ABOLISHING SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION ACT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 1, Article XIV of the 1987 Constitution mandates the State to "protect
and promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels and shall take
appropriate steps to make such education accessible to all." In pursuit of this
constitutional directive, Republic Act No. 10533, otherwise known as the "Enhanced
Basic Education Act of 2013," was enacted. The law aimed to establish a functional
basic education system that produces productive and responsible citizens equipped
with essential competencies, skills, and values for lifelong learning and gainful
employment.
The K to 12 program was envisioned to align the Philippine education system
with global standards. It sought to ensure that Filipino graduates would be
academically and professionally competitive, thereby eliminating the need for
additional years of high school for those seeking to pursue higher education abroad,
and enhancing the employability of graduates in the global workforce.
More than a decade since its implementation, however, the K to 12 program
remains the subject of public discourse and policy review. The program, while well-
intentioned, has raised concerns, particularly in the context of the country's prevailing
socio-economic conditions. Among the issues identified are:
a. Financial burden -The additional two years of Senior High School have imposed
considerable financial strain on families, especially those living below the poverty
threshold, due to added costs such as tuition, transportation, school supplies, and
b. Increased drop-out rates - The economic pressure associated with the
extended years of schooling has led to a rise in student dropouts, particularly
among those from disadvantaged backgrounds, thereby undermining the
program's goal of inclusive education; and
c. Curriculum effectiveness - There are continuing concerns that the current
Senior High School curriculum may still fall short in adequately preparing students
for employment or higher education, thereby necessitating further review and
improvement.
The implementation of the K to 12 program must be continually assessed in
light of the lived realities of Filipino families. It is imperative that education policies be
responsive to economic disparities and inclusive of mechanisms that mitigate financial
barriers to completion.
This proposed measure seeks to amend Republic Act No. 10533 by removing
the Senior High School component from the basic education curriculum. While
recognizing the importance of educational reform, this representation remains hopeful
that the government can adopt alternative strategies and design programs that are
effective, efficient, inclusive, and equitable—serving the best interests of Filipino
children and youth without the added burden of two additional years of schooling.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
SGD. ROBINHOOD PADILLA
Senator
SBN-1297
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