The law institutionalizes lifelong learning as a national policy by integrating formal, non-formal and informal learning into the Philippine Qualifications Framework, allowing competencies gained through work experience, community engagement, technical training and other alternative learning pathways to be assessed and recognized.
Angara said the law aims to create a learning system that recognizes education as a lifelong process rather than one confined to schools.
"True lifelong learning is about recognizing that every learner's journey is unique," he said, adding that the framework seeks to connect schools, industries and communities to expand learning opportunities for Filipinos.
The law is expected to support workforce development by enabling workers to receive formal recognition for competencies acquired outside conventional academic programs, improving opportunities for employment, upskilling and career advancement.
Sen. Joel Villanueva, the principal author and sponsor of the measure, said the signing of the IRR moves the law from legislation to implementation.
"The Lifelong Learning Development Framework Act is our roadmap to becoming a nation of lifelong learners," Villanueva said.
DepEd Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba, who heads the PQF Secretariat, said implementing the law would require collaboration among education institutions, industry, local governments and national agencies to establish lifelong learning systems that strengthen workforce competitiveness and employability.###
