History of LET in the Philippines
A Complete History of the Licensure Examination for Teachers in the Philippines
Introduction
Are you preparing for the Licensure Examination for Teachers and wondering how this crucial board exam came to be? Understanding the history of the LET in the Philippines is about appreciating the journey that shaped the teaching profession you're about to enter.
The LET Philippines has undergone significant transformations since its inception, reflecting the country's commitment to producing quality educators. If you’re curious about the origins and purpose behind the exam itself, you might also want to explore our related article, Why the LET Exam Was Established.
This article will walk you through the complete history of the licensure examination for teachers in the Philippines, from its earliest forms to the modern exam system we know today. Whether you're a first-time taker or reviewing for another attempt, knowing this history will give you valuable perspective on why the LET matters.
The Early Days: Teacher Certification Before the LET
Pre-Commonwealth Era (Before 1935)
Long before the LET exam existed, the Philippines had informal systems for recognizing qualified teachers. During the American colonial period, the government established normal schools to train educators. The Philippine Normal School, founded in 1901, became the primary institution for teacher preparation. However, there was no standardized national examination because teachers were certified based on their educational qualifications and school evaluations.
The Commonwealth Period (1935-1946)
The 1935 Constitution emphasized education as a priority, but teacher certification remained largely institutional rather than examination-based. Teachers who graduated from recognized normal schools and education programs were automatically granted teaching credentials. This system, while accessible, lacked the standardization that would ensure consistent quality across the archipelago.
The Birth of Professional Regulation
Republic Act No. 1006: The Game Changer
The modern history of the licensure examination for teachers in the Philippines truly begins with Republic Act No. 1006, enacted on June 15, 1952. This landmark legislation created the Board of Examiners for Teachers, marking the first time the Philippines established a formal examination system for educators.
RA 1006 introduced two categories of teacher examinations:
- Elementary Level: For teachers in grades 1-6
- Secondary Level: For teachers in high school
This law represented a paradigm shift. No longer would a degree alone suffice, aspiring teachers now had to prove their competence through a standardized examination administered by the government.
The Role of the Board of Examiners
The Board of Examiners for Teachers, composed of experienced educators appointed by the President, was tasked with:
- Preparing and administering the teacher examinations
- Setting passing standards
- Recommending successful examinees for certification
- Ensuring the quality and integrity of the teaching profession
Evolution Through Presidential Decrees
Presidential Decree No. 223
Under the Marcos administration, Presidential Decree No. 223 further refined teacher certification requirements. This decree mandated that all teachers in both public and private schools must be licensed professionals. It strengthened the examination system and increased the professional status of teachers, aligning them with other regulated professions like engineers and accountants.
Presidential Decree No. 1006
Not to be confused with RA 1006, Presidential Decree No. 1006 amended the earlier law and introduced more comprehensive coverage for the teacher examinations. This decree recognized the growing complexity of educational curricula and the need for teachers to demonstrate mastery across broader subject areas.
The PRC Takes Over: A New Era Begins
Republic Act No. 8981 (2000)
The most significant transformation in the history of LET in the Philippines came with Republic Act No. 8981, also known as the PRC Modernization Act of 2000. This law transferred the administration of the teacher licensure examination from the Department of Education to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).
Why was this change important? The transfer to the PRC elevated teaching to the same professional standing as other licensed professions. The PRC brought standardized procedures, computerized systems, and more rigorous security measures to the examination process.
To learn more about how the PRC shaped this transformation, you might also want to check out our related article on PRC and the Role.
Standardization of the LET Format
Under PRC administration, the LET became more structured and consistent:
- Unified testing dates: Examinations were scheduled twice annually (March and September)
- Standardized coverage: Clear delineation of subjects and competencies
- Professional Test for Teachers (PT): A common component for all examinees
- Specialization Tests: Specific to elementary or secondary levels
The Modern LET: 21st Century Developments
Enhanced Coverage and Competency-Based Testing
In the 2000s and 2010s, the LET exam evolved to reflect modern educational theories and teaching methodologies. The Board of Professional Teachers, working with the PRC, regularly updates the examination to align with:
- K-12 curriculum implementation
- DepEd's National Competency-Based Teacher Standards (NCBTS)
- Global best practices in education
- Technology integration in teaching
Response to Pass Rate Concerns
The LET has historically been known for its challenging nature, with pass rates often fluctuating between 25% and 40%. In response to concerns about these rates, the PRC and the Board of Professional Teachers have:
- Enhanced transparency in the examination process
- Provided clearer guidelines on coverage and competencies
- Encouraged teacher education institutions to align their curricula with LET competencies
- Supported review programs and materials
Key Milestones in LET History
1952
RA 1006 establishes the first formal teacher examination system
1973
PD 223 requires all teachers to be licensed professionals
1976
PD 1006 expands examination coverage
2000
RA 8981 transfers LET administration to the PRC
2006
Implementation of the K-12 curriculum begins influencing LET content
2013
Strengthened alignment between LET and NCBTS
2020
COVID-19 pandemic causes postponements and adjustments to testing schedules
2024-Present
Continued modernization with enhanced security and digital innovations
The Components of Today's LET
General Education (40%)
The General Education component covers fundamental knowledge areas:
- English
- Filipino
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
Professional Education (40%)
This section tests teaching competencies:
- Teaching Profession
- Social Dimensions of Education
- Principles of Teaching
- Educational Technology
- Curriculum Development
- Facilitating Learning
- Child and Adolescent Development
- Assessment of Learning
Specialization (20%)
Elementary or secondary teachers take specialized tests relevant to their chosen level and, for secondary teachers, their major field of study.
