This paper first explores the steps the Philippines aims to take towards that ambition in its national plans. It examines the environment in which the country will make those plans a reality by checking global trends. The first section takes note of the effects of such global trends, especially on local job preparation. This is important because, as a driving force for development, education must prepare youth and adult citizens for the roles and jobs required for the country to move towards a better future. The second part of this paper presents a comparative analysis of five countries’ education programs as these map across a person’s lifespan. Additionally, the Philippine education system and its provisions for lifelong learning are examined and compared to what other countries have in store for their own learners. For this comparison, the areas assessed are the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED), the countries’ own governance systems, and their National Qualifcations Frameworks. The final section of this policy paper takes a closer look at lifelong learning in the Philippines and then gives recommendations on how programs can be ensured across the lifespan and in local governments.
