DepEd to include mathematics in ARAL program expansion

This file photo shows a facade of the Department of Education.

STAR / File

MANILA, Philippines —  The Department of Education (DepEd) will expand its Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program to include Mathematics in an effort to sustain gains in the Program for International Student Assessment 2025.“The latest PISA results showed us that real progress is possible when we focus on foundational skills, but it also served as a clear reminder of how much ground we still need to cover,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.

Under DepEd Memorandum 060, Series of  2026, the ARAL Mathematics program aims to improve core numeracy skills among learners from Grades 1 to 10.

“With ARAL Mathematics, our goal is simple: to reach every learner, wherever they are in their learning journey. Whether a child needs help recognizing basic numbers or mastering algebraic concepts, we are building a system that gives them targeted, flexible support so no learner gets left behind,” Angara said.

The program will address learning gaps through diagnostic profiling using the Rapid Mathematics Assessment.

Tutors will track learners’ progress through an Individual Mathematics Intervention Plan to provide tailored support.

“Reading opens the door to knowledge, while mathematics builds the logic and critical thinking our youth need for the future. By combining structured practice with flexible scheduling, we are ensuring our schools have the tools to turn early learning wins into lasting academic resilience,” Angara said.

Under the guidelines, tutoring groups must maintain a ratio of 10 to 15 learners per tutor to maximize individual attention.

Instruction will prioritize self-paced learning, allowing learners to work independently through structured worksheets while tutors serve as facilitators rather than traditional lecturers.

Nationwide implementation in all public schools will begin in the second term of the school year 2026-2027.