CSC eases entry into government for senior high graduates

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The changes do not apply to positions that require a specific degree or professional license governed by board laws

MANILA, Philippines – The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has lowered the educational barrier for entry into government work, formally opening the door for thousands of senior high school graduates to join the country’s bureaucracy.

Announced Thursday, May 8, the CSC’s move updates long-standing qualification standards for first-level government positions – jobs that include clerical, custodial, trade, and craft work – and aligns eligibility criteria with the national K to 12 curriculum.

The K to 12 program, a centerpiece of education reform during the presidency of the late Benigno Simeon Aquino III, overhauled the country’s basic education system by extending it. It introduced two additional years of senior high school and pushed for student specialization in academic, technical-vocational, sports, or arts tracks.

The reform, billed as a bid to modernize education and meet international standards, was controversial from the outset. It was hailed by proponents as long overdue, and also criticized by many sectors wary of its implementation and cost. 

CSC Resolution No. 2500229, decided on March 6, allows junior high school (10th grade) and senior high school (12th grade) graduates to qualify for sub-professional roles or first-level positions in government.

The changes do not apply to positions that require a specific degree or professional license governed by board laws. 

The amended standards reflect the following changes: individuals previously required to be high school graduates may now qualify if they completed Grade 10 under the K to 12 program beginning in 2016. 

Similarly, those who were required to have finished two years of college may now qualify if they completed Grade 12 starting in 2016. 

The revisions also recognize, starting 2018, senior high school graduates under the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood Track and junior high school graduates with National Certificate Level II (NC II) from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as meeting the education requirements for relevant positions.

NC II is one of the TESDA certification levels about an individual’s required skills and knowledge in a specific trade or occupational area, following completion of a formal training program and a competency assessment.

The CSC, however, stressed that meeting the education requirement is not sufficient on its own. Applicants must also meet other criteria such as relevant training, work experience, and civil service eligibility. 

The appointments remain at the discretion of the hiring authority based on existing civil service rules and regulations.

The CSC said the revised qualification standards will take effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation or in the Official Gazette. – Rappler.com