As the last few years of basic education faces reforms this year.
In 2026, Department of Education (DepEd) said that it will be strengthening reforms in the sector, especially the senior high school tracks that would have its curriculum better aligned with the goal of having work-ready graduates.
Part of the Five-Point Reform Agenda of the department, which include moves to address infrastructure and other pressing matters, the Strengthened Senior High School (SHS) Program will be introduced.
This aims to create a more responsive, relevant, and suitable final year in basic education by fixing the curriculum, which currently has two pathways: the Academic track at ang Technical-Professional track.
DepEd has also expanded the Work Immersion Program from 80 hours to 320 up to 640 hours for Technical-Professional learners to help them have meaningful and hands-on learning in an actual workspace.
Education Secretary Angara is also looking to continue in 2026 the free National Certification (NC) assessments in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
In 2025 alone, over 170,000 SHS-Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) learners were able to gain the said certificate.
This year, the department, including its Regional Directors and Schools Division Superintendents, will also look for ways to improve the existing curriculum and implement it across the country.
DepEd will also concentrate on the effective implementation of the Philippine Qualifications Framework at Philippine Skills Framework with partner agencies for the continuity of learners from education to being members of the workforce.
“Kasama sa paalala sa atin ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos ang pagkakaroon ng education system na tunay na makatutulong sa mga kabataang Pilipino—isang sistemang maghahanda sa kanila sa susunod na yugto ng kanilang buhay, ang pagpasok sa mundo ng trabaho,” said Angara.
