The Alternative Learning System (ALS) is a parallel learning system in the Philippines that provides opportunities for out-of-school youth and adult (OSYA) learners to develop basic and functional literacy skills, and to access equivalent pathways to complete basic education.

A viable alternative to the existing formal education system, ALS encompasses both non-formal and informal sources of knowledge and skills. As a second chance education program, it aims to empower OSYA learners to continue learning in a manner, time and place suitable to their preference and circumstances, and for them to achieve their goals of improving their quality of life and becoming productive contributors to society.

The 1987 Philippine Constitution provides for the recognition and promotion of other forms of education other than formal education. Article XIV, Section 2, Paragraph (1) declares that “the State shall establish, maintain and support a complete, adequate and integrated system of education relevant to the needs of the people and society”; and paragraph (4) concisely encourages “non-formal, informal and indigenous learning systems as well as self-learning, independent and out-of-school study programs particularly those that respond to community needs.”

The Governance of Basic Education Act, otherwise known as Republic Act 9155, stipulates the establishment of the Alternative Learning System (ALS) to provide out-of-school children, youth and adults population with basic education.

On December 23, 2020, the President of the Philippines signed Republic Act No. 11510, or “An Act Institutionalizing the Alternative Learning System in Basic Education for Out-of-School Children in Special Cases and Adults, and Appropriating Funds Therefor,” which provides the much needed support to further expand and strengthen the implementation of ALS throughout the country.

Filipino out-of-school children/youths and adults regardless of age including people with disabilities, Person Deprived of Liberty (PDL), children in conflict with the law, street children, solo parents, victims of abuse, kasambahay, rebel returnees, indigenous people and other people who for one reason or another, cannot afford to go through formal schooling.

• Out-of-School Children - 6-14 years old

• Out-of-School Youth - 15-30 years old

• Out-of-School Adults - 31 years old and above

Interested ALS learners should complete and submit the following requirements to ALS teachers in your area or to the Schools Division/District Office:

• Photocopy of birth certificate (PSA) / baptismal certificate

• 2x2 ID picture (white background)

• Form 137 (only for learners from the formal education system)

• A&E elementary level passer → Junior High School (JHS)​

• A&E JHS level ​passer → Senior High School (SHS) / TESDA

• A&E SHS level passer → college / TESDA / ​employment

• Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) Program

• Basic Literacy Program

• Life Skills for Work Readiness and Civic Engagement Program

Read more about ALS Programs at https://www.deped.gov.ph/als-programs/