Edcom 2: Overcrowded School Calendar Shrinks Actual Learning Days

MANILA, Philippines — The Second Congressional Commission on Education (Edcom 2) has warned that an overcrowded school calendar, driven by Department of Education (DepEd) activities and large-scale competitions, continues to reduce actual classroom learning time.

In its final report, “Turning Point: A Decade of Necessary Reform,” the commission said that despite Republic Act No. 11480 extending the school year to 220 days, public schools average only about 191 actual class days due to more than 120 legislated activities and observances.

Events such as the Palarong Pambansa, National Schools Press Conference, and National Festival of Talents often require students and teachers to miss classes, forcing schools to compress an already congested curriculum.

Edcom 2 cited weak monitoring of DepEd policies meant to limit class disruptions, noting reports of overlapping exams, celebrations, and competitions held on regular school days.

The commission recommended restructuring major school events into curriculum-aligned activities while minimizing disruptions to regular classroom instruction.