The Department of Education (DepEd) has expanded the Alternative Learning System (ALS) to provide more flexible and credible education pathways for out-of-school children, youth, and adults, aligning the program with the K to 12 curriculum and practical skills needed for work and daily life.
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the human impact of the reforms through the story of 81-year-old Eduardo Saplala, an Aeta learner from Porac, Pampanga, who is currently enrolled in the ALS Basic Literacy Program. His return to learning was made possible through the revised ALS guidelines, which institutionalize community-based instruction, flexible pacing, and competency-based assessment.
Angara said Saplala’s story proves that education has no age limit, emphasizing that ALS is being strengthened as a legitimate and long-term education pathway rather than a temporary or last-resort option.
The expansion supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda for inclusive growth by ensuring education opportunities reach learners who were previously left behind.
Under DepEd Order No. 1, series of 2026, ALS implementation has been standardized nationwide, with competencies aligned to the K to 12 curriculum. The policy formally recognizes flexible learning options, prior learning, and micro-certifications, allowing learners to progress based on demonstrated competencies rather than age or length of enrollment.
The revised framework also clearly defines ALS pathways, covering Basic Literacy, Accreditation and Equivalency at the elementary and junior high school levels, and senior high school. ALS completers may return to formal schooling, pursue technical-vocational education, or directly enter employment.
To further expand access, DepEd is strengthening partnerships with local government units, higher education institutions, non-government organizations, and private groups to operate community learning centers and provide specialized instruction. Capacity-building programs for ALS teachers and improved monitoring and evaluation systems have also been institutionalized to track learner outcomes nationwide.
Starting school year 2026–2027, all schools division offices are directed to fully implement the revised ALS curriculum for Basic Literacy and Accreditation and Equivalency programs, with separate guidelines to be issued for the strengthened ALS senior high school track.
DepEd said learner stories like Saplala’s reflect the goal of the enhanced ALS—to deliver accessible, flexible, and quality education opportunities for Filipinos at any stage of life.
