Marcos OKs extension of EDCOM 2 to oversee education reforms

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. has signed into law the extension of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) for another two years, allowing it to continue overseeing education reforms.

This will further align the country’s education system with national development and workforce needs. Republic Act No. 12315 amended RA 11899, extending the commission’s life beyond its original three-year term, which ended in December 2025.

“Upon completion of the initial three-year mandate, the Commission shall continue to operate for an additional period of two years to conduct further research and consultations as may be necessary, and to exercise oversight over the implementation of the National Education and Workforce Development Plans,” the law read.

Under the law, EDCOM 2 is required to work closely with key government agencies such as the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Department of Health, as well as Congress and other partners, to help improve the country’s education system. 

This collaboration seeks to ensure that the country’s education and training programs are aligned with national development plans and the skills needed in the job market, while also supporting long-term improvements in the education system.

The commission is tasked to guide policy reforms that align curricula, teaching methods, and assessment systems with global standards and measurable learning outcomes. 

The goal is for the Philippine education sector to meet international standards.

Further, the EDCOM 2 is tasked with developing long-term, sustainable solutions to address gaps in school infrastructure, learning resources, training, and the professional development of teachers and school leaders, to create a safe, inclusive, and effective learning environment.

It is also mandated to update the national education agenda and roadmap to integrate advancements in artificial intelligence, digital and green technologies, and other emerging innovations to improve the country’s competitiveness and workforce readiness.

The funding needed to implement this law will come from the Senate and House of Representatives' available budgets. After that, the amount needed to continue carrying out the law, including any budget shortages, will be included in the annual national budget, following existing budgeting and auditing rules.

The law was signed by the President on March 4, and it shall take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. —LDF, GMA Integrated News