The Department of Education (DepEd) has announced that it is actively conducting consultations with teachers and other stakeholders regarding a proposed shift in the academic calendar for public schools from Kindergarten to Grade 12. This potential change would move away from the current quarter system and adopt a trimester system, as confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
Consultations Underway for Structural Reform
In its official statement, DepEd emphasized that the trimester system remains a proposal at this stage, with no final decision yet reached. The department acknowledged concerns raised by legislators, teachers, and various stakeholders, stating that it takes these views seriously. DepEd highlighted that structural reforms and systemic issues, such as classroom shortages and teacher welfare, are interconnected and must be addressed comprehensively.
Goals of the Proposed Trimester System
The agency outlined that the objective behind the proposed shift is to support broader educational reforms aimed at simplifying planning processes, improving the utilization of instructional time, and reducing the workload burden on teachers. Under the suggested model, the 201-day school year would be divided into three academic terms instead of the current four quarters, potentially streamlining administrative tasks and enhancing learning continuity.
DepEd reiterated its commitment to refining the proposal based on feedback gathered from the field. "Our priority is that any reform must strengthen learning continuity while improving conditions for both learners and educators," the statement affirmed. The department plans to continue engaging with education officials and stakeholders in the coming days to ensure all perspectives are heard and considered before making any definitive changes.
