The history, culture, and social conventions of the Philippines are reflected in the creation of its

educational programs. The Philippines' educational system has seen major changes from the pre-Spanish
period to the K–12 curriculum, and these changes have had a substantial impact on the intellectual,
social, and economic growth of the nation.

Prior to the arrival of Spanish invaders in 16th-century the indigenous people of the Philippines had their
own educational system. It was primarily a form of informal education that concentrated on survival-
related information and skills including farming, fishing, hunting, and handicrafts. The young people
were expected to learn the skills necessary for daily life from the Datu, or tribe leaders. Children were
instructed by their elders and given the skills they needed to contribute responsibly to their community.

Spanish invaders brought a new, Christian-centered educational system to the Philippines when they first
arrived. The Spanish friars founded schools to instruct the locals in the Catholic religion and to prepare
them to serve the Spanish crown as obedient and devoted subjects. Reading, writing, arithmetic, and
fundamental vocational skills were all included in the curriculum, which was based on the Spanish
model. However, the majority of the natives remained illiterate because this education was only
accessible to the wealthy and privileged class.