Three-Term School Calendar Approved for Implementation Starting 2026
The Economy and Development (ED) Council has officially approved the implementation of a new three-term school calendar, set to begin with the 2026-2027 academic year. This decision, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on March 19, has immediately sparked significant opposition from the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), who criticize it as a rushed and top-down measure.
Details of the New Academic Structure
Under the reform, the current four-quarter system will be replaced with three terms. According to a statement from the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), this change is described as a critical step toward enhancing the national education system. The primary goal is to minimize classroom disruptions, following Department of Education (DepEd) data showing that 53 instructional days were lost during the 2023-2024 school year.
The new calendar will commence with a five-day Opening Block dedicated to learner profiling and administrative preparations. This will be followed by a 60-day Instructional Block for continuous teaching. Celebrations and other activities will be consolidated into a two-week End-of-Term Block, which will also include remediation for students and wellness programs for teachers.
Teacher Opposition and Government Defense
The ACT has condemned the policy, labeling it a hasty move that fails to address broader educational issues. The group argues that it exemplifies top-down decision-making, sidelining the voices of educators. In response, the DepEd has clarified that the policy underwent a series of consultations starting in January 2026, involving parents, teachers, school leaders, and legislators to gather input and feedback.
This reform aims to streamline the academic year and improve efficiency, but it highlights ongoing tensions between government initiatives and teacher advocacy in the education sector.
