Malacañang on Monday said a proposal by the Department of Education (DepEd) to shift to a trimester academic calendar next school year remains under study, emphasizing the need for further evaluation and broad consultation before any decision is made.
At a Palace briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the plan is still in the proposal stage, with education officials presenting possible advantages of adopting a three-term school year.
“It is still a proposal, and they are laying out the possible advantages of having a trimester system,” Castro said.
“It would be better to conduct an early and thorough study on whether this should be implemented,” she added.
The proposal has prompted calls from teachers’ groups for wider public consultations. The Alliance of Concerned Teachers urged the government to ensure that stakeholders, including educators and parents, are consulted before any changes are finalized.
Castro said the Palace supports engaging stakeholders to determine the most suitable education program for students.
“It is better that all stakeholders and interested parties discuss this so we can reach the best possible program for our youth,” she said.
The DepEd has yet to announce a timeline for a final decision on the proposed shift.
