The Department of Education clarified that its proposed shift to a trimester system for public schools remains under review, and no final decision has been made.
The proposal, which would split the 201-school-day calendar into three terms, aims to improve lesson pacing, reduce administrative burden, and integrate events into classroom activities.
Teachers’ groups, including ACT and the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition, criticized the plan for a lack of consultation and questioned its impact on students.
DepEd said it is actively consulting stakeholders to ensure feedback from the field shapes any reforms.
The proposal follows a report by EDCOM 2 highlighting sharp declines in student proficiency and the need for systemic education reforms.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 18, 2026
