SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has called for a thorough study of the proposed trimester system in basic education, stressing that the plan must be carefully evaluated before any implementation.

Gatchalian made the statement as he backed Malacañang’s position that the Department of Education’s proposal should undergo public consultation. He emphasized that authorities must first ensure that shifting to a trimester system would result in improved learning outcomes.

Any change in the academic calendar, he said, should be anchored on clear evidence that it would enhance the quality of education. He also underscored the need to protect the welfare of teachers and school principals, noting that the proposed system should not increase their workload or make their jobs more difficult.

Earlier, the Palace clarified that the trimester system remains at the proposal stage, adding that further studies and consultations would help determine whether the new academic structure should be implemented nationwide. DepEd has floated the transition to a three-term academic calendar to allow longer and more flexible instructional periods, reduce teacher workload, and improve overall instruction.