The largest network of private schools in the country has expressed concerns over the growing issue of “reform fatigue,” warning that ongoing education reforms could undermine the quality of learning nationwide.

The Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA), in a statement issued on Feb. 7, called for a comprehensive review of the recent legislative measure — House Bill 11213, titled “An Act Providing Education Pathways for Basic Education Students” — and urged lawmakers to consider the potential long-term effects on students and the education system as a whole.

'Fatigue' from reforms

COCOPEA, which represents 1,500 private schools across the country, has urged Congress to carry out a comprehensive review of House Bill 11213 after it recently passed its third reading in the House of Representatives.

As the sector "already suffers from reform fatigue, with many proposed reforms not delivering on their intended quality objectives and outcomes," COCOPEA urged Congress to "consider more in-depth studies on the implications, challenges, and benefits" of the said bill.

COCOPEA also urged Congress to assess how the proposed bill aligns with the "significant recommendations" of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) before moving forward to ensure that the Philippine education system continues to meet the "evolving needs of Filipino learners."

The organization pointed out that the country’s performance in global student assessments, such as the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) and the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), highlights that while "we've aligned with the global standard of 12 years of schooling, we continue to fall behind in terms of learning outcomes."

"This discrepancy calls for a renewed focus on the quality of learning, rather than changing the number of years of schooling, and thus necessitating urgent reforms focusing on curriculum quality, content delivery, accessibility, and governance—many of which can be addressed without the enactment of new legislation," COCOPEA stressed.

Potential impact on learning outcomes

Following the House of Representatives' approval of HB 11213 and the conclusion of the 19th Congress' legislative calendar, COCOPEA reiterated its call for the measure's "careful examination and its potential impact" on Filipino learners and the Philippine education sector.

COCOPEA raised concerns about HB 11213, which proposes major revisions to the current K to 12 program set by Republic Act 10533.

The organization expressed being "deeply concerned" about the bill's possible effects on the learning outcomes of Filipino students and the constitutional right to quality, accessible basic education.

The Education Pathways Act mandates that after completing Junior High School, students will have the option to choose between two educational pathways.

Among the options are the University Preparatory Program under the Department of Education (DepEd) or the Technical-Vocational Program under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

COCOPEA highlighted that under HB 11213, with Senior High School (SHS) and Tech-Voc programs made "merely optional," basic education could become a "premature exit point" for many students, impacting their future development, employment prospects, health, social mobility, and overall productivity.

"This fundamental policy change conflicts with the constitutional mandate to protect and promote quality education at all levels and make it accessible to all," COCOPEA said.

Additionally, COCOPEA emphasized that the proposed complete separation of the Tech-Voc track from secondary education under the House Bill "weakens the stability of the program," as it would no longer be covered by the constitutional requirement for free public secondary education.

Given this, COCOPEA urged lawmakers to conduct a thorough review of the measure, emphasizing the need to ensure quality education and safeguard students' future academic and career opportunities.