The Department of Education in the Philippines has formalized a shift to a three-term academic calendar for public schools commencing June 8, 2026, aimed at enhancing learning continuity and addressing educational gaps.
The Philippine Department of Education (DepEd) has officially released the school calendar for the academic year 2026-2027, marking a significant shift to a three-term structure in basic education. Classes are scheduled to begin on June 8, 2026, and conclude on April 8, 2027. This new calendar aims to promote better pacing of lessons and provide more structured opportunities for assessments and learning recovery.
Under the new system, the school year will comprise 201 days divided into three terms. Each term includes an opening period, regular instructional days, and end-of-term activities. The first term will run from June 8 to mid-September, the second term from mid-September to early December, and the third term from January to late March, followed by final assessments in early April.
DepEd highlights that this change is part of a broader education reform package designed to support sustained student learning, reduce disruptions, and equip teachers with better tools for managing instructional time. Key accompanying initiatives include adjustments to the assessment system, streamlined lesson planning, and expansion of learning recovery programs such as the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) program.
The three-term calendar will be implemented nationwide in public schools starting in School Year 2026-2027. Private schools are allowed to adopt the system provided they meet the mandated number of school days. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to improving basic education and addressing gaps that have been exacerbated by disruptions in recent years.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/984611/deped-classes-to-start-june-8-end-april-8-under-3-term-calendar/story/
