The Department of Education (DepEd) clarified that there is no “auto-pass” policy in public schools and affirmed its commitment to address literacy gaps in line with President Bongbong Marcos’ directive.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara acknowledged that some inherited systems and incentives may unintentionally pressure schools to promote students, but emphasized that such trends are being corrected.
“Wala pong policy ang DepEd na automatic na pagpasa sa mga estudyante,” said Angara. “But certain features of the system may be reinforcing that quietly, and we aim to change it.”
Angara stressed that DepEd uses a broader evaluation system for performance, covering results, processes, finances, and citizen satisfaction, not just promotion rates.
To improve learning outcomes, DepEd is reviewing its assessment, remediation, and promotion policies to ensure students move up based on actual learning, supported by fairer standards and teacher evaluations.
“Mass promotion isn’t official policy, but in some areas, it’s become an unwritten norm,” Angara said. “We want a system where promotion is earned and real learning is enabled.”
