Have you ever wondered why the Philippine school year sometimes feels longer than usual? With DepEd Memorandum No. 075, s. 2025, the rules on the school calendar are now clearer than ever. It’s all about balancing learning time, holidays, and unexpected events like typhoons.
What Is DepEd Memorandum No. 075, s. 2025?
This memorandum is all about the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11480, which amends RA 7797. In simple terms, it gives schools the authority to stretch the school calendar from 200 class days to a maximum of 220.
The goal is to give students enough time to learn, while allowing adjustments for emergencies. This ensures that no matter what happens, learning remains the top priority.
Why the Change Was Made
The Philippines faces unique challenges in education. Typhoons, floods, and even pandemics can interrupt school schedules. By extending the maximum number of days, DepEd gives schools flexibility.
Here are some key points:
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The school year must start between the first Monday of June and August 31.
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Class days canceled due to calamities can still be counted within the 220-day limit.
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The President, upon DepEd’s recommendation, may adjust school opening dates in emergencies.
This change ensures that the quality of education doesn’t suffer, even in difficult situations.
Interesting Facts About the Longer School Calendar
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No extra pay for teachers – Public school teachers are already on a 12-month salary, so extending the calendar does not automatically mean added compensation.
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Co-curricular activities count – Events like educational trips, school programs, and certain non-graded activities are considered part of class days.
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Make-up classes allowed – Saturday sessions can be used if schools need to catch up.
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Flexibility for private and international schools – The rules apply to both, but schools with special franchises must still align with DepEd policies.
How Schools Will Apply the Rules
Schools will adjust their yearly calendars to meet the requirement. That means:
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Maintaining the required total class hours per day (no shortcuts).
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Scheduling around holidays, breaks, and observances.
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Issuing regional or school-level adjustments when needed.
DepEd may also release additional policies to refine how these rules are implemented.
What This Means for Students and Parents
For students, this means a more stable learning schedule. For parents, it means preparing for possible longer school years, especially when natural disasters strike. While it may sound tiring, it ensures kids don’t miss important lessons.
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More learning days = better mastery of subjects.
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Consistency in class hours = smoother progress.
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Flexible school openings = better safety during crises.
Personal Insight
I remember how my own classes were once cut short because of back-to-back typhoons. At first, we were excited about the unexpected vacation. But later, it felt like we were rushing through lessons. Having up to 220 days makes sense—it gives everyone breathing room without sacrificing learning quality.
Wrapping It Up
DepEd Memorandum No. 075, s. 2025 is a reminder that education adapts to real-life situations. By allowing up to 220 school days, the law ensures that learning continues despite interruptions.
Do you think a longer school calendar will help students, or will it just add stress? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear them!