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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Future-ready: DepEd boosts education reforms under Marcos administration

Future-ready: DepEd boosts education reforms under Marcos administration

DepEd aims to equip every student with the tools for success in a fast-changing global education landscape

Published Jul 15, 2025 05:21 pm

At A Glance

  • Anchored on the goal of enhancing global competitiveness and digital readiness, DepEd's intensified efforts include curriculum upgrades, digital transformation, and stronger stakeholder collaboration
  • DepEd accelerates education futures push under Marcos administration to boost global readiness—signaling a renewed commitment to equip Filipino learners with the skills and mindset needed for the demands of the 21st century
In a bold stride toward future-proofing the country’s education system, DepEd is fast-tracking digital reforms and AI innovations under Marcos to improve education readiness and global competitiveness. (DepEd / MB Visual Content Group)
In a bold stride toward future-proofing the country’s education system, DepEd is fast-tracking digital reforms and AI innovations under Marcos to improve education readiness and global competitiveness. (DepEd / MB Visual Content Group)
In a determined move to future-proof Philippine education, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday, July 15, said it is fast-tracking reforms and digital innovations aligned with President Marcos’ development agenda.
DepEd, in a statement, reaffirmed its commitment to building a future-ready education system through stakeholder-driven reforms and digital transformation following the country’s latest ranking in the Global Education Futures Readiness Index (GEFRI).
The Philippines ranked 74th out of 177 countries, with a score of 56.32, placing it in the “emerging and partial readiness” category. The GEFRI highlights persistent gaps in governance, innovation, and equitable access to quality education.
In response, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to systemic transformation.
“Pinapaganda natin ang sistema para maging mas maayos, mas makabago, at mas kapaki-pakinabang sa mga guro, magulang, at bata (We are improving the system to make it more organized, more modern, and more beneficial for teachers, parents, and children),” Angara said.
“Hindi ito madali, pero kailangang simulan at sabay-sabay nating gawin (It’s not easy, but it needs to start—and we need to do it together),” he added.
AI and data science to drive educational innovation
At the heart of DepEd’s transformation drive is the Education Center for Artificial Intelligence Research (ECAIR)—a pioneering initiative aimed at applying AI and data science to address systemic challenges in education.
Key projects under ECAIR include: SIGLA – a mobile app for growth monitoring of learners; TALINO – a geospatial mapping tool for private sector collaboration via the Adopt-a-School Program; DUNONG – a leadership dashboard to support succession planning in schools; SALIKSeek – an AI-powered chatbot to streamline internal data access; SABAY – for early cognitive risk screening among learners; and LIGTAS – a geohazard tracking tool to ensure school safety.
DepEd assures that these innovations are guided by an AI Governance Framework rooted in global standards, ensuring ethical, transparent, and responsible technology use.
Open data, digital access, and inclusive employment
To promote transparency and community participation, DepEd is rolling out Project Bukas, an open data platform covering enrollment, resource inventory, and learning outcomes at the school level.
In parallel, the DepEd is expanding digital access through PSIP Connect, which delivers laptops, solar panels, and satellite internet to remote schools.
Another initiative is the Bayanihan SIM Program, aimed at improving connectivity for teachers and students in underserved areas.
DepEd is also reforming the Senior High School (SHS) curriculum to better align with labor market needs. This includes integration of Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) qualifications in SHS programs and civil service eligibility for SHS graduates, boosting employment opportunities for youth.
These reforms were developed in collaboration with TESDA, CHED, and DOLE to ensure a seamless education-to-employment pathway.
“Sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni Pangulong Marcos, pinapatibay natin ang pundasyon ng edukasyon—hindi lang para makaabot sa global standards kundi para makalikha ng mas makatao, makabago, at makatarungang kinabukasan para sa bawat batang Pilipino (Under the leadership of President Marcos, we are strengthening the foundation of education—not just to meet global standards, but to create a more humane, innovative, and just future for every Filipino child),” Angara said.
A whole-of-society approach
DepEd underscores that lasting education reform requires broad collaboration—engaging parents, teachers, local communities, private partners, and international development agencies in a whole-of-society approach.
With these strategic efforts, the Department hopes to elevate the Philippines’ readiness for a fast-evolving global education landscape, ensuring that no Filipino learner is left behind in the march toward a more inclusive and future-ready nation.

Related Tags

DepEd education futures Sonny Angara AI in education GEFRI Philippines DepEd AI tools Philippine education ranking
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