In a significant move to expand access to education, the Department of Education (DepEd) has successfully procured over 87 million learning modules and 74,492 tablets for students nationwide under the Flexible Learning Options (FLO) fund. This initiative, spearheaded by Education Secretary Sonny Angara, underscores the administration’s commitment to ensuring no learner is left behind through strategic early procurement activities (EPA).
A Boost for Alternative Education
FLO is designed for students unable to attend traditional schools due to various circumstances. It offers flexible schedules, locations, and learning methods tailored to students’ needs, allowing them to continue their education at their own pace.
“These learning resources are designed to support learners who are studying independently, allowing them to learn at their own pace and make adjustments as needed,” Sec. Angara emphasized.
A Commitment Fulfilled
Since taking office, Secretary Angara has prioritized early procurement to accelerate the delivery of educational resources—a promise he made during the House of Representatives’ budget deliberations in September 2024.
“We made a commitment to fast-track learning resources, and we are making good on that promise. EPA is more than just a procurement strategy—it’s a game-changer in making sure no learner is left waiting,” Sec. Angara stated.
With this initiative, over 300,000 learners in high and medium-risk areas across 16 regions will now have the tools needed to continue their education through alternative learning methods. This aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of providing inclusive, accessible, and high-quality education for all.
Ongoing Expansion of Learning Resources
DepEd’s Bureau of Alternative Education (BAE) has already delivered 2,975,000 modules and 330,000 session guides to learners across the country. Additionally, P115 million was allocated to regional offices for the reproduction of locally developed modules, including 41 Accreditation & Equivalency (A&E) Elementary modules and 41 A&E Junior High School (JHS) modules.
“As we strengthen our alternative education programs, we also make sure that our learners are equipped with crucial educational tools and resources to aid them in their learning and help them reintegrate into the educational system,” said Sec. Angara.
Empowering Educators & Students
Nearly 300 Alternative Learning System (ALS) implementers have undergone specialized training, supported by UNESCO, to enhance the effectiveness of these resources. DepEd’s FLO program offers both Alternative Delivery Modes (ADMs) and Alternative Learning System (ALS) to cater to diverse learning needs.
ADMs provide alternative approaches for students at risk of dropping out while still following the K to 12 curriculum through methods such as:
✅ Modular Distance Learning
✅ Online Distance Learning
✅ Blended Learning
✅ Open High School System
✅ Night High School
✅ Rural Farm School
✅ Homeschooling
With these strategic advancements, DepEd continues to lead the way in making education more inclusive and adaptable for all Filipino learners.
