Acta Pedagogia Asiana
Volume 5 - Issue 2 - 2026

Comparative Perspective on Curriculum Design: The Philippines and Global Educational Systems

Merianne D. Gucor (Surigao del Norte State University, Surigao City, 8400, Philippines)
Mauricio S. Adlaon (Surigao del Norte State University, Surigao City, 8400, Philippines)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 May 2026

Abstract

Curriculum design shapes national education systems and prepares learners to address global challenges. The Philippine K–12 curriculum, implemented in 2013, aligns with international standards but faces constraints related to flexibility, teacher autonomy, and interdisciplinary learning. This study systematically reviewed and compared Philippine curriculum frameworks with those of Finland, Singapore, the United States, and Japan to identify shared principles, distinctive features, and best practices. Peer-reviewed journal articles, national curriculum documents, and international education reports published between 2000 and 2025 were analyzed through thematic synthesis and comparative evaluation. The findings show that Philippine and global curricula share standards-based, competency-driven frameworks that emphasize 21st-century skills; however, they differ in governance, flexibility, teacher autonomy, and the integration of interdisciplinary learning. While the Philippines excels in contextualization and localization, other systems demonstrate greater adaptability, phenomenon-based learning, and technology-supported instruction. A re-conceptualized curriculum model is proposed that integrates global best practices while preserving local relevance. These insights highlight opportunities to enhance flexibility, empower teachers, promote interdisciplinary approaches, and integrate digital tools, thereby supporting evidence-based reforms and future research toward a globally aligned Philippine education system.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

apga

Publisher

Subject

Education Other

Description

The journal welcomes submissions regardless of methodological approach, we expect all manuscripts to include a nuanced consideration and rich discussion of results in relation to the research and broader context of teaching and learning. Though we prioritize empirical work, purely theoretical ...