Improving PH learning gains needs strong LGU support – Angara

MANILA, Philippines — Improving the learning gains that the Philippines has made, as evidenced by its performance in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), would need the stronger and more active participation of local government units (LGUs), Education Secretary Sonny Angara said in a Department of Education (DepEd) statement issued on Friday. “LGUs played a vital role in the education sector. We need their stronger and more active participation to further improve the learning gains of our students,” Angara said. The education chief said that while LGUs have been instrumental in various aspects of education delivery, there is a need to intensify their involvement in key areas such as school infrastructure development, provision of learning materials, teacher training, and community-school partnerships. “We believe that with the strengthened partnership between DepEd and LGUs, we can achieve better learning outcomes for our students, and ensure that they are well-prepared for the challenges of the 21st century,” Angara added. The Philippines has been participating in the PISA, an international assessment that measures 15-year-old students’ reading, mathematics, and science literacy. The country’s performance in previous PISA cycles has highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in foundational skills and critical thinking. Angara stressed that the active involvement of LGUs is crucial in addressing these challenges, as they are best positioned to understand and respond to the specific needs of their local communities. “We are committed to working closely with LGUs to develop and implement effective strategies that will enhance the quality of education in our country. This includes providing them with the necessary support and resources to fulfill their roles in education,” he said. The DepEd is set to launch initiatives aimed at fostering stronger collaboration with LGUs, including joint planning sessions, capacity-building programs, and the establishment of clear guidelines for partnership. Information Source: Inquirer NewsInfo