The Department of Education (DepEd) has formulated a 5-point agenda aimed to address major issues in the Philippine basic education system.

In a news release on Tuesday, the DepEd said the strategic plan is anchored on the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure an enabling learning environment, the welfare of teachers, the well-being of learners, an efficient learning delivery in all its forms, and a future-ready workforce.

It noted that student learning losses were reflected in poor test performance in the recent Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), among other academic metrics, wherein it showed that 9 out of 10 Filipino learners are unable to read or comprehend simple text.

DepEd also highlighted the value of addressing the issue of teacher shortage and improving working conditions, including reviewing policies and responses affecting educators, such as during calamities and emergencies.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the priority agenda will be pursued with urgency through the remainder of this year.

“Moving forward, the Department emphasized that the 5-Point Agenda will be vital in unlocking some of the agency’s long-planned initiatives like decentralization of funds and resources; revival of the Public-Private Partnerships for infrastructure; and acceleration of digital adoption,” the news release said. (PNA)