Law Summary
English Language Instruction Policies in Basic and Secondary Education
- English is mandated to be taught as a second language starting at Grade 1.
- From Grade 3 onwards, English is the medium of instruction for English, Mathematics, and Science.
- At the secondary level, English is the primary medium of instruction in both public and private schools, including laboratory, experimental, vocational, and technical schools.
- English instruction should comprise at least 70% of the total instructional time in secondary education.
- The policy aims to develop students' English proficiency to enhance employability in new, technology-driven sectors.
Promotion of English in Higher Education
- Higher education institutions, including State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), are encouraged to adopt English as the main language of instruction.
- CHED is tasked with implementing measures to promote and encourage English usage as the medium of instruction in tertiary education.
Enhancement of Teachers’ English Proficiency
- DepEd (through NEAP and EDPITAF), CHED, TESDA, and private educational institutions will evaluate and improve educators’ English proficiency.
- Nationwide training programs will be conducted to develop teacher competencies in English instruction.
Provision of Learning Materials and Monitoring Tools
- Implementing authorities must secure funding to provide adequate learning materials and resources for English language development.
- Collaborative development of evaluation instruments is required to monitor progress of educators and students towards policy goals.
Implementing Authorities and Monitoring
- DepEd and TESDA are directed to oversee implementation and monitor compliance in all elementary, secondary, non-formal, vocational, and technical educational institutions.
Rulemaking and Regulation
- DepEd, CHED, and TESDA are empowered to issue necessary rules and regulations to enforce the policy effectively.
Action Plan Submission
- Within 30 days from the order’s issuance, DepEd, CHED, and TESDA must submit an action plan to the President detailing strategies for implementation.
Use of Filipino Language
- Filipino remains the medium of instruction in Filipino and Araling Panlipunan subjects, supporting constitutional mandates for the development and enrichment of the national language.
Protection of Academic Freedom
- The Executive Order does not restrict academic freedom of higher education institutions, preserving institutional autonomy.
Repealing Clause
- All prior executive issuances, rules, or regulations inconsistent with this policy are repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon approval, underscoring urgency in policy enforcement.