DepEd to administer alternative learning test in Bangkok

Philippine education officials will administer the "Alternative Learning System Accreditation and Equivalency" (ALS A&E) test in Bangkok, Thailand on February 19.   The Philippine Embassy in Bangkok said the test will be held at the embassy's conference room on February 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. An official examiner/trainer from the Bureau of Alternatives Learning System (BALS) of the Department of Education (DepEd) will administer the test.   "Those who pass it will receive a certification of learning achievement signed by the Secretary of the Philippine Department of Education at two learning levels – Elementary and Secondary – that is comparable to having attended formal schooling in the Philippines," the embassy said in a news release.   The ALS A&E Tests in both levels are standardized paper and pencil-based tests and use multiple-choice test and composition writing.    With the certificate, a test passer can:

• enroll in post secondary courses (technical, vocational, two-, four-, five-year courses) at private colleges and universities and government-owned or controlled educational institutions in the Philippines;

• access skills training programs offered by the MFI Foundation Inc (MFI) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA);

• acquire civil service eligibility for Philippine government employment positions.

Eligibility   Filipinos at least 11 years old (for elementary level test) and at least 15 years old (for the secondary level test) may take the test. They may include:

• out-of-School Youth and adults;
• elementary and secondary school drop-outs/leavers;
• industry-based workers, housewives, maids, factory workers, drivers;
• members of indigenous cultural communities; and 
• persons with disabilities or who are physically challenged.

  Registration   The registration will be held on Saturday, February 18, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Philippine Embassy conference room.   Prospective test-takers can also pre-register by calling 086-3222716/ 085-3598223.    All prospective test takers must provide any of the following documents as proof of their identity:

• valid Philippine passport; and
• two 1"x1" copies of their photo taken within the last six months.

- VVP, GMA News