The Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday clarified that the trimester system remains a proposal and that no final decision has been made.

In a statement, DepEd said it is "actively conducting consultations and will continue engaging education officials and stakeholders in the coming days to ensure that all voices are heard and considered."

The Education department further explained that the intent of the proposal is to support broader reforms that simplify planning, improve the use of academic time, and reduce workload pressures on teachers.

DepEd emphasized that it acknowledges the concerns raised by legislators, teachers, and stakeholders.

"We take these views seriously as we acknowledge that structural reform and systemic issues, such as classroom shortage and teacher welfare, are not mutually exclusive," the agency said.

The Education department said it remains committed to refining the proposal based on feedback from the field.

"Our priority is that any reform must strengthen learning continuity while improving conditions for both learners and educators," the agency added.