TARLAKENYO (Feb. 16, 2026) — Senator Bam Aquino is calling for a comprehensive review and extensive consultations regarding the Department of Education’s (DepEd) proposal to transition the basic education system to a trimester calendar.
The Concepcion, Tarlac native lawmaker stressed that while reforms to address learning gaps and teacher workloads are welcome, the feasibility of such a significant shift must be scrutinized through proper dialogue with stakeholders.
Aquino, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, confirmed that the Senate will conduct a hearing to evaluate the reform to ensure it is not implemented hastily.
The lawmaker’s reaction follows an announcement from Education Secretary Sonny Angara regarding a proposed shift for School Year 2026–2027.
Under this framework, the 201-day school year would be divided into three academic terms starting in June and ending in March. Each trimester would consist of an instructional block of 54 to 61 days and an enrichment block dedicated to remediation, grade computation, and wellness breaks for teachers.
“Before the DepEd implements the trimester system, it is important that it undergo extensive consultation. We will ensure that there is a Senate Hearing on this reform, to review and discuss it,” Aquino said in a statement.
The DepEd proposal aims to create longer, uninterrupted periods of learning.
Secretary Angara noted that the current calendar often suffers from frequent interruptions due to mandatory observances and administrative tasks that force teachers to prioritize compliance over instruction.
Aquino noted that his committee supports initiatives intended to help overloaded teachers, but he maintained that a cautious approach is necessary.
“While we recognize the need for extensive reform, let us ensure that it is not done hastily and that it goes through proper consultation,” Aquino said.
