Why education should be an election issue

October 25, 2024

MANILA – During Philippine elections, public schools serve as a bridge of civic duty, connecting Filipino voters to the core of their democratic responsibilities. Schools are indeed the most accessible space in the community, serving not only thousands of voters during elections but also housing millions of Filipino children daily. This is why those who seek to truly serve the country should focus on improving schools, where their efforts can impact not just many students but also countless future generations.

Several elections have taken place in the schools, yet the very system remains to be overlooked. This neglect has resulted in alarming outcomes: poor Filipino student performance in reading, math, and science, high learning poverty with nine out of 10 children unable to read at age 10, and a persistent job-skills mismatch in the workforce.

These failures underscore the urgent need for educational reforms that extend beyond the election cycle and tackle the core issues in the system. Our children deserve an education that prepares them for the future; failing to provide this is an injustice to them and the country as a whole.

Given the profound and far-reaching effects of the learning crisis, we call on those who are running for public office to discuss clear, actionable plans and commitments on improving the quality of education in the country. Their platforms for education must also include plans to continue any positive reforms already in place.

Just as some leading senatorial candidates are banking on their tough, no-nonsense approach to drive reforms, we hope to see this same commitment applied to education. Rather than relying on public spectacle, the focus should shift toward meaningful policy