EDCOM II Formally Submits Final Report and 10-Year National Education Workforce Plan
The Second Congressional Commission on Education, known as EDCOM II, has officially submitted its final report and a comprehensive National Education and Workforce Development Plan for the years 2026 to 2035 to the House of Representatives. This significant milestone marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to overhaul the Philippine education system and align it with the demands of the modern workforce.
Key Findings and Recommendations
In a privilege speech, EDCOM II Co-Chairperson Representative Jude Acidre outlined the commission's critical findings and presented the ambitious 10-year national plan. Acidre emphasized that while the challenges facing the education sector are profound, meaningful reform is not only possible but essential for the country's future. The report, titled "Turning Point: A Decade of Necessary Reform," serves as a detailed roadmap for addressing systemic issues and fostering sustainable development in education and labor.
Historic Funding and Legislative Achievements
Among the notable accomplishments highlighted by EDCOM II is the historic allocation of ₱1.37 trillion for education in Fiscal Year 2026. This represents the largest education budget in Philippine history, equivalent to approximately 4% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), underscoring a strong commitment to investing in the nation's human capital. Additionally, the commission reported significant reforms in the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), where the proportion of beneficiaries from the poorest families increased dramatically from 23% in 2022 to 61% in 2024, enhancing access to higher education for underprivileged students.
Addressing Higher Education and TVET Challenges
As Chairperson of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, Acidre identified several pressing issues in higher education and Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET). These include:
- Rigid credentialing systems that limit flexibility.
- Restricted mobility between skills training programs and degree courses.
- A persistent mismatch between the skills developed and the actual needs of the job market.
To combat these challenges, the commission has overseen the passage of ten crucial laws during the 19th Congress. Key legislation includes the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act (Republic Act 12063) and the Lifelong Learning Development Framework Act (Republic Act 12313). Furthermore, the establishment of the Education and Workforce Development Group (EWDG) has been instrumental in creating a unified planning framework that connects the Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
A Living Document for Future Reform
Acidre described the National Education and Workforce Development Plan for 2026–2035 as a guiding blueprint for the next decade of educational and labor reforms. He urged lawmakers to maintain the momentum of these initiatives to ensure long-term, positive outcomes for the Philippine education system and economy. The final report is envisioned as a "living document" that will continuously inform implementation, monitoring, and ongoing actions aimed at transforming education and preparing a skilled workforce for the future.
By basing its recommendations on robust data and real-world experiences from education sector stakeholders, EDCOM II aims to foster a more responsive and effective educational environment that meets the evolving demands of both students and the labor market.
