Strengthened SHS curriculum fully implemented this coming school year

MANILA, Philippines — Education Secretary Sonny Angara has ordered the full implementation of the Strengthened Senior High School (SHS) curriculum in all public and private schools beginning school year 2026-2027 to improve the employability of graduates.

Under the Department of Education (DepEd) Memorandum 012, Angara directed all concerned officials and secondary school heads in both public and private institutions to ensure the rollout of the amended SHS curriculum.

“In line with the continuing efforts of DepEd to improve the relevance, responsiveness, and quality of Senior High School education, DepEd announces the full implementation of the Strengthened SHS curriculum in Grade 11 starting SY 2026-2027,” Angara said in his memorandum.

He said the strengthened curriculum introduces key structural, instructional and content reforms aimed at fostering mastery of foundational skills, expanding learner choice based on ability and aspirations and improving workforce readiness.

“These changes are designed to ensure that learners acquire relevant skills and competencies aligned with the demands of higher education, middle skills development, employment, and entrepreneurship,” Angara added.

The DepEd piloted the strengthened curriculum in 891 schools for Grade 11 students in SY 2025-2026, and these same schools are mandated to extend the program to their Grade 12 learners next school year.

In preparation for full implementation, Angara said DepEd offices at all governance levels are encouraged to undertake necessary preparatory activities.

“These may include curriculum mapping, academic and operational planning orientation for school leaders and teachers, coordination with relevant partners, and other initiatives to support the implementation of the Strengthened SHS curriculum,” he said.

He added that technical assistance packages — including guidance on school planning and workforce management, as well as training modules for core subjects and electives — would be made available online to both public and private schools.