Efficiency is a different thing
The Supreme Court has upheld the legality of the K to 12 system of the government five years after the law took effect as it junked the consolidated petitions filed by schools, teachers, and organizations questioning the program’s constitutionality.
At least nine associate justices and then Chief Justice Teresita Leonardo-De Castro voted in favor of law, vouching for the constitutionality of Republic Act 10533 or the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013.
Three associate justices were not present during the promulgation. Associate justices Lucas Bersamin and Alexander Gesmundo were on official business while Associate Justice Jose Reyes Jr. was on leave.
The high court, in a decision penned by Associate Justice Benjamin Caguioa, said the K to 12 law was legal since it underwent public hearings. Of course, the Department of Education would welcome the development with Secretary Leonor Briones hoping the Supreme Court decision would settle the issue once and for all.
The purpose of the K to 12 law is to overhaul the country’s educational system in order for it to be at par with international standards. A very important part of the law is the two-year extension of the secondary level as a preparatory step for college.
There is really no question about the additional two years. In fact, many countries – especially those in the First World – have long been embracing the K to 12 method as part of the move to revolutionize their educational system.
However, it remains to be seen whether or not the system will be effective in the country where majority of the inhabitants are poor. The additional two years in high school would certainly be a burden for them.
We can only expect many students choosing to look for work after graduating high school because, aside from the pursuit of college education becoming optional due to its being expensive, they are already equipped with vocational knowledge enough for them to land a job.
The Supreme Court has spoken that the K to 12 law is constitutional. But as to its effectiveness, that remains to be seen.