Philippines to Revise ‘Matatag’ Curriculum Based on Teacher Feedback, Says Education Secretary Angara

MANILA — Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced on Tuesday that the Philippine Department of Education will revise the ‘Matatag’ curriculum, initially implemented during Vice President Sara Duterte’s tenure as education chief, based on feedback from teachers. The curriculum aims to strengthen foundational education but has faced criticism for its pace and structure.

According to Philippines News Agency, the department has issued orders for the curriculum, but widespread comments from educators have prompted a reevaluation. “We have issued a department order on that, setting for the curriculum but we have also received many comments on that. So, we will be sensitive to the comments,” Angara stated during a Palace press briefing. The Matatag curriculum, which focuses on core subjects like language, mathematics, and national values, was introduced this school year in select grades and will expand to additional levels next year.

Feedback from teachers has highlighted concerns over the curriculum’s dense scheduling and rapid pace, which some educators believe may not effectively accommodate learning needs. “Sometimes they say, the subjects are too compressed; the subject is too fast, 45 minutes. Some are suggesting six one-hour classes rather than eight 45-minute classes,” explained Angara. The department is considering these inputs seriously, balancing educational goals with logistical and human resource challenges.

Angara emphasized the department’s commitment to listening to educators and adapting the curriculum to better meet the needs of both teachers and students. “For us, we will listen and whatever the consensus is, we’ll try to adapt the recommendations going forward, if the recommendation is good,” he added, indicating a collaborative approach to future curriculum adjustments.