On August 24, the United States government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), unveiled a substantial Php283-million ($5 million) initiative aimed at assisting the Philippine Department of Education (DepEd) in tackling pressing education issues.
The project, known as “Improving Learning Outcomes for the Philippines” or ILO-Ph, will extend its support over a span of five years, focusing on enhancing DepEd’s ability to assess the quality of education received by Filipino students.
Implemented in collaboration with various partners, ILO-Ph seeks to bolster DepEd’s educational programs from early childhood education to workforce development. One of its key aspects is the provision of on-demand technical assistance, regular consultations, and training to bolster DepEd’s strategic communications and data analysis systems.
This will empower DepEd to closely monitor the progress of Filipino students in standardized exams and measure the recovery of learning lost due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, ILO-Ph will aid DepEd in conducting policy-relevant research, offering valuable insights to educators for improving teaching methods and positively influencing learning outcomes.
USAID Philippines Deputy Education Director Yvette Malcioln emphasized the enduring commitment of the U.S. government to its partnership with the Philippines, stating, “As an enduring friend, partner, and ally, the U.S. government, through USAID, will continue to work with local partners to make quality education accessible to all educators and learners wherever they are in the Philippines so we can build stronger and more prosperous communities.”
Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte hailed this new partnership as a “significant milestone” that aligns with DepEd’s mission to address fundamental education challenges under its “MATATAG: Bansang Makabata, Batang Makabansa” agenda. She highlighted the potential impact of policy-relevant research and technical assistance on both educators and young learners, emphasizing their potential to shape the future of the nation.
“In the face of challenges and changes, initiatives like ILO-Ph offer hope and inspiration,” Vice President Duterte stated. She expressed her wholehearted support for this noble project and encouraged all stakeholders to harness its transformative potential for the betterment of Philippine education.