Philippine Education Faces Challenges Amid Reform Fatigue

COCOPEA Raises Concerns Over Education Pathways Act Amid "Reform Fatigue"

The Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA), representing over 1,500 private schools across the Philippines, has voiced its apprehensions regarding the ongoing wave of reforms in the education sector. In particular, the group has raised alarms about House Bill 11213, also known as the Education Pathways Act, which proposes significant changes to the existing K-12 program. COCOPEA warns that these reforms, if not carefully reviewed, could undermine the quality of education and negatively impact student outcomes.

Reform Fatigue in the Education Sector

COCOPEA has highlighted the issue of "reform fatigue", a phenomenon where the constant introduction of new policies and changes overwhelms educators, students, and institutions. While reforms are often well-intentioned, the group argues that they have not consistently delivered on their promises of improving learning outcomes. Instead, they risk creating confusion and instability within the education system.

The Education Pathways Act, which recently passed its third reading in the House of Representatives, is the latest in a series of proposed changes. COCOPEA has called for a comprehensive review of the bill to ensure that it aligns with the needs of Filipino learners and the broader goals of the education sector.

Key Provisions of House Bill 11213

House Bill 11213 introduces several major changes to the K-12 program, including:

• Optional Senior High School and Technical-Vocational Tracks: Under the proposed bill, students would no longer be required to complete Senior High School (Grades 11 and 12) or pursue Technical-Vocational (Tech-Voc) tracks. Instead, these would become optional pathways.

• Separation of Tech-Voc Programs: The bill suggests separating Tech-Voc programs from secondary education, placing them under the jurisdiction of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

While these changes aim to provide students with greater flexibility, COCOPEA warns that they could lead to unintended consequences. By making Senior High School optional, the bill risks creating a premature exit point for students, potentially limiting their future opportunities in higher education and employment. Additionally, the separation of Tech-Voc programs could weaken their integration into the broader education system, undermining their accessibility and effectiveness.

Upholding the Right to Quality Education

COCOPEA has emphasized that the proposed changes must not compromise the constitutional right to quality, accessible education. The group argues that the focus should be on enhancing the quality of learning rather than altering the structure of schooling. This includes addressing gaps in global assessments such as the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) and the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), where the Philippines has consistently lagged behind.

The organization has urged lawmakers to align the bill with the recommendations of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II). EDCOM II has called for targeted reforms that prioritize curriculum quality, content delivery, and governance, rather than structural changes that may disrupt the education system.

A Call for Thoughtful Reform

As the Education Pathways Act moves forward, COCOPEA continues to advocate for a careful examination of its potential impact. The group has called on Congress to conduct in-depth studies and consultations to ensure that the bill addresses the root causes of the education sector's challenges without creating new problems.

COCOPEA’s concerns reflect a broader need for thoughtful and evidence-based policymaking in education. By prioritizing quality over quantity and stability over constant change, the Philippines can build an education system that truly meets the needs of its learners and prepares them for the future.