Clowie Zarene Y.

Merdegia

BSED3A

MODULE 6: THE MATATAG CURRICULUM

What is the Matatag Curriculum in the Philippines?

The MATATAG Curriculum is the Philippines’ newly revised K to 10 basic education program,
officially launched by the Department of Education (DepEd) on August 10, 2023, under the
leadership of Vice President and then-Education Secretary Sara Duterte. It was designed to
address long-standing issues in the country’s education system and better equip Filipino learners
for the challenges of the modern world.
At the heart of the MATATAG Curriculum is the goal of simplifying and strengthening what
students learn in school. It reduces the number of subjects from seven to five in the early grades,
putting greater focus on key areas like language, reading and literacy, mathematics, values
education (specifically good manners and right conduct), and civic education under the subject
called “Makabansa.” This more focused approach aims to give students a stronger foundation in
essential skills while easing their academic load.
One significant change is that the Mother Tongue is no longer taught as a separate subject.
However, it will still be used as a medium of instruction in early education, especially to help
young learners better understand lessons and feel more included in the classroom
environment.The curriculum also puts a spotlight on foundational skills such as reading, writing,
and numeracy, with the hope of ensuring every student becomes equipped with the basics they
need before moving on to more complex topics. At the same time, it promotes inclusivity by
incorporating local languages and cultural contexts, making learning more relatable and
respectful of the country’s diverse heritage.
The implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum is being done gradually. Starting in the
school year 2024–2025, it will first be applied to Kindergarten and Grades 1, 4, and 7. In the
following years, other grade levels will follow, until full implementation reaches Grade 10 by the
school year 2027–2028. The MATATAG Curriculum is part of a bigger initiative called the
MATATAG Agenda. This agenda is centered on four major commitments: making the
curriculum more relevant to help students become competent and responsible citizens,
accelerating the delivery of basic education services and facilities, prioritizing the well-being and
inclusivity of learners, and giving stronger support to teachers so they can grow in their
profession and better serve their students.
In essence, the MATATAG Curriculum represents a bold step forward for Philippine education,
one that aims to create a more focused, inclusive, and future-ready learning experience for every
Filipino child.
Why is the MATATAG Curriculum being introduced in the DepEd and in the Philippines?
When and Up to when?
The MATATAG Curriculum is being introduced in the Philippines because the Department of
Education saw the need to improve the quality of basic education. For years, many teachers,
students, and parents have pointed out that the current K to 12 curriculum is too packed with
subjects, making it hard for students to really master what they’re supposed to learn. Instead of
gaining a strong understanding of the basics like reading, writing, and math, students often end
up overwhelmed. That’s why DepEd decided it was time for a change. This new curriculum aims
to simplify what’s being taught, so students can focus more on foundational skills. It also puts
more importance on values like good manners and love for country, making education not just
about academics, but also about building character. Another goal is to make sure that what
students learn is relevant to today’s world—helping them gain skills they’ll need in real life and
in future jobs, while also staying true to Filipino culture and identity.
The rollout of the MATATAG Curriculum started in the school year 2024–2025 with
Kindergarten and Grades 1, 4, and 7. Then, more grade levels will follow in the next school
years: Grades 2, 5, and 8 in 2025–2026, Grades 3, 6, and 9 in 2026–2027, and finally Grade 10
in 2027–2028. The curriculum for Senior High School is also being reviewed and will be
released later. By introducing the MATATAG Curriculum step by step, DepEd hopes to give
schools and teachers enough time to adjust and ensure that students truly benefit from this more
focused and meaningful approach to learning.

What are the main features of the MATATAG curriculum?

