President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed into law the extension of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), giving the body an additional two years to continue pursuing reforms in the country’s education system.
On March 4, Marcos enacted Republic Act No. 12315, amending Republic Act No. 11899 and extending the commission’s mandate beyond its initial three-year term, which ended in December 2025.
The law takes effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.
“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 measure stated.
Reform Goals and Partnerships
Under the extension, EDCOM II will continue collaborating with the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Congress, and other partners to strengthen the education system.
The commission is tasked with ensuring that education and training programs align with national development priorities and labor market needs.
It will also guide policy reforms to harmonize curricula, teaching methods, and assessment systems with global standards and measurable learning outcomes.
LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS
EDCOM II will focus on addressing gaps in school infrastructure, learning resources, and teacher training.
It will also update the national education agenda to integrate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, digital tools, and green innovations, with the goal of enhancing workforce readiness.
Funding for the commission will initially come from the existing budgets of both chambers of Congress before being incorporated into deliberations for the annual national budget.