To build on gains in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2025, the Department of Education (DepEd) is expanding its flagship learning recovery initiative by launching ARAL Mathematics and introducing flexible tutoring models for public schools nationwide.
The operationalization of DepEd Memorandum No. 060, s. 2026 enforcing Republic Act No. 12028, or the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program Act broadens the program from foundational reading to core numeracy skills across Grade 1 to Grade 10.
Under the new guidelines, ARAL Mathematics addresses learning gaps from Grade 1 to Grade 10 using diagnostic profiling through the Rapid Mathematics Assessment (RMA). Tutors will track learner progress using an Individual Mathematics Intervention Plan (IMIP) to ensure tailored support.
“The latest PISA results showed us that real progress is possible when we focus on foundational skills, but it also served as a clear reminder of how much ground we still need to cover,” said Education Secretary Sonny Angara.
“With ARAL Mathematics, our goal is simple: to reach every learner, wherever they are in their learning journey. Whether a child needs help recognizing basic numbers or mastering algebraic concepts, we are building a system that gives them targeted, flexible support so no learner gets left behind,” Angara added.
Under the new guidelines, ARAL Mathematics addresses learning gaps from Grade 1 to Grade 10 using diagnostic profiling through the Rapid Mathematics Assessment (RMA). Tutors will track learner progress using an Individual Mathematics Intervention Plan (IMIP) to ensure tailored support.
To ensure maximum participation across diverse school contexts, DepEd is rolling out flexible delivery options, allowing schools to offer face-to-face, online, or blended tutoring. Sessions may be scheduled during pull-out periods in class, off-school hours, or on weekends.
The expanded push follows the visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Secretary Angara at Catbalogan III Central Elementary School in Samar, where they observed the impact of the ARAL Program in helping young struggling readers catch up.
Highlighting the administration’s focus on foundational learning in basic education, Angara said that early literacy and math interventions must advance together.
“Reading opens the door to knowledge, while mathematics builds the logic and critical thinking our youth need for the future. By combining structured practice with flexible scheduling, we are ensuring our schools have the tools to turn early learning wins into lasting academic resilience,” Angara added.
The operationalization of DepEd Memorandum No. 060, s. 2026 enforcing Republic Act No. 12028, or the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program Act broadens the program from foundational reading to core numeracy skills across Grade 1 to Grade 10.
To safeguard program quality and ensure manageable workloads, the guidelines mandate that tutoring groups maintain a ratio of 10 to 15 learners per tutor to maximize individual attention.
Instruction will prioritize self-paced learning, allowing learners to work independently through structured worksheets while tutors serve as facilitators rather than traditional lecturers.
Sessions are subject to time caps, limiting weekday tutoring to one hour per day, while weekend sessions for multi-shift schools may run up to two hours.
Nationwide implementation across all public schools will take effect in Term 2 of School Year 2026–2027, giving schools flexibility to finalize staffing, resources, and schedules.
