NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
Third Regular Session
25 JUN11 P6 36
S.B. No.
INTRODUCED BY SENATORS ALAN PETER “COMPANERO” S. CAYETANO, 
PIA S. CAYETANO, FRANCIS “CHIZ” ESCUDERO, AND JOEL VILLANUEVA
AN ACT
CREATING A THIRD COMMISSION ON EDUCATION (EDCOM III), 
STRENGTHENING AND CONTINUING THE MANDATE OF EDCOM II 
TO ADDRESS THE NATIONAL EDUCATION CRISIS, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
“Everyone has a [purpose] and if you don’t take action, you are a 
generational thief because you stole from the next generation”''
The First Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM I) in the 1990s 
played a pivotal role in diagnosing the systemic challenges in the Philippine 
education system. One of its landmark recommendations - trifocalization - led to 
the creation of three specialized agencies: the Department of Education (DepEd) 
for basic education, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for higher 
education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority 
(TESDA) for technical and vocational education training (TVET).
The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), in its 
Year 2 Report, emphasized that this structural reform has been successful in 
improving subsectoral attention.2 Qualitative analysis revealed that government 
expenditure per student significantly increased post-trifocalization. However, 
despite this progress, the reform has not translated into significant improvements 
in completion rates and learning outcomes.3
A key barrier identified by EDCOM II is the lack of cohesive planning across 
these three educational subsectors. Previous efforts to create an advisory body for 
DepEd, CHED, and TESDA failed to establish a sustained and institutionalized 
mechanism for long-term strategic alignment between the executive and legislative 
branches. Without unified policies, Philippine education will continue to struggle 
with fragmented leadership and disconnected reforms.
1 Dr. Myles Munroe, Generational Thief: Lessons from Dr. Myles Munroe.
2 Second Congressional Commission on Education. (2025). Fixing the foundations: A matter of national 
survival {Year Two Report). EDCOM II.
3 Ibid.


To address this gap, this measure proposes the estabiishment of the Third 
Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM III), which will adopt a 
parliamentary-style approach by bringing together the heads of DepEd, CHED, 
and TESDA into a single coordinating body. Working closely with legislators and 
stakeholders, EDCOM III will serve as an institutional bridge to harmonize policies, 
align priorities, and ensure a coherent education roadmap. It will build upon the 
efforts of previous Commissions, providing a strategic foundation for policy, 
planning, and programming in both the executive and legislative branches.
The urgency of this reform cannot be overstated. The future of Philippine 
education in the coming decades hinges on the policies and structures established 
today. If the country is to produce a globally competitive workforce and ensure that 
education serves as a catalyst for national development, decisive and coordinated 
action is imperative.
At stake is the future of millions of Filipino learners. The education system 
must equip them with essential skills and open doors to greater opportunities. A 
unified and forward-looking vision must guide these reforms - one that fosters 
high-quality schools, an optimal learning environment, and a promising future for 
every Filipino. To move beyond past challenges, education must no longer be a 
barrier but a pathway to success.
The creation of EDCOM III presents an opportunity to institutionalize this 
vision. The Scripture tells us in Galatians 6:7, “kung ano ang itinanim, siyang 
aanihin” Indeed, by laying the groundwork for a truly cohesive and future-ready 
education system, we aim to foster sustained accountability and provide a better 
future for the next generation—ultimately transforming the nation by building the 
right foundations.
In view
sought.
of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly
ANO
ALAN PETER “COMPAfiERO” S. 
CAYETANO
FRANCIS “CHIZ” ESCUDERO
JOEL VILLANUEVA
2 -1


To address this gap, this measure proposes the establishment of the Third 
Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM III), which will adopt a 
parliamentary-style approach by bringing together the heads of DepEd, CHED, 
and TESDA into a single coordinating body. Working closely with legislators and 
stakeholders, EDCOM III will serve as an institutional bridge to harmonize policies, 
align priorities, and ensure a coherent education roadmap. It will build upon the 
efforts of previous Commissions, providing a strategic foundation for policy, 
planning, and programming in both the executive and legislative branches.
The urgency of this reform cannot be overstated. The future of Philippine 
education in the coming decades hinges on the policies and structures established 
today. If the country is to produce a globally competitive workforce and ensure that 
education serves as a catalyst for national development, decisive and coordinated 
action is imperative.
At stake is the future of millions of Filipino learners. The education system 
must equip them with essential skills and open doors to greater opportunities. A 
unified and forward-looking vision must guide these reforms - one that fosters 
high-quality schools, an optimal learning environment, and a promising future for 
every Filipino. To move beyond past challenges, education must no longer be a 
barrier but a pathway to success.
The creation of EDCOM III presents an opportunity to institutionalize this 
vision. The Scripture tells us in Galatians 6:7, “kung ano ang itinanim, siyang 
aanihin” Indeed, by laying the groundwork for a truly cohesive and future-ready 
education system, we aim to foster sustained accountability and provide a better 
future for the next generation—ultimately transforming the nation by building the 
right foundations.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly
sought.
PIA S. CAYETANO
ALAN PETER “COMPANERO” S. 
CAYETANO
FRANCIS “CHIZ” ESCUDERO
JOEk; VILLANUEVA


