Filipino students are performing below the global average across all categories. In response, the Commission on Higher Education is planning to phase out teacher education programs in underperforming institutions and enhance teacher training.
Filipino students are performing below the global average across all categories. In response, the Commission on Higher Education is planning to phase out teacher education programs in underperforming institutions and enhance teacher training.
The recent PISA 2022 results for the Philippines are alarming, especially in key areas such as mathematics (355), reading (347), and science (356). These scores are significantly lower than the OECD average, placing the Philippines towards the bottom among participating countries.
This quantitative measure serves as a critical starting point for an in-depth analysis of the educational system in the Philippines.
The report underscores serious concerns about the Philippines’ basic education system, which is falling behind globally in student performance in mathematics, reading, and science. The Philippine Business for Education has warned that this educational shortfall could result in a poorly skilled workforce, adversely affecting the country’s economic growth and global competitiveness.
Filipino students are performing below the global average across all categories. In response, the Commission on Higher Education is planning to phase out teacher education programs in underperforming institutions and enhance teacher training. There are ongoing efforts to address learning challenges that have been exacerbated by the pandemic, including curriculum revisions and targeted educational programs.
Furthermore, CHED aims to work with the Department of Education to boost Filipino learners’ performance. This collaboration includes engaging Centers of Development and Excellence in Teacher Education, expanding the Technical Panel for Teacher Education, and developing modules on the implications of international assessments. CHED is also focusing on improving teacher quality and aligning its efforts with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028.
Contextualizing the Philippines’ performance
Understanding the broader context of education in the Philippines is essential to fully grasp the implications of these results. The country faces numerous challenges, such as limited educational funding, disparities in teacher training, and varying curriculum standards across regions. Additionally, socio-economic factors and regional disparities significantly influence educational outcomes. This context is crucial for interpreting the PISA results and identifying specific areas for improvement in the Philippine educational system.
In an interview, Philippine Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte acknowledged the country’s poor performance, revealing uncomfortable truths about the national education system and emphasizing the need for collective action to address these deficiencies. Duterte had previously initiated measures to enhance students’ reading skills in anticipation of the low PISA scores. The results reflect the nation’s collective commitment to education and its future direction.
“Pisa has provided us with valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of our education system. The PISA results may bear an uncomfortable truth. It has shown that a significant majority of our boys and girls fall below the proficiency level required for full participation in society and contributing to nation-building,” said Duterte.
Implications for educational policy
The PISA results for the Philippines are more than just numbers; they represent a call to action for policymakers and educational leaders. They underscore the urgent need for reforms in various aspects of the education system. Learning from higher-performing countries, the Philippines might consider adopting innovative teaching methodologies, enhancing teacher training programs, and increasing investment in educational infrastructure. Additionally, addressing socio-economic barriers to education should be a priority to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all students.
CHED is currently implementing AI training for both teachers and students across various disciplines. At an IT summit, CHED Chairperson Prospero de Vera III highlighted the importance of teachers understanding AI to integrate it into different subjects. Dennis Franco Layug, CEO of East West International Educational Specialist, emphasized AI’s applicability in industries like marketing, health, and architecture.
IBM Philippines’ president Aileen Judan-Jiao noted the growing relevance of AI in the job market. According to data from the International Data Corp., there has been a significant rise in AI adoption in Southeast Asia. A LinkedIn report stresses the equal importance of people skills alongside AI proficiency. Alfredo Antonio Ayala from the Private Sector Advisory Council emphasized the need for government-industry collaboration for workforce upskilling in AI. Furthermore, a member of the Philippine House of Representatives has urged overseas STEM training for teachers to bridge learning gaps. CHED plans to enhance digital education through ASEAN-China collaboration, with De Vera advocating for an ecosystem of digital education promoting digital literacy and inclusivity.
Looking towards a brighter educational future
In September, the United States, through USAID, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Philippines’ Second Congressional Commission on Education to improve the country’s education quality and outcomes. This partnership focuses on policy research, capacity building, and technical assistance.
Key figures, including USAID Mission Director Ryan Washburn and EDCOM II Co-Chairpersons Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian and Rep. Roman Romulo, signed the MoU. They highlighted the partnership’s significance in enhancing Philippine education and addressing challenges. USAID’s decade-long commitment has involved nearly $200 million in support of Philippine education. EDCOM II, a national commission, works on various educational sectors, including early childhood, basic and higher education, technical-vocational training, and lifelong learning.
The PISA 2022 results provide a crucial reflection point for the Philippines. While the current scores indicate areas of concern, they also offer a roadmap for improvement. With concerted efforts from the government, educators, and stakeholders, there is potential for significant advancements in the educational sector. By embracing change and focusing on targeted reforms, the Philippines can aspire to elevate its educational standards, ensuring that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
