The Department of Education–Davao Region (DepEd-Davao) has officially confirmed that the school year 2026–2027 will commence on June 8, 2026, and will adopt a three-term school calendar, replacing the previous four-term system.
Details of the New Academic Calendar
Jenielito “Dodong” Atillo, spokesperson of DepEd-Davao, announced during the Davao Peace and Security Press Forum on May 6, 2026, that the school year will end on April 8, 2027, comprising a total of 201 class days. He explained that the new three-term scheme is designed to provide a wider latitude for teaching and learning, allowing students more time to absorb lessons and enabling schools to shift to alternative learning modalities during disasters.
Structure of the Three Terms
Atillo detailed the breakdown of each term:
- Term One: 69 days, with 55 class days dedicated to the instructional period.
- Term Two: 65 days, with 56 class days for instruction.
- Term Three: 67 days, with 57 class days for instruction.
He emphasized that activities such as Buwan ng Wika should be integrated into lessons or conducted outside class hours, either in the afternoons or on weekends, with prior notice to parents.
Rationale Behind the Change
The shift aims to address compressed learning periods caused by class suspensions due to calamities and other disruptions. Atillo assured that the new system was rigorously studied by professionals and will ensure uninterrupted learning. He clarified that this scheme applies only to public schools, while private schools have the option to adopt it.
Presidential Approval
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has approved the three-term calendar, following the recommendation of the Economic and Development Council (EDC) as part of broader education reforms in the country. The old four grading periods will be replaced, with the goal of enhancing the continuity and quality of education.
