Jinggoy Estrada Proposes Removal of Senior High School Under K to 12 Program

Manila, Philippines – June 5, 2025 — Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada has filed a bill seeking to remove the mandatory Senior High School (SHS) level from the country’s K to 12 education system, arguing that it has failed to fulfill its intended goals.

Under Senate Bill No. 3001, Estrada calls for a “rationalized basic education program” that he says would better address the needs of Filipino learners. Instead of the current K to 12 structure, Estrada proposes a streamlined system consisting of one year of kindergarten, six years of elementary education, and four years of secondary education.

“The implementation of the Senior High School program has not yielded the promised employment and higher education advantages for our students,” Estrada said. “It is time to revisit the system and ensure that our youth receive quality education that is both practical and efficient.”

The SHS component, introduced under the K to 12 reform in 2012, added Grades 11 and 12 to the basic education curriculum with the aim of preparing students for college, employment, or entrepreneurship. However, critics like Estrada argue that many graduates still face difficulties in entering the job market or proceeding to higher education.

Estrada’s proposal is expected to ignite debates on the future of the country’s education system, particularly on whether the removal of SHS would improve or undermine students' readiness for the workforce and higher learning.

The Department of Education has yet to issue an official response to the proposed bill.