As the End-of-School-Year (EOSY) rites began on Tuesday, April 14, Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the importance of implementing comprehensive education reforms in the Philippines that aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to meet the demands of the future.
“As we close School Year 2024–2025, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our learners, teachers, school staff, parents, and partners who have been part of this shared journey,” Angara said in his graduation message.
DepEd Memorandum No. 027, s. 2025, outlined the conduct of EOSY rites for the K to 12 Basic Education Program. According to the school calendar for SY 2024–2025, the rites may be held on any date between April 14 and 15.
Angara congratulated the graduates and completers of SY 2024–2025.
“You are the generation that binds all of us together,” he said. “As you step into the next chapter of your lives, carry with you the values of perseverance, resourcefulness, and compassion that define us as Filipinos.”
Strengthening the education system
This year’s theme, Angara noted, “underscores our collective effort in strengthening our education system to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.”
The theme for the SY 2024–2025 EOSY rites is “Henerasyon ng Pagkakaisa: Kaagapay ng Bagong Pilipinas.”
During his visits to schools across the country, Angara said he witnessed the strong commitment of education stakeholders. “These realities push us to craft enduring reforms,” he said.
Through the 5-Point Reform Agenda, Angara shared that DepEd has taken concrete steps to address classroom shortages, strengthen the workforce by filling critical positions, accelerate digitalization, enrich career pathways, and implement policies aimed at lasting systemic improvement.
He also highlighted DepEd’s collaboration with private sector partners to make these reforms possible.
Angara stressed that beyond addressing current challenges, DepEd is also laying the foundation for a “future-ready” education system.
“Our goal is not just about an uptick in numbers. Our goal is for every Filipino child—no matter where they are—to have the opportunity for learning, growth, and success,” he said.
Raising the quality of education
As the school year draws to a close, Angara recognized the efforts of teachers and school staff, noting that their “dedication is the foundation of this transformation.”
“Your hope and hard work are the reason we are making progress. To parents and guardians—your support at home shapes the aspirations of our learners and inspires them to strive for more,” he added.
Angara also reminded students that they are “at the heart of everything we do,” emphasizing that their dreams “fuel our drive to make education better and more inclusive.”
He reaffirmed that under the administration of President Marcos, DepEd remains committed to raising the quality of education, strengthening governance, and ensuring that the Filipino youth reach their full potential.
“With an unyielding commitment to equity, we will build a stronger, more inclusive education system for generations to come,” Angara said.