DepEd tackles learners’ declining proficiencyThis file photo shows a facade of the Department of Education. MANILA, Philippines — Student proficiency was among topics tackled during the executive committee meeting presided over by Education Secretary Sonny Angara on the recent findings that Filipino learners’ proficiency rates decline sharply from Grade 3 to Grade 12. EDCOM 2 noted that in 2024, only 30.52 percent of Grade 3 learners were considered “proficient” or “highly proficient.”This means that approximately 70 percent of the learners continued to struggle with foundational skills at Grade 3. However, EDCOM 2 cited large learning gains among Grade 2 students following recent curriculum reforms implemented by the DepEd. Under the amended policy, learners progress based on demonstrated mastery rather than age or length of participation the DepEd said.

Source: Philippine Star January 22, 2026 16:35 UTC