Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the central role of research in shaping responsive and sustainable education reforms, reaffirming the Department of Education's commitment to data-driven and evidence-based reforms.

“We are accelerating our classroom construction program, with the help of our local government units and private partners. We are prioritizing and investing in our school-based feeding and early childhood care and development programs. We are revitalizing our curriculum to meet the demands of tomorrow and prepare our students for the future of work. We are making sure that our schools have enough learning resources and that our teachers are provided with the best support they can have,” Angara said in his message delivered by DepEd Region II Director Benjamin Paragas during the National Basic Education School Research Congress held on 27-28 February 2026, at the University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao (USLT).

“Because, as we understand in research, we can have good results—but only if we act on what evidence consistently tells us,” Angara added.

The Congress, organized by the Center for Basic Education Research of USLT, gathered educators, researchers, and students from across the country to present studies aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. DepEd recognized the importance of research platforms in advancing innovation and improving program implementation in basic education.

DepEd also noted how collaboration has helped bridge gaps, share resources, and champion best practices for the benefit of learners and teachers.

Angara encouraged learners and educators to continue strengthening a research-oriented mindset across schools nationwide.