DepEd eyes curriculum integration, staffing boost in 2026 reforms

The Department of Education on Wednesday stressed the need to strengthen the country’s learning system through the seamless integration of curriculum, teaching and learning processes, assessment, learning materials, teacher training, and alternative learning delivery modalities.

For 2026, DepEd said it will prioritize the review and consolidation of special curricular programs while sustaining the implementation of the strengthened Senior High School (SHS) curriculum, including the expansion of Grade 12 elective offerings. Learners are also expected to gain clearer post-K to 12 pathways through the rollout of the National Entrepreneurship Challenge.

On learning resources, the department reported that most textbooks have already been procured and are expected to be delivered by June, ahead of the opening of the next school year. This will support the full implementation of the strengthened SHS program across public schools nationwide.

DepEd also reiterated that enhancing school-based staffing remains a key priority. The department is targeting the filling of 32,916 new teaching positions; 6,000 Principal I items; 11,268 Administrative Officer II items; 5,000 Project Development Officer I items; and 10,000 School Counselor Associate I items. In addition, more than 100,000 teachers are set to receive their “long overdue” promotions under the Expanded Career Progression system.

Human resource reforms will focus on transformational workforce development, supported by artificial intelligence-powered platforms for workforce planning, assessment of school head applicants, human resource deployment, and the streamlining of school forms. These initiatives are also aligned with the agency’s broader push to integrate technology into basic education.

To uphold its learner-centered mandate, DepEd said it will intensify learning recovery and continuity measures aimed at preventing learning losses caused by natural disasters, classroom congestion, malnutrition, absenteeism, and bullying.

The department also highlighted the increase in budget allocation for schools’ Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses, which rose from P48 billion in 2025 to P60 billion in 2026, to ensure school heads, personnel, and teachers are adequately supported in implementing programs on the ground.

"Sa tulong ng pondong ipinagkaloob sa atin ng ating mahal na Pangulo, President Bongbong Marcos, at ng Kongreso, patuloy nating isusulong ang mahahalagang reporma sa edukasyon—para sa Bagong Pilipinas," Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.