The British Embassy Manila and the UK Mission to ASEAN have announced a strengthened partnership with the Philippines’ Department of Education (DepEd) aimed at advancing the equitable and evidence-based use of education technology (EdTech) across the nation. This initiative, supported by the UK government through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, is facilitated by the EdTech Hub and seeks to enhance foundational learning while building a more resilient education system in the Philippines.
The collaboration focuses on three critical areas to improve educational outcomes. First, the partnership is developing the Philippines’ upcoming National EdTech Policy, in cooperation with DepEd’s Bureau of Learning and Delivery. This policy will guide the strategic implementation of technology in teaching and learning processes. It includes the piloting of policy elements alongside monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure inclusivity and responsiveness. Funding for this initiative comes from the ASEAN-UK Supporting the Advancement of Girls’ Education (ASEAN-UK SAGE) programme.
Secondly, a case study will be conducted to evaluate how DepEd can assess its alternative delivery modes in light of climate-related disruptions to education. This initiative recognizes the challenges posed by climate change and seeks to provide solutions that safeguard the continuity of learning.
The third area of focus is the EdTech Hub’s AI Observatory Ministry of Education AI Challenge. In collaboration with DepEd’s Education Centre of AI Research (ECAIR), this initiative aims to bolster the Philippines’ capacity in artificial intelligence. By enhancing AI experimentation within educational administration, the project seeks to streamline operations and improve efficiency across government sectors.
Secretary Sonny Angara of the Department of Education emphasized that this partnership represents a significant step toward digital transformation in education. He stated, “This partnership with UK and EdTech Hub is another step to accelerate digital transformation in education to ensure our teachers and learners thrive in the modern world.” Angara highlighted this initiative as part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for a “Bagong Pilipinas,” aiming to nurture technologically adept Filipino learners who are prepared for future challenges.
British Ambassador to the Philippines, Sarah Hulton, OBE, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “The United Kingdom is proud to partner with the Department of Education to strengthen foundational learning and advance the Philippines’ digital transformation through inclusive, evidence-based technology.” Hulton underscored the importance of delivering innovative, research-driven solutions to address systemic educational challenges, including learning loss related to child malnutrition and the impact of climate shocks.
Helen Fazey, British Ambassador to ASEAN, added that the UK Mission to ASEAN is dedicated to supporting foundational learning throughout the region via the ASEAN-UK SAGE programme. She noted, “We are working with DepEd to support a measured use of technology that is context-aligned, inclusive, and backed by evidence,” reflecting a shared commitment to equitable education.
Verna Lalbeharie, Executive Director of EdTech Hub, expressed her organization’s commitment to the partnership, stating, “We are honoured to partner with DepEd to support the Philippines’ journey toward inclusive, resilient, and future-ready education systems.” She emphasized that embedding evidence and collaboration at the core of educational initiatives can enhance learning opportunities and ensure broad impact.
This partnership not only highlights the Philippines’ leadership in educational technology but also underscores a collective commitment to creating stronger, more equitable education systems across Southeast Asia. As the Philippines embarks on this digital transformation, the aim is clear: to ensure that no learner is left behind in an increasingly technology-driven world.
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