Marcos extends EDCOM II’s life

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has signed into law a measure extending the term of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) for another two years in a bid to intensify efforts addressing the country’s learning crisis and align the national curriculum with global labor market demands.

“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 states.

Republic Act (RA) No. 12315, which amends the original EDCOM II Act (RA 11899), grants the commission the necessary breathing room to oversee the implementation of critical reforms and ensure that the transition from the classroom to the workforce is seamless and competitive.

Under the amended law, EDCOM II is tasked with providing strategic direction to align curricula, pedagogies, and assessment systems with globally recognized benchmarks.  

The commission will also focus on developing long-term solutions for school infrastructure, teacher qualification and training, and school leadership to ensure safe and effective learning environments.

Furthermore, the law mandates the commission to update the national education agenda to integrate emerging technologies, including digital and artificial intelligence, and green technologies. This initiative aims to “future-proof” the education system and strengthen the country’s overall competitiveness and workforce readiness.

During this extended period, the commission will work closely with several key agencies, including the Department of Education, the Commission on Higher Education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, as well as the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Department of Health.

The funding for the initial implementation of RA 12315 will be sourced from the available appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives, with subsequent funding to be included in the annual general appropriations act.

Signed into law on March 4, this will take effect 15 days post-publication in the Official Gazette. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking