Senator Legarda hails new law ending mandatory spiral progression in K-12 curriculum

Senator Loren Legarda has lauded the enactment of Republic Act No. 12322, signed into law on August 2, 2026, which grants the Department of Education (DepEd) the flexibility to move away from the mandatory spiral progression approach in the K-12 curriculum.

The reform, which Legarda principally authored, addresses long-standing criticisms of the previous system—specifically concerns regarding "shallow learning," repetitive competencies, and gaps in student mastery.

“The law provides a clear direction for learning. We are giving DepEd the capacity to determine the most effective methods to ensure our learners develop genuine mastery at every level,” Legarda stated.

The Senator clarified that the law does not ban spiral progression entirely; rather, it empowers the DepEd to tailor curricular approaches—whether traditional or innovative—based on evidence, subject requirements, and classroom conditions.

This legislation is deeply rooted in the findings of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II). Reports such as Miseducation, Fixing the Foundations, and Turning Point highlighted that a rigid, one-size-fits-all curriculum often overlooked diverse learning environments, such as the Alternative Learning System and Indigenous Peoples Education.

The law also mandates regular curriculum reviews, a move Legarda believes will help modernize teaching methods. “Education cannot remain tied to outdated practices,” she emphasized. “We must continuously improve our curriculum to ensure our youth are truly prepared for college, work, and life.”