Public school teachers across the country are finally breathing easier as the Department of Education (DepEd), under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., slashes classroom paperwork by 57% through a sweeping policy reform.
The change, implemented through DepEd Order No. 06, s. 2025, reduces required forms for teachers from 174 to just five regularly accomplished forms. An additional 70 forms are now designated only for specific ancillary or teaching-related tasks, depending on a teacher’s assigned roles under DepEd Order No. 005, s. 2024.
“This move is a declaration that meaningful learning and teacher well-being go hand in hand,” said education secretary Sonny Angara. “We’re clearing the runway so teachers can fly.”
For teachers like Mark Anthony Asis of Camarines Norte, the shift is deeply felt.
“Mas makakapag-focus ako sa pagtuturo at magagabayan ko nang maayos ang aking mga mag-aaral,” he said. “Mas maraming oras na para sa paghahanda at pagbibigay ng feedback.”
The policy is part of President Marcos Jr.’s broader push to improve education outcomes by empowering educators and reducing bureaucratic burdens. A 2023 Pulse Asia survey found that 7 in 10 Filipino teachers felt overwhelmed by paperwork, which often took time away from lesson planning and student engagement.
Teacher Genelyn Trance of Iloilo City shared how the reduced workload has opened up time for collaboration.
“We have more time to share best practices and participate in team teaching,” she said. “It’s also improved our engagement in professional development.”
In Camarines Sur, Teacher Catherine Fajardo reported increased creativity and adaptability in her teaching approach.
“Nagiging mas innovative at flexible kami sa aming approaches,” she said.
DepEd’s move signals a cultural shift toward valuing quality instruction over compliance, with teachers regaining precious time to teach, mentor, and innovate.
“Binawasan natin ang pasanin ng mga guro,” Angara said. “Sa bawat gurong gumagaan ang trabaho, may batang mas natututo,” he stressed.
