DepEd Says Proposed Shift to Trimester System Still Under Study

The Department of Education clarified on Thursday that its proposal to shift to a trimester system remains under review and has not yet been finalized.

In a statement, the agency said consultations are still ongoing regarding the proposed academic calendar reform.

The clarification came after some lawmakers and educators raised concerns about the readiness of schools to implement the change, particularly its possible impact on classroom shortages, teacher workload, and other operational challenges.

DepEd acknowledged that structural reforms and long-standing systemic issues, such as the lack of classrooms and concerns over teacher welfare, are interconnected and need to be addressed together.

The agency added that the proposed shift aims to support broader education reforms by simplifying academic planning, improving the use of instructional time, and easing workload pressures on teachers.

“DepEd remains committed to refining the proposal based on feedback from the field. Our priority is that any reform must strengthen learning continuity while improving conditions for both learners and educators.”