The DepEd Abot Alam Program is a national initiative designed to reach out to out-of-school youth (OSY) and give them access to education, skills training, and employment opportunities. It was launched in 2014 as a partnership between the Department of Education (DepEd) and different government agencies, private groups, and local communities. Through this program, OSYs can either return to formal school, take non-formal education classes, or get skills training to help them find better jobs and build a brighter future.
The program’s main goal is to make sure no youth is left behind, offering a second chance for learning and growth. To apply, OSYs (or their families) just need to visit their local DepEd office, barangay hall, or ALS (Alternative Learning System) coordinators to register and complete a simple application procedure. It is particularly important, both for the stakeholders and the rest of the society to understand tha programs like this exist, as it gives hope and opportunities to young Filipinos who, for many reasons, couldn’t finish school. Moreover, the program is designed to help not just individuals, but also the entire communities, in moving forward to progress. So, if you are an out-of-school youth aged 15-30 looking for education assistance or career opportunities, don’t miss the chance to join. Learn how to take part as a learner under the Abot-Alam Program today.
Program Overview and Goals
The DepEd Abot-Alam Program is a nationwide initiative launched in collaboration with the National Youth Commission (NYC) and various government agencies, non-government organizations, and private sector partners to address the growing number of Filipino youth who have dropped out of school or never had formal education. It aims to bring together government resources into a unified national framework for providing education assistance and support services.
Launched nationwide in 2014, the program reflects the Philippine government’s strong commitment to promoting education for all and assisting OSYs across the country and meeting the following goals:
- Data Banking: Collect accurate information on the number and location of out-of-school youth through a barangay-level targeting system.
- Unified National Framework: Combine efforts and resources from various agencies, NGOs, volunteer groups, and institutions to address OSY challenges.
- Reintegration and Equal Access: Provide all OSYs with fair access to education, training, and employment programs offered by government agencies and partners.
As a government initiative, the program’s ultimate vision is simple: No Filipino youth left behind. The program aims to help at least one million OSYs transition back into education, gain employment, or start entrepreneurial activities.
How it Works
The DepEd Abot-Alam Program operates in two main phases:
Data Gathering and Mapping
Through a system similar to the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) by DSWD, barangays across the Philippines identify and record OSYs in their communities. The data collected forms a national database used to design and deliver education and livelihood interventions.
Community Reintegration Program
Based on the collected data, OSYs are offered different opportunities based on their interests and goals. They can:
- Return to formal schooling through DepEd’s Alternative Learning System (ALS) or Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM) programs.
- Enroll in technical-vocational courses through TESDA.
- Apply for higher education scholarships with CHED.
- Seek job placement or livelihood assistance through DOLE, DTI, and other partner agencies.
The program provides a pathway to education, employment, or entrepreneurship, depending on the learner’s chosen track.
Types of Education Assistance and Services Offered
Learners under the Abot-Alam Program have access to a variety of assistance and services depending on their goals:
- Alternative Learning System (ALS): A flexible learning option for OSYs who want to complete basic education (elementary or secondary levels).
- Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM): Innovative approaches such as Modified In-School/Off-School Approach (MISOSA) and Open High School Program (OHSP) for learners who cannot attend traditional school schedules.
- Technical-Vocational Skills Training: Skills development courses from TESDA for employment and entrepreneurship.
- Higher Education Scholarships: Financial assistance to attend colleges and universities through CHED.
- Job Placement Programs: Direct assistance from DOLE and DTI for OSYs ready for employment.
All these pathways are intended to help learners build a better future based on their interests, skills, and life circumstances.
Agencies and Organizations Supporting the Program
Aside from DepEd and NYC, a wide range of agencies and organizations actively support the program. These include:
- Department of Agriculture (DA)
- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
- Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
- Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
- National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)
- Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP)
- Various private partners like Go Negosyo, SMART Communications, and De La Salle Philippines (DLSP)
The involvement of these agencies makes it possible to offer a variety of interventions for different needs.
Why Join the Program?
Joining the DepEd Abot-Alam Program offers many benefits:
- Flexible Education Opportunities: Whether you want to complete basic education or develop job-ready skills, there are programs designed for you.
