Education Secretary and Philippine Qualifications Framework-National Coordinating Council (PQF-NCC) Chair Sonny Angara has led the signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Lifelong Learning Development Framework (LLDF) Act or Republic Act No. 12313.
Signed on June 25, the IRR operationalizes the national mandate to recognize diverse learning pathways—ranging from classrooms and workplaces to community settings—under a unified framework.
The initiative aligns with the commitment of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen education and expand learning opportunities for all Filipinos.
“True lifelong learning is about recognizing that every learner’s journey is unique,” Secretary Angara said.
“By weaving together the strengths of our communities, industries, and education sectors, we transform our national framework into a lived reality that empowers every Filipino—whether in the classroom, the workplace, or the home—to realize their full potential, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in our rapidly changing world.”
Sen. Joel Villanueva, the law’s principal author and sponsor, noted that the IRR transitions the LLDF from legislation into practice. “The Lifelong Learning Development Framework Act is our roadmap to becoming a nation of lifelong learners,” he said.
The LLDF Act promotes learning as a continuous process, formalizing support for non-formal and informal settings to enhance the skills, knowledge, and competencies of the workforce.
Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Rafaelita M. Aldaba, who leads the PQF Secretariat, Policy and Planning Service, and Education Center for AI Research underscored the need for cross-sector collaboration. “Together, we are building lifelong learning ecosystems that expand opportunities, strengthen workforce competitiveness, promote lifelong employability, and empower every Filipino to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said.
Joining Angara in the ceremonial signing were PQF-NCC members, including TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, Economic Sector Representative Roberto F. Batungbacal, and Industry Sector Representative Celeste B. Ilagan.
Representatives from Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) were also in attendance, signaling whole-of-government support.
The program also showcased initiatives from Balanga, Bataan, and Quezon City—both members of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities—which demonstrate the successful application of lifelong learning principles at the local level.
The IRR takes effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
