A Senate measure that seeks to extend the duration of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) will be crucial in addressing the deep-seated challenges in the country’s education system.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, co-sponsor of the measures and chairperson of the Senate Committee on Youth, underscored the significance of EDCOM II’s ongoing work in identifying the roots of the educational crisis and guiding policymakers in crafting responsive solutions. 

An extension of its existence allows the commission to continue producing data-driven research and comprehensive reports that are crucial to shaping legislative reforms aimed at improving access and quality in Philippine education.

“Mr. President, it is my honor to co-sponsor the measure that seeks to extend the duration of the Second Congressional Commission on Education, or EDCOM II, a body that has become a beacon of insight and reform in our nation’s education system,” Go said.

Various studies have placed the Philippines at the bottom of academic proficiency and literacy ratings in the region.

Go, thus, acknowledged the commission’s vital role in highlighting the scale of existing education problems, which have long hampered student learning outcomes and teacher well-being. 

“It is through EDCOM II’s comprehensive reports and studies that we clearly saw the real state of our education system, the high dropout rates, the 165,000 classroom backlog, the learning gaps, and the inequities that persist across the region,” he said.

Evidence-based approach

The senator noted that EDCOM II’s findings provided clarity and direction for legislative and institutional action, bridging the gap between research and policy. 

He added that the commission’s independence and empirical approach ensure that reforms are anchored in evidence rather than conjecture.

“Through EDCOM II, we have gained a clearer understanding of the depth and breadth of the problems within our education system. These are not mere assumptions but are grounded in data, consultations and thorough analysis. Their report contains the stories of Filipino children struggling to read, classrooms in short supply, and teachers burdened with overwhelming responsibilities.,” Go said.

He also lauded the commission’s approach to gathering testimonies and insights from those on the ground, stressing that the reforms being pursued must always be informed by the lived experiences of teachers and students alike.

“EDCOM II has proven to be an effective and independent body, producing evidence-based research and concrete policy recommendations that guide the Congress, the Executive, and our education agencies in crafting solutions that truly address the systemic problems in our schools,” Go stated.

The senator maintained that the extension of EDCOM II’s mandate is both “wise and necessary,” as the challenges identified by the commission require sustained, coordinated effort across government sectors. 

Continuity of EDCOM II’s work would help prevent policy fragmentation and ensure the long-term implementation of reform.

“Mr. President, I believe it is both wise and necessary to extend EDCOM II’s duration. Their research continues to guide us in crafting reforms that can genuinely improve the quality and accessibility of education for every Filipino learner,” Go said.

Geriatric Center bill set

Go also co- sponsored the Philippine Geriatric Center (PGC) bill during the Senate plenary session as he underscored that taking care of the elderly is part of Filipino culture. 

Under Senate Bill 1302, or the proposed PGC Act, there shall be a dedicated tertiary specialty hospital for older people and the aging population under the direct control and supervision of the Department of Health. 

“Through the establishment of the PGC, the government stays true in its pursuit of guaranteeing the right to health of our senior citizens by ensuring that holistic health services are available and accessible to them,” Go explained.