- Access to Free or Subsidized Training: Many of the education and training programs are free or heavily subsidized.
- Employment and Entrepreneurship Support: Those looking to start work or businesses are given access to job opportunities, livelihood training, and business starter kits.
- Personal Growth and Development: Aside from academic and career gains, learners also develop confidence, leadership skills, and resilience.
Target Beneficiaries
The DepEd Abot Alam Program aims to reach and assist the following groups of out-of-school individuals:
- Out-of-school youth aged 15 to 30 years old
- Adults who have not completed basic education
- Youth who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET)
- Indigenous peoples and marginalized sectors
- Youth with disabilities who are capable of learning skills or pursuing education
Who Can Apply?
The program welcomes all eligible learners who want to pursue better education and employment prospects. To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be aged between 15 to 30 years old.
- Be an out-of-school youth — meaning you have dropped out of school or never attended any formal schooling.
- Not currently enrolled in any school or formal education program.
- Willing to either return to school, pursue livelihood training, or seek employment.
How to Apply as a Learner
Applying for the DepEd Abot-Alam Program follows a simple and learner-friendly process:
Step 1: Get Identified or Register
- The initial identification usually happens during barangay mapping and community surveys organized by the local government.
- If you were not reached during the survey, you can directly approach your barangay office or nearest DepEd Alternative Learning System (ALS) Center to express your interest.
Step 2: Attend Orientation
- Applicants are usually invited to an orientation conducted by the Abot-Alam Facilitators or ALS Coordinators.
- The orientation explains your options for education, skills training, or employment, and helps you choose the best track.
Step 3: Enrollment or Referral
Depending on your chosen path, the next steps differ:
- For those returning to school: Enrollment will be facilitated by an ALS Mobile Teacher, the District ALS Coordinator (DALSC), or the Abot-Alam Facilitator. You will be issued a Learner Reference Number (LRN) via DepEd’s Learner Information System (LIS).
- For those pursuing technical-vocational training or employment: You will be referred to partner agencies such as TESDA, CHED, DOLE, or other organizations offering scholarships, skills training, and job placements.
Step 4: Attend and Complete Your Chosen Program
- Learners who return to school will attend ALS classes or formal school classes through Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM) like Open High School Program or other locally initiated programs.
- Those opting for livelihood or technical-vocational training will undergo the required training and assessments.
- Employment seekers will be guided in finding suitable jobs through partner agencies.
Where to Get the Forms and Apply for the Program
To apply for the DepEd Abot Alam Program, you can obtain the application forms from your local barangay office, DepEd division office, or Alternative Learning System (ALS) Community Learning Center (CLC). These forms are also available online through the school or the DepEd website or other affiliated platforms (Abot Alam Program | PDF | Secondary School – Scribd). Once you have the form, fill it out with your personal details, educational background, and preferred learning or employment track. After completing the form, submit it to the nearest ALS CLC, barangay office, or designated DepEd personnel. They will guide you through the next steps, which may include an interview or assessment to determine the most suitable program for you.
Important Reminders for Interested Learners
If you are interested in this program, here are some reminders you’d want to take note of when applying for the program:
- Registration is ongoing in many communities through barangay offices and DepEd ALS Centers.
- Keep an eye out for community announcements or public service posts about Abot-Alam activities.
- Make sure to bring valid identification documents and proof of residency when registering.
- If you have special needs or require additional assistance, inform your Abot-Alam Facilitator during registration.
Video: DepEd Launches the Abot Alam Program
The DepEd Abot-Alam Program is a program designed to offer a way for out-of-school youth in the Philippines to reconnect with education, gain livelihood skills, and secure better employment opportunities. With a simple application process, a wide range of options, and the strong support of multiple agencies and organizations, this program stands as a gateway for many Filipinos toward a brighter, more secure future. Watch this video from PTV Philippines to learn more:
Remember: Education, employment, and entrepreneurship pathways are always waiting for you — all you have to do is take the first step and apply for opportunities like the Abot Alam Program.