PH posts strongest PISA performance, eyes further learning gains

Daemien Arkin Batacan

The Philippines recorded its strongest performance yet in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), posting improved scores in reading, mathematics and science as the country seeks to further strengthen its education system. 

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the gains should serve as a foundation for building an education system capable of competing with the world’s best, after the release of the 2025 PISA results.

Speaking during a recognition event for schools and education partners on September 28, Marcos called for sustained efforts to improve Filipino learners’ foundational skills and ensure that education equips students to apply their knowledge to real-life situations.

The Philippines recorded mean scores of 367 in reading, 371 in mathematics and 373 in science in PISA 2025, marking increases of 20, 16 and 17 points, respectively, from its 2022 results.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which conducts PISA, assesses the ability of 15-year-old students to use knowledge and skills to address real-world problems.

PISA 2025 covered reading, mathematics and science as its core domains, while also assessing students’ computational problem-solving abilities and learning in the digital world. 

Education Secretary Sonny Angara credited the improvement to the collective efforts of teachers, learners, families, local government units and private-sector partners.

During the recognition event at President Corazon Aquino National High School in Pasay City, Angara cited the contributions of education partners that helped schools address resource and infrastructure challenges.

Businesses, electric cooperatives, corporate foundations and civic organizations provided assistance, including internet connectivity, backup generators and school supplies, according to the Department of Education (DepEd).

The latest results also showed continued challenges in closing the gap between Filipino learners and international benchmarks .

The Philippines’ average scores remained below the OECD averages of 461 in reading, 463 in mathematics and 482 in science, indicating that despite the gains, significant learning gaps remain. 

The 2025 results nevertheless represented an improvement from the country’s previous PISA performances. The Philippines first participated in the assessment in 2018.

DepEd has continued implementing reforms aimed at improving foundational learning, including curriculum changes, learning remediation programs and measures intended to reduce teachers’ administrative workload.

Marcos said the government must build on the progress rather than treat the latest results as an endpoint, as the country seeks further improvements in the quality and accessibility of basic education.

With the latest PISA performance showing gains alongside persistent gaps, education officials are expected to sustain reforms and partnerships aimed at improving Filipino students’ learning outcomes.