ATENEO de Manila University has expressed full support for the Year 2 Report recommendations of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), recognizing them as a crucial step toward transformative, evidence-based reforms in Philippine education.

The university commended EDCOM 2 for its comprehensive assessment of the country’s education challenges and its proposed actionable solutions, aimed at creating a more inclusive, innovative, and globally competitive learning environment.

“As an institution deeply committed to academic excellence, social transformation, and nation-building, Ateneo stands in solidarity with EDCOM 2 in its efforts to strengthen the foundations of our education system,” the university said in a statement.

“We particularly emphasize the importance of enhancing early childhood education and nutrition, ensuring adequate and well-equipped classrooms, and empowering both teaching and non-teaching personnel with the necessary resources to drive meaningful change,” it added.

These reforms, Ateneo emphasized, are essential to addressing learning gaps, fostering critical thinking, and preparing students to succeed in an evolving global landscape.

Ateneo reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to implement these necessary changes.

The university looks forward to further collaborations with EDCOM 2 through research, policy advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives that align with their shared vision for a stronger education system.

The Year 2 report, titled “Fixing the Foundations: A Matter of National Survival,” offers insights and lessons on the priorities of the Philippine basic education system.

“We worked in lockstep with our former colleagues, Secretary Sonny Angara and Secretary Kiko Benitez, who have since taken our collective call for change to the executive branch. This year, no less than the President has also expressed his full support, personally acting on measures to ensure coordination among education agencies and emphasizing the need for greater focus on the first 1,000 days,” EDCOM II wrote in its preface.