Marcos Jr. says K-12 program failed to prepare students for jobs

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. acknowledged that the K-12 program has failed to prepare students for employment and has imposed additional financial strain on parents.

He echoed the frustrations voiced by lawmakers calling for the abolition of the mandatory Senior High School component of the K-12 program.

Marcos noted the significant expenses parents incur for two additional years of schooling, including matriculation fees, school supplies, and textbooks, without a corresponding advantage in job prospects.

He stated that while he shares the frustration, the decision to amend or repeal the K-12 law rests with Congress.

The Philippines is currently piloting a revised K-12 curriculum for the school year 2025-2026.

Employers still prefer college degree holders over K to 12 graduates, even for jobs that do not necessarily require a degree.