In-young "Angela" Hwang · NEWS · 2 min read · April 01, 2024

Set to take effect in A.Y. 2024-2025 targeting Kindergarten through Grade 10 students across the country, the Matatag Curriculum was launched by the Department of Education (DepEd) on August 10, 2023 and pilot-tested in selected schools on September 25, 2023.

The Matatag General Shaping Document published by the agency cited various difficulties encountered by the previous K-12 curriculum such as stagnant academic performance, indicated by results from national and international standardized assessments. 

Additionally, it indicated extensive research on learners’ nature and learning processes which underscored the necessity for basic education institutions to adapt to global future trends while addressing evolving learning challenges. These issues prompted a comprehensive reevaluation of the curriculum to ensure alignment with current educational needs and global trends. 

Featuring a strong focus on foundational skills, reduced number of competencies, and amplified values and peace education, the Matatag Curriculum aspires to equip students with concepts and skills mastery for success in higher education and the workforce. 

The term “Matatag” encapsulates the future direction of DepEd’s educational strategy: “Make the curriculum relevant to produce job-ready, Active and responsible citizens; TAke steps to accelerate the delivery of basic education services and provision facilities; TAke good care of learners by promoting learner well-being, inclusiveness learning, and positive learning environment; and, Give support for teachers to teach better.” 

Amidst this, CSA is bracing for the implementation of this curricular reform. In an interview, Mr. Ringo Blanca, Assistant Principal for Academics, shed light on the school’s proactive approach to this transition, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation and teacher training. 

To ensure successful implementation, the HS department will adopt a phased approach, gradually introducing the Matatag Curriculum to Grade 7 with significant changes to be anticipated in subjects such as Christian Living Education (CLE) and Social Studies (SS). 

For instance, CLE will be rebranded to include values education, aiming to instill Catholic, Christian, and Augustinian values in students and underscoring the school’s commitment to holistic education by nurturing learners’ moral and spiritual development alongside academics. 

Moreover, Mr. Blanca also mentioned that Grade 7 students can look forward to a revised curriculum that delves deeper into Southeast Asian and Philippine history, providing a more comprehensive understanding of regional dynamics. Subsequent grades will explore topics such as international relations and contemporary issues, ensuring that students are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern world. 

Acknowledging the significance of transparency and engagement with parents and stakeholders, the school plans to provide regular updates through bulletins and orientation sessions. 

As CSA embarks on this transformative move, Mr. Blanca expressed confidence in the school’s ability to adapt and excel under the Matatag Curriculum.

See related story: The drafted tales of Matatag