The 2nd Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) on Wednesday lauded the signing into law of Republic Act (RA) 12199, or the “ECCD System Act,” a measure aimed at strengthening the early foundations of the Philippine education system.

The law, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on May 8, seeks to overhaul and expand the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) System, addressing implementation gaps in the Early Years Act of 2013 and anchoring support for children from birth to age eight.

“This new legislation is a major step forward in fixing the foundations of our education system,” EDCOM 2 Co-Chairperson Rep. Roman Romulo said.

“A child’s early years are critical. By prioritizing proper nutrition, quality early childhood care, and meaningful opportunities for play, we are giving every Filipino child the best start in life.”

EDCOM 2 Co-Chairperson Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, in turn, said the landmark reform would mobilize local government units in delivering ECCD programs and services.

“This will strengthen our learners’ foundations, which is crucial in resolving the education crisis that hounds our country,” he said.

The ECCD System Act codifies the State’s commitment to the holistic well-being and development of children in their early years, recognizing age-appropriate stages and the need for nurturing environments during the formative period of zero to eight years.

EDCOM 2’s research showed that only 36 percent of villages in the country have at least one Child Development Center (CDC), despite a 1990 law mandating their nationwide establishment.

The new law assigns primary implementation responsibilities to local government units, including creating ECCD offices, establishing plantilla positions for child development teachers (CDTs) and workers (CDWs), and providing essential resources.

To address the long-standing issues of underemployment and low pay, RA 12199 mandates professionalizing ECCD workers, setting qualifications, training, certification, and salary standards.

EDCOM 2 noted that 89 percent of CDTs and CDWs remain in non-permanent positions, with average salaries of about PHP5,000. (PNA)