To address this gap, this measure proposes the establishment of the Third 
Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM III), which will adopt a 
parliamentary-style approach by bringing together the heads of DepEd, CHED, 
and TESDA into a single coordinating body. Working closely with legislators and 
stakeholders, EDCOM III will serve as an institutional bridge to harmonize policies, 
align priorities, and ensure a coherent education roadmap. It will build upon the 
efforts of previous Commissions, providing a strategic foundation for policy, 
planning, and programming in both the executive and legislative branches.
The urgency of this reform cannot be overstated. The future of Philippine 
education in the coming decades hinges on the policies and structures established 
today. If the country is to produce a globally competitive workforce and ensure that 
education serves as a catalyst for national development, decisive and coordinated 
action is imperative.
At stake is the future of millions of Filipino learners. The education system 
must equip them with essential skills and open doors to greater opportunities. A 
unified and forward-looking vision must guide these reforms - one that fosters 
high-quality schools, an optimal learning environment, and a promising future for 
every Filipino. To move beyond past challenges, education must no longer be a 
barrier but a pathway to success.
The creation of EDCOM III presents an opportunity to institutionalize this 
vision. The Scripture tells us in Galatians 6:7, “kung ano ang itinanim, siyang 
aanihin." Indeed, by laying the groundwork for a truly cohesive and future-ready 
education system, we aim to foster sustained accountability and provide a better 
future for the next generation—ultimately transforming the nation by building the 
right foundations.
sought.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly
PIA S. CAYETANO
ALAN PETER “COMPANERO” S. 
CAYETANO
FRANCIS “CHIZ” ESCUDERO
JOEL VILLANUEVA
2-3


iV'in '!- at I
NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
Third Regular Session
S. B. No. 3006
25 JiJ 11 P 6 :36
INTRODUCED BY SENATORS ALAN PETER “COMPANERO” S. CAYETANO 
PIA S. CAYETANO, FRANCIS “CHIZ” ESCUDERO, AND JOEL VILLANUEVA
AN ACT
CREATING A THIRD COMMISSION ON EDUCATION (EDCOM III), 
STRENGTHENING AND CONTINUING THE MANDATE OF EDCOM II 
TO ADDRESS THE NATIONAL EDUCATION CRISIS, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
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Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled:
Section 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Third Commission 
on Education (EDCOM III) Act."
Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State 
to make education a critical component of human capital development, socio­
economic equality, inclusive growth, and sustainable development. It shall 
formulate national education policies and plans in accordance with its 
constitutional mandate to establish a complete, adequate, and integrated system 
of education relevant to the needs of the people and society.
Towards this end, the State shall take appropriate steps to protect and 
promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels, recognize the 
complementary roles of public and private education, and take appropriate steps 
to make such education accessible to all.
Sec. 3. Creation of EDCOM III. - EDCOM III is hereby created to enhance 
and strengthen the mandate of EDCOM II. EDCOM III shall ensure the active and 
direct participation of the three education agencies, namely, the Department of 
Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the 
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), with the relevant 
Committees of the Senate and House of Representatives.
Sec. 4. Objectives of EDCOM III. - EDCOM III shall have the following 
objectives:
1. Ensure that the quality of Philippine education, both public and 
private, is at par with international standards by aligning its curricula, 
teaching methodologies, and assessment systems with global best 
practices;


