🚨 Debunking the Myth: DepEd Clarifies “Grade 13” Is Not Part of K to 12
A misleading viral post made waves online this May, claiming that the Department of Education (DepEd) is set to roll out a Grade 13 level in senior high school beginning school year 2025–2026. The post, which appeared alongside official-looking logos from DepEd and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), has since been deleted — but not before it sowed confusion and concern among Filipino parents and students.
In a strong and immediate response on May 18, DepEd officially declared the post as “fake news”, urging the public to stay vigilant against misinformation and only rely on verified channels for education-related updates.
🛑 The Fake Grade 13 Announcement: How It Spread
The deceptive graphic first surfaced through a Facebook page created on the same day of posting — a tactic frequently used by misinformation peddlers. It featured alarming language urging readers to share and read about the so-called additional year in senior high school. The post even included two shortened links to make it look more convincing, supposedly leading to explanations for the change.
However, a closer inspection revealed the truth: the links directed users to an e-commerce site, not an official education portal. This deceptive move further highlights the need to scrutinize online claims, especially when they concern major policy shifts that affect families across the country.
📣 What DepEd Really Said
In its official statement, DepEd reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and information accuracy:
“Para sa opisyal na mga anunsiyo at impormasyon tungkol sa basic education, bisitahin lamang ang official DepEd Philippines social media accounts.”
This clear message aims to educate the public about digital discernment and promote responsible information sharing — particularly on issues as crucial as our national education framework.
📚 No Mention of Grade 13 in Real Curriculum Changes
It’s worth noting that while DepEd is indeed revising its senior high school curriculum, the updates are focused on streamlining tracks and reducing redundant subjects, not adding a new grade level.
The upcoming curriculum revision will reportedly condense the existing four tracks into two and trim down core subjects from 15 to 5 — a move designed to enhance learning outcomes and reduce unnecessary load, not to extend the education timeline.
There is absolutely no inclusion of Grade 13 in these plans. Any content suggesting otherwise is inaccurate and intentionally misleading.
💬 Public Reactions: Mixed Emotions Fueled by Misinformation
While many reacted with laughter emojis — possibly recognizing the post as satire or nonsense — others were clearly misled. One comment read:
“Grabe kayo, dagdag gastos sa aming mga magulang at another hirap sa mga anak namin.”
(You’re too much, an additional burden for parents and more hardship for our children.)
This shows how fake news can stir genuine concern, even if wrapped in humor. It underscores the importance of fact-checking before sharing, especially in an age where viral posts spread faster than the truth.
✅ The Takeaway: Verify Before You Share
As online platforms become powerful tools for communication, they are also breeding grounds for deceptive content. The Grade 13 hoax is just one example of how misinformation can manipulate emotions, provoke panic, and erode trust in public institutions.
Stay informed by following only verified sources like the official DepEd Facebook page, the Department of Education website, and reputable news outlets. Let’s protect not just our kids’ education, but also the truth that shapes it.
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