Philippine schools face noisy, disruptive classrooms despite strong teacher support

The Department of Education highlighted classroom discipline as a key area for improvement in its review of the 2025 PISA results. While 79% of Filipino students said noise and disorder interfere with at least some Science lessons and 75% noted that classmates do not listen to teachers, 65% indicated difficulty concentrating on tasks. Conversely, learners reported strong teacher support, with the majority saying teachers show interest, continue teaching until understanding is achieved, and offer extra help when needed.

Digital-device distraction was noted by about 75% of students, and more than 80% attend schools with policies on device use. These findings come as the Philippines achieved its highest PISA scores to date, with mean scores of 367 in Reading, 371 in Mathematics and 373 in Science. Education Secretary Sonny Angara referenced ongoing concerns about digital familiarity among students during a recent House Committee on Appropriations hearing.