Iloilo city: The Department of Education (DepEd) - Western Visayas has called on stakeholders to create a stronger education movement in the region. This was the challenge raised by DepEd - Western Visayas Director Cristito Eco as he delivered his Regional Basic Education Report at the opening of the 1st Regional Assembly of Education Leaders (REAL) at the Iloilo Convention Center on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Eco emphasized that a community cannot afford to say that education is somebody else's responsibility. He highlighted the urgency, opportunity, and shared responsibility among all stakeholders. For the next three years, DepEd - Western Visayas aims to pursue a clear direction focusing on inclusivity for every learner, empowerment for every teacher, improvement for every school, and engagement for every stakeholder.
Eco urged for an education system where excellence is accessible to all, irrespective of geography or circumstance, ensuring every child gains knowledge, skills, and confidence for a better future. He stated that the true measure of an education system is reflected through its learners rather than the quantity of programs, reports, or meetings.
DepEd data revealed a steady decline in net enrollment rates for elementary and junior high school over the past three years, while senior high school rates saw a slight increase. Transition rates dipped during School Year 2023-2024, with retention, promotion, and completion rates slightly recovering in 2024-2025. Despite a temporary drop, secondary graduation rates were high and elementary rates remained stable.
A notable rise in repetition was observed in secondary education in 2024-2025, with elementary school leaver rates lower than those in secondary education. Eco stressed that access remains a critical promise to uphold, as data indicates alarming concerns regarding accessibility.
Functional literacy also presents a regional challenge, as many learners struggle with comprehension, critical thinking, and practical application of knowledge. Eco emphasized the need to strengthen foundational learning and improve educational outcomes at all levels.
Eco identified five critical challenges requiring immediate attention: learning recovery and acceleration; teacher and school leader capacity; quality assurance and standards; equity, inclusion, and learner well-being; and governance, data, and accountability. He praised school division offices for their efforts in addressing gaps.
Eco concluded by urging for education to become a shared regional goal, moving from commitments to results, programs to impact, and isolated efforts to collective education.
