Business Bayani PH

In a bid to transform the nation’s education system and achieve first-world standards, Vice President Sara Duterte recently addressed the 49th Philippine Business Conference and Expo at The Manila Hotel. The speech highlighted key elements of the MATATAG Agenda for Basic Education Development, focusing on curriculum, teacher welfare, infrastructure, and technology.

Education is a driving force for economic growth, connecting individuals to a brighter future and propelling society toward progress. This vision was the central theme of the Vice President’s speech at the 49th Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC & E).

Duterte, who is also secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), emphasized the critical role of education in shaping the future of Filipino youth and the nation as a whole in the global arena.

The MATATAG Agenda, an acronym denoting Make, Take, and Give, represents a comprehensive plan to bring the Philippine education system up to international standards. The plan encompasses curriculum enhancements, accelerated service delivery, learner well-being, inclusive education, and teacher support, creating a roadmap for upgrading basic education to meet the standards of developed nations.

In her address, the Vice President delved into four key aspects of the MATATAG Agenda: Curriculum, Teacher Welfare, Infrastructure, and Technology.

Curriculum

Duterte highlighted the importance of adapting the educational curriculum to the demands of the 21st century, emphasizing holistic development, critical life skills, values education, and learner support. 

The MATATAG K-10 Curriculum, launched in August 2023, is currently being piloted in 35 schools across seven regions, with plans for nationwide implementation by the 2024-2025 school year. 

The ongoing review and revision of the Senior High School curriculum, Grades 11 and 12, aims to enhance employability by aligning skills with industry needs.

Technology

In the digital age, learners need to be prepared for the future through digital literacy and interactive classroom environments. Duterte introduced the DepEd Digital Education 2028 (DepEd Digi-Ed) initiative, which aims to provide school-wide Wi-Fi connectivity across the nation, collaborating with service providers such as Starlink, PLDT, Converge, and Globe. 

The digitization of learning resources, including digital textbooks and supplementary materials, is also a priority. Additionally, the MATATAG Portal is in development to offer learners instant access to lessons and resources. 

E-Learning carts equipped with laptops, hard drives, and smart TVs are set to be provided to schools in the coming months.

Infrastructure

The Vice President recognized the importance of adequate school infrastructure in creating a conducive learning environment. The DepEd has established a dedicated strand for School Infrastructure and Facilities to accelerate the delivery of school buildings and facilities. 

A total of 2,201 new classrooms have been constructed, and the inauguration of 15 “last mile” schools has recently taken place, with 45 more scheduled for turnover. 

Funding from the private sector, including potential financing from the World Bank, will address disaster-affected schools. The School Infrastructure Transparency Website is under development to ensure transparency and public access to real-time progress on school and classroom construction.

Teacher Quality

Teachers are recognized as the bedrock of effective education, and Duterte affirmed her commitment to support their role. The DepEd is working to reduce the administrative burden on teachers by decreasing the number of administrative tasks from 50 to 10, focusing only on those with a legal basis.

The vision of upgrading the basic education system to meet first-world standards is not merely an aspiration but a necessity to ensure every child has an opportunity to succeed. 

Duterte emphasized that the journey toward improved basic education requires collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders, including the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 

Together, they aim to produce future leaders and innovators capable of meeting the ever-changing demands of the job market, ultimately enhancing the Philippine educational landscape, one learner at a time. ◼