The Philippines is one of the countries which are putting more efforts in Education. Being part of the APEC and ASEAN makes the country to be more globally competitive when it comes to Education, manpower, logistics, free-trade and services. The Philippines also produce high skilled and professional workers which are globally competitive. In order to obtain more skilled workers and professionals, the Education must be put into priority.

To align with other member countries, the Philippines have implemented the K-12 system starting on school year 2016-2017. It means additional 2 years from 10 years, now 12 years with Senior High School. Senior high schools prepare their students to their college degrees or moreover, work. From ABM to Tech-voc curriculums, all of these are for the students, our youth to be more competitive even if they have not finished college.  Before, companies prefer workers with degrees. With K-12, students who graduated senior high school will be able to apply for jobs. The new system also created jobs for local citizens all over the country. Newly graduated students and board passers are hired and trained to be the teachers in different tracks. This system also improved the facilities and other equipments of public schools. Funds were released for improvement and building of rooms, more infrastructures, and more equipments and materials that will be used to academic and tech-voc tracks.  

Parents don’t have to think about the tuition fees. If their children will study in public school, the government will provide their fees. The Voucher System has been implemented. It’s a free education for all students in public school.

But you cannot please everyone, there are people who are against this new system but the government insisted on continuing it. To be more globally competitive, one must comply. 

By: JEMEE JOAN M. DE JESUS | Administrative Assistant II | Dr. Victoria B. Roman Memorial High School, Pantingan, Pilar