“We believe that our MATATAG Curriculum is a very good one, but a good curriculum is not enough. We need very good teachers to teach it… Together, we will rally for every Filipino child.” — Sara Z. Duterte, Vice President and Secretary of Education, 16 Feb 2024
Introduction: A New Era for Basic Education in the Philippines
If you’re a parent, teacher or homeschooler in the Philippines, you’ve probably heard about the “MATATAG K–10” curriculum. In simple terms: it’s the revised basic education curriculum introduced by DepEd to help our students build strong foundations, without being overwhelmed.
This blog post breaks it down — what’s changed, what you as a parent should look out for, and how you can support your child with resources that align with the MATATAG framework.
What is the MATATAG Curriculum?
The MATATAG Curriculum stands for a robust, simplified, and youth-focused version of the K–12 program (now dubs as K–10 for basic levels). It emphasizes literacy, numeracy, character development, and skills that students will carry throughout life. Department of Education+1
Key changes include:
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De-congested learning competencies — fewer “topics” so children can focus on mastering the essentials. Cebu Daily News+1
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Strong focus on reading, writing, & math especially in early grades. Assistance.PH+1
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Conditional & phased implementation so schools adjust gradually.
When Will It Start?
The MATATAG Curriculum is not yet fully in every grade. It’s being introduced in phases:
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SY 2024–2025: Kindergarten, Grades 1, 4, 7 DEPED TAMBAYAN+1
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SY 2025–2026: Grades 2, 5, 8
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SY 2026–2027: Grades 3, 6, 9
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Which grade levels are already using MATATAG?
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How are learning time and subject load being adjusted? (DepEd allows some flexibility in time allotments) Department of Education
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How will mastery be assessed?
SY 2027–2028: Grade 10 (and full implementation expected by end of 2028) Cebu Daily News+1
What this means: If you have a child in Grade 1 for SY 2024–2025, they’ll be one of the first groups using the new guide.👪 What Parents Should Know
1. Expect Different Learning Areas for Early Grades
For example, in Grade 1 under MATATAG K–10, children will focus mainly on a smaller set of learning areas like: Language, Reading & Literacy, Mathematics, Makabansa (patriotism), and Good Manners & Right Conduct (GMRC). Rappler
That means some familiar subjects may look slightly different now.2. Focus on Mastery, Not Speed
With fewer competencies, the aim is deeper understanding — not just ticking off topics. This means your child might spend more time on a concept until they truly understand it. Assistance.PH+1
3. You Can Support at Home
You’re more powerful than you think! Here are practical ways:
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Use printable worksheets aligned with MATATAG to reinforce literacy and numeracy at home.
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Encourage reading (and talk about what they read).
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Help your child manage tasks (planning, checking answer sheets, re-visiting weaker areas).
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Stay in communication with their school/teacher about the new changes.
4. What to Ask Your Child’s School
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🎨 Why Printed Worksheets Matter & How We Help
At Pinoy Printable Co., we design worksheets, printables and tools that are aligned with the MATATAG Curriculum.
Example: Our Grade 1 Math worksheets follow the new focus on numeracy and logical thinking.
Because MATATAG emphasizes strong foundations — especially in reading and math — having accessible printables at home gives your child a clear advantage.✅ Final Thoughts
The MATATAG Curriculum is a big step forward for Philippine education, with the intent of giving our children a stable, strong start. As a parent, your role is key — supporting your child, using the right resources, staying updated, and fostering a love for learning.
Need help finding resources?
Check our Free Resources page for MATATAG-aligned worksheets and planners to get started today.
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