I once believed in the promise of the K12 Program — a vision of enriched education and a brighter future for our children in the Philippines. It was introduced with the assurance of better learning opportunities and preparing our youth for a competitive global stage. However, the reality has not lived up to these promises. As time has passed, I've witnessed firsthand how the K12 Program has become nothing more than an additional financial strain. Instead of unlocking doors to new opportunities, it's locking them shut for many families unable to bear the increased expenses.

Families are finding themselves depleting their resources just to meet the requirements of the extended education years. The additional costs for school supplies, transportation, and daily expenses add up quickly. This burden has forced numerous students to discontinue their education altogether, unable to meet the demands. This isn't just a concern for me but for thousands across our nation who share similar stories of struggle and disappointment.

Furthermore, the K12 Program has not improved the quality of our education system. The focus on quantity—more years, more subjects—has overshadowed the need for quality education. The core objective of education should be to nurture, inspire, and equip students with practical skills and knowledge that will benefit them in life. But now, less time is spent on quality family interaction and extracurricular activities that aid in holistic development.

The promise of better opportunities has remained unfulfilled. Many graduates of the K12 system are finding it challenging to secure jobs that match their educational background, raising questions about the effectiveness of the program in preparing them for the workforce.

Therefore, I urge the Department of Education to reconsider the K12 Program and focus on ways to genuinely improve our education system. We need a curriculum that emphasizes quality rather than quantity — a system that highlights effective learning, critical analysis, and practical application. Let us collaborate in creating an educational path that truly refines the capabilities of our youth and lays down a strong foundation for their future.

Sign this petition to support abolishing the K12 Program and advocating for a reformed educational approach that serves our children and society better. Together, we can bring about a change that puts our children's best interests at the forefront.