The Department of Education (DepEd) has spoken clearly — there is no mass promotion policy in place. In February 2026, DepEd Undersecretary Carmela Oracion made this strong statement in response to rising concerns about students moving to the next grade even if they haven’t mastered the lessons.
As a teacher and a parent, I’ve seen how confusion around this topic affects everyone — students, parents, and educators. Let’s talk about what DepEd really means, how they’re handling the issue, and why it matters for every Filipino student.
What Is Mass Promotion?
Mass promotion means passing all students to the next grade even if they didn’t fully learn the lessons or meet the standards.
People worry that this happens in schools — especially in big public schools where there are too many students and not enough teachers. But according to DepEd, this is not allowed.
DepEd’s Clear Message: No Mass Promotion
In a media interview, Undersecretary Carmela Oracion said:
“DepEd has no policy that promotes automatic promotion or mass promotion of students.”
This means there’s no official rule that says students should move to the next level even if they didn’t meet the requirements.
She admitted that some schools might face pressure to promote students, especially during hard times like the pandemic. But DepEd is working hard to stop that and ensure real learning happens.
Why This Statement Matters
This statement is important because it reminds schools and teachers that learning must come first. Promoting students just to “move them along” can hurt their future. Imagine being in Grade 10 but not knowing how to read well — how would that help anyone?
DepEd wants to fix these problems from the roots — not just cover them up.
How DepEd Is Fixing the Problem
Instead of just denying the issue, DepEd is doing something about it. Here’s how:
1. Remedial Programs Are in Place
DepEd has started remediation programs — extra learning activities for students who are falling behind. These lessons help them catch up, especially in reading, writing, and math.
As a teacher, I’ve used these programs myself. One student in my class couldn’t even write his full name in Grade 4. After 3 months of guided sessions, he can now write short paragraphs. That’s progress!
2. Teachers Are Getting More Training
DepEd is also helping teachers improve their skills. When teachers are trained to handle mixed learning levels in class, students get better support.
They’re giving out learning materials, training modules, and helping schools adjust to student needs.
3. Learning Gaps Are Being Tracked
DepEd told schools to monitor students more closely. This way, teachers know exactly who needs help and what kind of support they need.
No more guessing. This system helps focus time and resources on those who need them the most.
What Is “De Facto Mass Promotion”?
Even if there’s no written rule, some schools may feel forced to promote students just to meet deadlines or keep parents happy. This practice is called “de facto” mass promotion — it’s not official, but it still happens in some places.
That’s why the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) said these hidden systems must be removed. They want fair standards and real student evaluation.
Real Learning Should Be the Goal
Promoting students should not be about avoiding problems. If we move students up without learning, they only get more confused in higher levels.
Here’s what I’ve seen personally:
- A Grade 6 student couldn’t solve basic multiplication.
- A Grade 8 student still read at Grade 3 level.
- Some students don’t ask for help because they’re afraid of being left behind.
This is why DepEd is pushing schools to focus on learning, not just passing.
How Parents Can Help
As parents, we want what’s best for our kids. Here are a few tips I share with families in my community:
- Talk to the teacher regularly – Ask about your child’s progress.
- Don’t push for promotion – Focus on improvement, not just grades.
- Support learning at home – Even just reading 15 minutes a day helps.
What Schools Can Do
Schools can also do their part:
- Give remedial classes to those who need it.
- Be honest in grading and feedback.
- Provide clear communication with families about student progress.
Promoting students should be based on skills, not pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a DepEd rule that allows mass promotion?
No. DepEd clearly said there is no policy that allows automatic or mass promotion of students.
Why do some students still get promoted even when they’re behind?
Some schools face pressure or don’t have enough teachers and resources. That’s why DepEd is strengthening support and tracking systems.
What is DepEd doing to help struggling students?
DepEd started remedial programs, trained teachers, and asked schools to monitor each student’s progress.
What did EDCOM 2 say about this issue?
EDCOM 2 wants to remove all practices and systems that support hidden or “de facto” mass promotion in schools.
How can parents make sure their child is really learning?
Stay in contact with teachers, focus on learning at home, and ask for extra help if needed. Don’t be afraid to ask hard questions.
The education system in the Philippines is far from perfect — but this strong statement from DepEd is a good step forward. By saying “No mass promotion policy”, they’re making it clear that real learning should come first.
It’s not about just passing students. It’s about preparing them for life.
And that’s a message we can all support.
