I've felt the same way they had felt many times when my own students have graduated. When all else are leaving for the American Dream, they were the ones who are left for the Filipino dreams. And still, no one can surpass the dedication they have..love them all..they deserve more of the best! Kudos to all my teachers..\o/

Our English teacher, Mrs. Raquel Naanep-Bato.

Our Social Studies teacher, Ms. Loida Estrada

Our Music teacher, Mr. Silvestre Mariano.