The Philippine government has taken a significant step forward in addressing educational setbacks with the implementation of the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program Act. The signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) occurred at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, marking a swift response just 34 days after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed the law into effect. Education Secretary Edgardo Angara, alongside key figures such as Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Joel Villanueva, and Representative Roman Romulo, were present at the signing, highlighting the urgency and commitment to this initiative.
Secretary Angara emphasized the long-term benefits of the ARAL Law, particularly in enhancing students’ critical thinking skills. He stated that the program aims to improve students’ abilities over time, which is crucial for their educational development. The swift drafting of the IRR was commended by lawmakers, with Senator Gatchalian noting that the process was completed well within the 60-day period initially set by the law.
The ARAL Law focuses on providing targeted free learning interventions to students who are struggling, with specific goals to enhance foundational skills for Kindergarten learners and improve literacy and numeracy for students from Grades 1 to 10. This initiative is seen as a vital tool in addressing the learning loss experienced by many students.
In addition to the ARAL Program, President Marcos has committed to finding solutions to restore a PHP10 billion cut from the Department of Education’s (DepEd) computerization program in the proposed 2025 budget. Secretary Angara has been tasked with coordinating with other Cabinet members, including Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, to explore various funding alternatives such as savings, augmentation of existing items, and unprogrammed appropriations.
Angara also highlighted the importance of securing funds to maintain existing partnerships with the private sector, such as those with Smart for free Internet and Khan Academy for AI tools, which are essential for enhancing the DepEd’s computerization efforts. He stressed that without adequate funding, these partnerships would be rendered ineffective, underscoring the need for continued financial support to ensure the success of educational initiatives.