MANILA, Philippines — Senate Committee on Basic Education chair Bam Aquino revealed seven key issues Philippine education must address now after consulting experts and stakeholders nationwide. These urgent concerns aim to improve the learning experience and outcomes for Filipino students.
Speaking during a plenary session, Aquino lauded the Congressional Commission on Education (EdCom) for its candid evaluation of the education system. “Our consultations and EdCom’s report form the foundation of the seven key issues we need to address immediately,” he said, emphasizing the deep crisis affecting students across the country.
Nutrition Crisis Impacting Student Readiness
Aquino highlighted a severe nutrition crisis among Filipino children. Only 25 percent of children aged 6 to 12 months meet recommended daily energy intake, leading to stunting in one out of every four kids under five. This malnutrition hampers their ability to focus and learn effectively in school.
He urged lawmakers to pass legislation strengthening universal feeding programs for Kindergarten to Grade 3 students, with targeted support for Grades 4 to 6. “Our children deserve to be well-fed and ready to learn when they arrive at school,” Aquino stressed.
Classroom Shortage Demands Swift Action
Another pressing challenge is the shortage of classrooms nationwide. The country needs about 165,000 additional classrooms to accommodate rising student populations. Current facilities often operate in two shifts daily, and only 30 percent of school buildings are in good condition.
During consultations, Aquino discovered discrepancies in construction costs: NGOs build classrooms for under P1 million, while government projects exceed P2.5 million. “Why is the government paying more than double for classrooms compared to the private sector?” he questioned, pledging to investigate through legislative oversight.
Limited Access to Textbooks Hinders Learning
Access to textbooks remains a systemic problem. At the midpoint of the school year, only 37 percent of textbooks for Grades 4 and 7 had been delivered. Aquino noted this is not a budget issue but results from shortcomings in development, procurement, and distribution processes.
As a solution, he proposed the E-Textbook Para sa Lahat Act to ensure all DepEd-approved textbooks are digitally accessible for free. “Students should have the materials they need from the very first day, whether in print or online,” Aquino explained.
Internet Connectivity: A Vital Educational Tool
Internet access remains limited for many students, teachers, and administrators, restricting modern learning opportunities. Connectivity enables online research, interactive lessons, and collaboration, essential for 21st-century skills.
Aquino pledged to work with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to optimize unused budgets for expanding internet access. “Students and teachers deserve every possible tool for learning without added costs,” he emphasized.
Teacher Support Must Improve Significantly
Teachers face overwhelming workloads, with two out of three working over 40 hours weekly and handling more than 50 non-teaching tasks. Aquino filed the Angat Sweldo Para sa Guro Act, proposing a monthly P10,000 increase for public school teachers and qualified staff over three years.
He also supports revising the Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act to create alternative licensure pathways, strengthen oversight of teacher education institutions, and enhance transparency. “Teachers bear a monumental responsibility and deserve both support and fair compensation,” Aquino remarked.
Bridging the Learning Gap Is Critical
Filipino students are reportedly two years behind curriculum expectations. Some Grade 3 students have only Grade 1 level skills in reading and math, while older students struggle with basic operations.
To address this, Aquino promised to collaborate closely with DepEd to fully implement the K-12 system and boost funding for the National Learning Recovery Program and remedial initiatives. “Closing this gap is urgent to secure our children’s future,” he said.
Preparing Students for Employment
Finally, Aquino pointed out that the education system inadequately prepares students for the workforce. Many young Filipinos view education and employment as their primary path to improving their families’ lives.
He concluded, “Our students deserve opportunities to thrive in the job market, and education must equip them accordingly.” For more news and updates on Philippine education, visit Filipinokami.com.