The MATATAG Curriculum comes with several key features that aim to improve the way
Filipino students learn by making the curriculum more focused, practical, and relevant to their
needs. Here are its main features, explained in a more natural and humanized way: One of the
biggest changes in the MATATAG Curriculum is the reduction of learning areas in the early
grades. Instead of juggling seven subjects, students will now concentrate on five core areas:
Language, Reading and Literacy, Mathematics, Makabansa (which includes lessons on civic and
national identity), and Good Manners and Right Conduct. This makes learning more manageable
and allows students to really understand and master the basics.
Another important feature is the shift in how the Mother Tongue is taught. While it will no
longer be a separate subject, it will still be used as a medium of instruction in early education.
This helps young learners feel more comfortable and connected in the classroom, especially
when learning new concepts for the first time. The curriculum also puts a strong emphasis on
foundational skills. It focuses on strengthening reading, writing, and numeracy in the early years,
which are essential building blocks for learning more complex subjects later on. This helps
students become more confident and better prepared for future lessons.
Aside from academics, the MATATAG Curriculum values character development. Lessons in
values education and citizenship are given more space, teaching students how to be responsible,
respectful, and active members of their communities. Lastly, the curriculum is designed to be
inclusive and culturally relevant. It reflects the diversity of Filipino learners by considering local
contexts and making education more relatable to their everyday lives.

In short, the MATATAG Curriculum aims to simplify learning, focus on what truly matters, and
help students grow not just in knowledge, but also in values and identity.

What roles do current schools teachers assume in the MATATAG Curriculum?

In the MATATAG Curriculum, teachers play an even more crucial role than ever. With the
changes being introduced, they’re not just facilitators of learning—they're also mentors, guides,
and advocates for student development. Their roles have become more dynamic and learner-
centered, aiming to meet the needs of every student in a more focused and meaningful way.

One of the most important roles teachers take on is helping students master foundational skills.
Since the MATATAG Curriculum places strong emphasis on literacy, numeracy, and values
formation, teachers are expected to create learning experiences that build these core
competencies step by step. This means they have to carefully plan lessons that are engaging,
clear, and developmentally appropriate. Teachers also serve as curriculum implementers. They
are expected to understand the new structure and goals of the MATATAG Curriculum, align
their strategies with the simplified learning areas, and ensure that students meet the intended
learning outcomes. Because the curriculum is being rolled out gradually, teachers are at the
frontline of adapting, adjusting, and giving feedback about what works and what needs
improvement.

Another important role is being inclusive educators. The MATATAG Curriculum encourages
inclusivity and cultural relevance, so teachers must be sensitive to the backgrounds and needs of
their students. They are expected to create a safe and respectful classroom environment where
every learner feels valued and understood, regardless of their language, culture, or learning pace.
Beyond academics, teachers take on the role of character builders. Since values education and
“Makabansa” are key components of the curriculum, teachers are also role models who help
students develop empathy, discipline, love for country, and respect for others. They help students
connect lessons to real-life situations, forming good habits and meaningful perspectives.
Lastly, teachers are also lifelong learners. Because the curriculum is new, teachers are
encouraged to attend training sessions, collaborate with fellow educators, and constantly update
their teaching practices. They are active participants in improving education, not just for the
classroom, but for the whole system.

What possible role will i be assuming when i get into the teaching profession on the
implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum?
When I enter the teaching profession during the implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum,
I will take on the role of a curriculum implementer and innovator. This means I won’t just be
teaching lessons—I’ll be translating the goals of the new curriculum into meaningful classroom
experiences. My responsibility will be to guide students through a more focused, learner-
centered approach that prioritizes foundational skills like literacy, numeracy, and values
formation.
As a teacher, I will also be a character builder. The MATATAG Curriculum places strong
emphasis on values education and citizenship, so I’ll serve as a role model who helps shape
students’ attitudes, behaviors, and sense of identity. I will guide them not just in academics, but
in becoming respectful, responsible, and patriotic individuals. At the same time, I’ll take on the
role of an inclusive educator. The curriculum encourages respect for diversity and cultural
relevance, so part of my work will be to create a classroom environment where every student
feels understood, supported, and valued—no matter their background or learning pace.
Most importantly, I will be a lifelong learner. Since the MATATAG Curriculum is still being
implemented in phases, I’ll be part of a growing and learning community of educators. I’ll adapt,
improve, and collaborate with others to make the curriculum more effective and meaningful for
every Filipino learner. In short, my role will be vital—not only in shaping how the new
curriculum is applied, but in shaping the future of education in the country.