DepEd swiftly moves to implement ARAL Program Act to tackle learning loss

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In a clear demonstration of urgency and commitment, the Department of Education (DepEd) has finalized the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program Act (Republic Act No. 12028), just 34 days after it was signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The swift action underscores DepEd’s focus on addressing the persistent learning losses exacerbated by the pandemic, particularly for struggling learners.

During the ceremonial signing of the IRR, lawmakers commended Secretary Sonny Angara’s leadership and fast-tracked response in drafting the IRR.

“Sa sobrang bilis ho ni [Sec. Angara], in 34 days from the effectivity of this Act, mayroon ng IRR. In the law, kami ni Congressman [Roman Romulo] identified 60 days or we permitted 60 days for the IRR to come out,” Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, the principal author of ARAL Program Act, said.

“Kagaya ng sabi ni Senator Sherwin, masyadong mabilis ‘yung DepEd Secretary. Masyadong mabilis,” Senator Joel Villanueva remarked.

The ARAL Program Act provides targeted learning interventions for Filipino learners struggling to meet grade-level competencies. The program aims to build foundational skills for Kindergarten learners while enhancing literacy and numeracy competencies for Grades 1 to 10.

“Walang dapat maiwan, no child will be left behind... ito talaga yung batas na makatutulong sa kanila,” House Committee on Basic Education Chair Rep. Roman Romulo said.

On his part, Sec. Angara vowed to carry out the law’s objectives as he recognized individuals and organizations who provided valuable input during its development phase.

“We will work very closely with [Congress] to ensure that the spirit and the letter of the law are respected and followed,” Angara said.

“Sa pangmatagalan, makakatulong siya dahil gaganda yung abilidad ng ating estudyante, especially sa sinasabi na critical thinking,” he noted.

The ceremonial signing was also attended by KALINGA Partylist Rep. Irene Gay Saulog, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, members of the DepEd Executive Committee, and teacher groups.