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2. Determine and address challenges and gaps in school infrastructure, 
learning resources, and availability of well-trained teachers and 
educators to achieve the best learning environment for learners and 
students at all levels; and
3. Update the national education agenda and roadmap, as may be 
necessary to integrate the recent educational developments on 
artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and other emerging global 
advancements to future-proof the education system and the country’s 
workforce.
Sec. 5. Composition of EDCOM III. - Guided by the national strategic vision 
on education, EDCOM III shall work towards its common goals and priorities and 
shall be composed of the following:
a. As Co-Chairpersons:
i. 
Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education;
ii. 
Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and 
Vocational Education;
iii. 
Chairperson of the House Committee on Basic Education and 
Culture; and
iv. 
Chairperson of the House Committee on Higher and Technical 
Education.
b. As Commissioners:
Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education; 
Secretary of the Department of Education;
Director-General of the Technical Education and Skills 
Development Authority;
Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology 
(DOST);
Chairperson 
of the Senate Committee 
on Sustainable
Development Goals, Innovation and Futures Thinking; 
Chairperson 
of the House 
Committee 
on Sustainable
Development Goals.
IV.
V.
VI.
The members of the Commission shall receive no compensation, but 
travelling, communications, and other necessary expenses shall be allowed, 
subject to existing laws, and rules and regulations.
Sec. 6. Powers and Functions of EDCOM III. - EDCOM III shall have the 
following powers and functions:
a. Continue to review, monitor, and formulate an action agenda, policies, 
and programs to address education challenges, with primary focus on 
the following: stunting, learning poverty, high attrition rates, availability 
of well-trained teachers, digital infrastructure, emerging global 
industries and technologies, and skills mismatch in the country;
b. Coordinate with government agencies, local government units 
(LGUs), and other relevant sectors to promote policy and program 
coherence;
c. Serve as a regular forum for inter-sub-sectoral consultations and 
proposals for intervention to address cross-cutting policies and 
programs of the three sub-sectors of education, with a focus on


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proposing reforms in the basic education curriculum, scholarship 
grants, and voucher systems;
d. Submit annual reports to Congress on the progress of implementation 
of this Act; and
e. Perform other functions as may be necessary to implement the 
provisions of this Act.
Sec. 7. Standing Committees. - The members of the EDCOM III shall 
establish from among its members standing committees, to be chaired by such 
members or experts from multisectoral groups, and engage resource persons from 
the public and private sectors as may be needed.
The standing committees shall include the National Commission for Culture 
and the Arts and the Philippine Sports Commission in their respective 
consultations to ensure that arts and sports education are integrated into the 
education system.
Sec. 8. Advisory Support Council of EDCOM III. - The Advisory Support 
Council (ASC) of EDCOM III is hereby created to provide the Commission with 
expert assistance and advice.
The members of the EDCOM III shall always be present at all of the 
Commission's meetings. The Senate President and the Speaker of the House of 
Representatives shall choose recognized experts from the following sectors to 
form part of the ASC: two (2) members from the academe, two (2) members from 
the business sector, two (2) members from parents’ associations duly recognized 
by EDCOM III, two (2) members who are heads of LGUs, and two (2) members 
from civil society organizations and development partners engaged in education.
EDCOM III shall undertake the necessary measures to ensure the broadest 
possible, most inclusive and diversified composition of the ASC.
The members of the ASC who are government officials shall serve in the 
Council without any additional emoluments, allowances, or pay, by virtue of and in 
connection with the positions they have been elected to or appointed to, as the 
case may be.
Sec. 9. Technical Secretariat and Executive Director. - A Technical 
Secretariat, to be headed by an Executive Director (ED), shall be organized to 
provide technical and administrative support to the EDCOM III in the exercise of 
its powers and performance of its functions under Section 6 of this Act. The 
Technical Secretariat shall co-exist with the Commission.
The ED to be appointed by the Commission must be a recognized expert 
with experience both in the fields of education and management. The ED shall 
work full-time and shall have the rank, privileges, and emoluments of an Executive 
Director IV (Salary Grade 29).
Subject to the review and approval of the DBM, and in accordance with 
existing civil service laws, rules, and regulations, the members of EDCOM III shall 
determine the necessary human resource requirements in order to fulfill its 
mandate under this Act.


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Sec. 10. Meetings of EDCOM III. - The EDCOM III shall meet at least once 
every quarter, but may be convened by its Chairpersons to such special meetings 
as may be necessary. The members of the EDCOM III shall be duly notified of 
any meeting in advance. The first meeting of the Council shall take place within 
one (1) month from the effectivity of this Act, at a time and place to be designated 
by the Chairpersons.
Sec. 11. The National Education Agenda. - The national education agenda 
formulated by EDCOM II shall be implemented, monitored and updated by 
EDCOM III, as may be necessary. An annual report on its implementation shall be 
submitted to the Philippine Congress.
The national education agenda developed by EDCOM II, shall be subject to 
further evaluation by the other important stakeholders in education, such as the 
parents’ associations and school communities.
Sec. 12. Appropriations. - The amount necessary for the initial 
implementation of this Act shall be charged against the available appropriations of 
the Senate and the House of Representatives. Thereafter, the amount necessary 
for its continuous implementation, including any deficiency in the current year, shall 
be included in the annual General Appropriations Act subject to existing budgeting, 
accounting, and auditing rules and regulations.
Sec. 13. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part of this Act is declared 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining parts not affected shall remain in full force 
and effect.
Sec. 14. Repealing Clause. - All laws, executive orders, presidential 
decrees, administrative orders, rules and regulations, issuances, or parts thereof 
inconsistent with or contrary to the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or 
amended accordingly.
Sec. 15. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
Approved,