President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the implementation of a three-term school calendar in public schools beginning School Year 2026–2027.
The change aims to extend uninterrupted learning time and reduce class disruptions caused by disasters and other unexpected events.
Under the new system, the current four grading periods will be replaced with three academic terms. Each term will have separate instructional days and assessment periods.
Based on the plan, each term will consist of approximately 54 to 61 instructional days, with designated assessment periods intended to improve lesson pacing.
Education officials said the new setup is expected to reduce lesson fragmentation and allow longer periods for students to focus on learning activities.
For teachers, the adjustment is also expected to lessen workload by removing one grading cycle. Officials noted that teachers will have designated time for professional development activities and wellness breaks under the revised calendar.
However, the Department of Education (DepEd) clarified that the three-term school calendar has not yet undergone pilot testing.
Despite this, DepEd reported that consultations were conducted with various sectors before the approval of the new system.
President Marcos also assured that the required 180-day contact period for both teachers and students will remain in place under the revised school calendar.
The President directed DepEd to ensure that public schools are fully prepared for the implementation of the new system.
Education authorities are expected to release further details on the transition as preparations continue ahead of the School Year 2026–2027 rollout.
