The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially announced its commitment to conducting extensive consultations with teachers and various stakeholders concerning a proposed transition of public schools from the current quarter system to a trimester system. This potential reform, which would affect students from Kindergarten through Grade 12, remains under active discussion as the agency seeks to gather comprehensive feedback before making any final decisions.
DepEd Emphasizes Stakeholder Engagement
In a statement released on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, DepEd acknowledged the concerns expressed by legislators, educators, and other stakeholders. The agency stressed that it takes these perspectives seriously, recognizing that structural reforms must be balanced with addressing systemic challenges such as classroom shortages and teacher welfare.
"The Department of Education acknowledges the concerns raised by our legislators, teachers, and stakeholders. We take these views seriously as we acknowledge that structural reform and systemic issues, such as classroom shortage and teacher welfare, are not mutually exclusive," the agency stated.
Ongoing Consultations and Future Plans
DepEd confirmed that it is actively engaged in consultations and plans to continue these discussions with education officials and stakeholders in the coming days. The goal is to ensure that all voices are heard and thoroughly considered in the decision-making process.
"DepEd is actively conducting consultations and will continue engaging education officials and stakeholders in the coming days to ensure that all voices are heard and considered," the agency added.
Objectives of the Proposed Trimester System
The intent behind the proposal is to support broader educational reforms aimed at simplifying planning, enhancing the use of academic time, and alleviating workload pressures on teachers. DepEd maintains its commitment to refining the proposal based on feedback from the field, with a priority on strengthening learning continuity while improving conditions for both learners and educators.
"Our priority is that any reform must strengthen learning continuity while improving conditions for both learners and educators," it emphasized.
Key Changes Under the Proposal
Under the proposed trimester system, the 201-day school year would be divided into three academic terms instead of four. This new calendar is designed to reduce teacher workload and protect learning time by minimizing disruptions from administrative tasks and observances.
The proposal forms part of DepEd's holistic approach to strengthen learning delivery by strategically organizing academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities throughout the year. This initiative reflects the agency's ongoing efforts to optimize educational outcomes and support the well-being of both students and teachers.
