DepEd’s new policy says that artificial intelligence (AI) may be used in schools, but it must be used carefully, ethically, and always under human guidance. AI is seen as a tool to support teaching, learning, assessment, and school work—not something that replaces the teacher, school head, or education personnel. The policy covers classrooms, assessment, professional development, research, and school operations.
For teachers, the main message is simple: you may use AI to help you teach, but professional judgment remains essential. AI can help in preparing lesson materials, differentiating activities, generating examples, or suggesting questions. However, teachers are still responsible for checking whether the content is accurate, appropriate, age-suitable, and aligned with learning goals. AI should support learning, not encourage shortcut answers or passive copying.
The policy also sets limits on learner use of AI. Learners in Grades 4 to 12 may use AI as part of learning activities when guided properly. For Kindergarten to Grade 3, AI is not for direct learner use; it is mainly for the teacher’s preparation of materials and support for differentiated instruction. For learners aged 13 and below, teacher supervision is required, and parents must be informed beforehand. This means AI use in class should be planned, purposeful, and monitored.
In assessment, AI may assist teachers in drafting quizzes, worksheets, rubrics, or feedback, but it cannot replace the teacher in making final decisions about learner performance. Assessment should not be fully automated. The policy is also careful about academic honesty: AI detectors should not be the only basis for accusing a learner of cheating. Teachers should still rely on classroom evidence, observation, discussion, and actual student work.
The policy strongly protects privacy, safety, and fairness. Personal and sensitive information must not be carelessly entered into AI systems. Some uses of AI are prohibited, especially those that may manipulate learners, misuse biometric information, or make unfair judgments about people. In short, schools should not use AI in ways that harm children, violate privacy, or remove human accountability.
Another important part of the policy is AI literacy and responsible use. DepEd wants schools not only to use AI, but also to help learners understand what AI is, what it can and cannot do, and how to use it critically and ethically. This includes checking outputs, questioning errors or bias, and acknowledging when AI has been used.
Overall, the policy encourages teachers to treat AI as a helpful assistant, not a substitute for good teaching. The teacher remains central in planning lessons, facilitating discussion, assessing learning, and caring for students. AI can save time and widen access to resources, but the heart of teaching—judgment, relationships, and pedagogy—must stay with the teacher.
Link to DepEd Order 003 series of 2026: https://www.deped.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/DO_s2026_003r-1.pdf.