Press Release
December 19, 2012

ANGARA COMMENDS PASSAGE OF K to 12 MEASURE ON SECOND READING

Senator Edgardo J. Angara reiterated the need for curriculum reform in the Philippines, pushing for the passage of the measure institutionalizing the extended 12-year Basic Education Curriculum.

Senate Bill No. 3286, also known as the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2012 was passed on Second reading yesterday at the Senate. Entitled "An Act Enhancing The Philippine Basic Education System By Strengthening Its Curriculum And Increasing The Number Of Years For Basic Education, Appropriating Funds Therefor And For Other Purposes", this measure aims to produce world-class Filipino graduates by adding two years to the current ten-year curriculum.

According to Angara, chair of the Senate Committee on Education, Arts and Culture, the two additional years would help the country's graduates be more globally competitive since most countries have a 12-year curriculum. in fact, the Philippines is one of only three countries left in the world with less than 12 years in the primary and secondary tiers of education.

"We should consider this measure a vital investment to the future of this country, boosting the competitiveness of our youth and putting us up to par with our fast-growing neighbors in Asia," he stressed.

Under this bill, the Department of Education (DepEd) in coordination with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) along with other relevant stakeholders are tasked with designing the new extended curriculum that will ensure college- and work-readiness.

The veteran legislator is hopeful that the bill will be passed on the third reading before session adjourns for the holidays. "This is such an important measure for the Philippines' lagging educational system. I hope it will be put through before the year ends so that 2013 will be for ironing out all the details of implementation."

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