MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) is accelerating reforms in basic education after the Philippines placed 74th out of 177 countries in the Global Education Futures Readiness Index (GEFRI) 2025. The country’s score of 56.32 out of 100 ranks it fifth lowest among Southeast Asian nations, highlighting the urgent need for improvements.
The Global Education Futures Readiness Index evaluates how well education systems prepare for future challenges like governance, infrastructure, innovation, and equitable access. According to the GEFRI report, “Philippines performs close to the global average across every GEFRI dimension.” However, the report also cautions that this average masks the ambition required for true progress. “Much progress can still be made,” it emphasized.
Education Center for Artificial Intelligence Research
In response to these findings, DepEd has launched several initiatives to modernize basic education. Key among these is the establishment of the Education Center for Artificial Intelligence Research, aimed at using AI and data science to address challenges in teaching, planning, and school management.
Some innovations from this center include “Sigla,” a mobile app that automates learners’ growth monitoring, and “Talino,” a geospatial mapping tool designed to guide private sector involvement in schools. Another tool, “Dunong,” analyzes school leadership data to support succession planning.
DepEd is also developing “SALIKSeek,” a chatbot system to help officials access internal data efficiently. Meanwhile, tools like “Sabay” and “Ligtas” are undergoing testing to aid cognitive screening and monitor geohazards, respectively.
Aside from AI-driven efforts, the department launched Project Bukas, an open-data initiative to improve tracking of enrollment, resource inventories, and learning outcomes at the school level.
K-12 Reforms in Senior High School
Despite ongoing discussions about abolishing the K-12 program, DepEd is actively restructuring the senior high school (SHS) curriculum. The program now integrates Technical-Vocational Education and Training, enhancing students’ skills for future careers.
Furthermore, SHS graduates have become eligible for entry-level government positions, expanding their employment opportunities.
Earlier this year, a senator proposed removing the mandatory SHS level, arguing that the program has yet to meet its objectives since its 2013 enactment.
Enhancing Digital Infrastructure
To support these educational reforms, DepEd is investing heavily in digital infrastructure. Programs like PSIP Connect aim to supply devices, solar power, and satellite internet to remote and underserved schools. The Bayanihan SIM Program also targets connectivity challenges in hard-to-reach areas.
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara acknowledged that reforming basic education is a complex task but insisted it is necessary for the future. “We are improving the system to be better, more modern, and more useful to teachers, parents, and students,” he said.
For more news and updates on basic education reforms, visit Filipinokami.com.
