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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider No one left behind: DepEd ensures reforms reach Filipinos abroad

No one left behind: DepEd ensures reforms reach Filipinos abroad

Published Apr 18, 2026 02:06 pm
Education Secretary Sonny Angara has assured that Philippine Schools Overseas (PSOs) are included in the implementation of education reforms set to begin in School Year 2026–2027, as the Department of Education (DepEd) moves to align overseas schools with new national policies while providing flexibility based on host-country conditions.
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara (DepEd photo)
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara (DepEd photo)
During a virtual session called “Online Kumustahan,” DepEd officials and representatives from 35 PSOs discussed key reforms, including the shift to a three-term school calendar, revised classroom assessment and grading guidelines, and the Strengthened Senior High School (SHS) Program.
“Following the marching orders of President Bongbong Marcos, we are committed to ensuring that our global learners are not left behind as we transform our curriculum to be more responsive and future-ready,” Angara said.
DepEd said it is conducting nationwide orientations to guide regional and division officials, principals, and teachers on the implementation of the reforms.
The Online Kumustahan followed an earlier virtual interaction on April 7, where DepEd officials assured support for teachers and students abroad, particularly in the Middle East, amid ongoing conflicts in the region.
The latest dialogue also served as a venue to discuss policy updates and address concerns on operations and academic flexibility of PSOs, which cater to more than 25,000 students in 10 countries.
DepEd officials said the shift to a three-term school calendar aims to maximize teaching time, reduce class disruptions, and ease the administrative workload of teachers.
They added that the strengthened SHS curriculum is designed to better prepare graduates for college or immediate employment.
Assistant Secretary for Learning Systems Strand Jerome Buenviaje said the reforms are interconnected and intended to strengthen the education system further.
While the three-term school calendar will be mandatory nationwide, Buenviaje said PSOs will be given a transition period and flexibility to adjust based on their host countries.
Officials emphasized that aligning PSOs with national standards is crucial to ensuring that Filipino students abroad can reintegrate and adjust upon returning to the Philippines.

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