DepEd Boosts Public Communication at PACI Congress

DepEd Focuses on Partnerships to Expand Education Access

The Department of Education (DepEd) is actively strengthening its collaborations with both the Church and civil society organizations to broaden educational opportunities for underserved and out-of-school learners across the Philippines. This initiative, highlighted in recent engagements, underscores a commitment to learner-centered education reforms and a recognition of the vital role external partnerships play in reaching those most in need.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the importance of these collaborations during the 42nd National Social Action General Assembly of Caritas Philippines, held in Tagaytay City on February 3, 2026. He stated that effective education reform, much like pastoral work, necessitates a consistent presence within communities and a deep understanding of the daily challenges faced by students and teachers, particularly in areas with limited resources.

A key partnership involves Caritas Philippines and its extensive network of 86 diocesan social action centers nationwide. This collaboration aims to amplify the impact of crucial DepEd programs, including school-based feeding initiatives, learning recovery programs, and the Alternative Learning System (ALS). The ALS specifically targets out-of-school youth and other marginalized learners, providing them with pathways to complete their basic education.

“We take our inspiration from all of you. Your stories and successes drive us towards meaningful reforms,” Angara reportedly said, acknowledging the valuable insights and achievements of partner organizations. He further explained that these partnerships enable government programs to be more responsive to local conditions, addressing issues ranging from hunger’s impact on learning to the need for flexible educational options.

The DepEd’s commitment to addressing nutritional needs is exemplified by the expansion of the School-Based Feeding Program, now encompassing all Kindergarten and Grade 1 students nationwide. This expansion is based on evidence demonstrating a strong link between nutrition and academic performance.

the Department is scaling up learning recovery efforts through the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning Program. This program provides structured tutoring and remediation to millions of students who may have fallen behind due to disruptions in education.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to strengthen public communication and foster multi-sectoral partnerships in advancing basic education. The DepEd Region 2 recently conducted the 4th Public Affairs, Communication and Information (PACI) Congress alongside the 4th Gawad ACE BEN, reaffirming this commitment. The PACI Congress gathered information officers and education stakeholders to discuss strategies for effective communication and collaboration.

The Gawad ACE BEN, or Agency Contribution for an Ennobling Basic Education towards Nation-building, recognizes contributions from various sectors in supporting DepEd’s initiatives. The recent congress and awards ceremony served as a platform to celebrate these partnerships and encourage continued collaboration.

According to a regional memorandum from DepEd Region 2, dated December 2025, the 4th PACI Congress and 4th Gawad ACE BEN were also held in conjunction with a 4th Quarter Meeting and Press Conference, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to communication and stakeholder engagement.

The DepEd’s proactive approach to building partnerships reflects a growing recognition that addressing the challenges in Philippine education requires a collective effort. By leveraging the resources and expertise of the Church, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders, the Department aims to ensure that all Filipino learners have access to quality education and the opportunity to reach their full potential.