President Marcos has signed Republic Act No. 12199, which prioritizes early education, proper nutrition, and caring support to give young Filipino children, especially those aged zero to five, a strong start in life
At A Glance
- The Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) System Act, signed by Marcos on May 8, aims to safeguard and promote every child's right to holistic well-being, growth, and dedicated care.
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President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (file)
The Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) System Act, signed by Marcos on May 8, aims to safeguard and promote every child’s right to holistic well-being, growth, and dedicated care.
The ECCD System Act is one of the priority measures recommended by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) to improve the country’s educational system and uphold every child’s right to holistic care and development.
According to Malacañang, the new law repeals RA No. 10410, or the Early Years Act of 2013.
Based on the measure, the ECCD Council is mandated to care for children below age five, while the Department of Education (DepEd) oversees those aged five to eight, in line with the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013.
Under the new law, the ECCD will be institutionalized in a comprehensive, integrative, and sustainable way through multi-sectoral and interagency collaboration at the national and local levels in government with other stakeholders.
The ECCD System promotes inclusive education by ensuring children with disabilities receive proper services, reasonable accommodations, and accessible environments.
It aims to reduce child mortality, support all areas of child development, prepare young children for formal schooling, and establish early intervention systems for those with special needs.
The ECCD Council will be strengthened to lead health, nutrition, education, and social development programs, with strong coordination across agencies.
Local government units will play a key role in implementing ECCD programs through their respective ECCD offices.