Impact on Philippine Education
Raising Professional Standards
The history of LET in the Philippines reflects a consistent effort to elevate teaching as a profession. By requiring licensure, the government has:
- Ensured minimum competency standards
- Increased public trust in educators
- Created professional accountability
- Encouraged continuous learning and improvement
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its importance, the LET has faced criticism:
- Low pass rates: Some argue the exam is too difficult or not reflective of actual teaching skills
- Urban-rural disparities: Review centers and resources are concentrated in cities
- Multiple attempts: Many teachers take the exam several times before passing
- Financial burden: Examination fees and review costs can be significant
Comparing the LET to Other Professional Exams
The licensure examination for teachers shares similarities with other board exams administered by the PRC, such as:
- Engineering board exams: Multiple attempts common, moderate pass rates
- Nursing board exams: Similarly challenging with comparable pass rates
- CPA board exams: Known for low pass rates and rigorous standards
This comparison shows that the LET's difficulty is consistent with other professional licensure requirements, reflecting the serious responsibility teachers bear in shaping young minds.
The Future of the LET
Digital Transformation
The PRC has been exploring computer-based testing (CBT) for various professional examinations. This could mean:
- Faster release of results
- Enhanced security measures
- More flexible testing schedules
- Immediate feedback on performance
Continuous Professional Development
Beyond initial licensure, the PRC and DepEd have been strengthening Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements for teachers. This ensures that licensed educators remain updated with current educational practices throughout their careers.
International Alignment
As the Philippines seeks to align its education system with international benchmarks, the LET may evolve to incorporate:
- Global teaching competency frameworks
- Cross-cultural education perspectives
- Advanced pedagogical approaches
- 21st-century learning skills
Understanding the LET's Requirements Today
Eligibility Requirements
To take the LET Philippines, you must:
- Be a graduate of a four-year Bachelor of Elementary Education or Bachelor of Secondary Education program
- Have completed the required education units from a CHED-recognized institution
- Submit complete application documents to the PRC
Application Process
The PRC has streamlined the application process:
- Online registration: Through the PRC website during application periods
- Document submission: Upload or submit required credentials
- Payment: Through authorized banks or online platforms
- Confirmation: Receive your notice of admission with testing details
Tips for Success Based on Historical Trends
Learn from the Past
Understanding the history of LET in the Philippines reveals patterns that can help your preparation:
- Focus on fundamentals: Throughout its evolution, the LET has consistently emphasized mastery of basic competencies in General Education and Professional Education. Don't neglect these areas.
- Stay updated: The exam regularly incorporates current educational policies and practices. Follow DepEd orders and CHED memoranda relevant to teacher education.
- Practice comprehensively: Historical data shows that successful examinees demonstrate balanced competence across all three components: General Education, Professional Education, and Specialization.
Modern Preparation Strategies
- Use official resources: The PRC provides syllabi and competency frameworks
- Join study groups: Collaborative learning has proven effective for many passers
- Take review classes: Formal review centers can provide structure and expert guidance
- Practice time management: The LET is as much about speed as accuracy
- Focus on critical thinking: Modern LET questions emphasize application and analysis, not just recall
The LET's Cultural Significance
Teachers as Nation Builders
In Philippine culture, teachers hold a revered position. They are second parents, mentors, and community leaders. The licensure examination for teachers in the Philippines embodies this respect by ensuring that only qualified individuals can bear the title of "licensed professional teacher."
Economic and Social Mobility
For many Filipinos, teaching represents a path to stable employment and social respectability. The LET, while challenging, opens doors to:
- Public school teaching positions
- Better salary grades and benefits
- Career advancement opportunities
- Professional recognition and respect
Conclusion
The history of the Licensure Examination for Teachers in the Philippines is a story of continuous improvement and unwavering commitment to educational excellence. From informal certification in the early 1900s to the rigorous, standardized LET exam administered by the PRC today, this evolution reflects our nation's recognition that quality education begins with quality teachers.
Understanding this history should inspire you as you prepare for your own LET journey. Every question you answer, every concept you master, and every practice test you take connects you to decades of Filipino educators who have walked this path before you. The LET isn't just a barrier to entry, it's a rite of passage that ensures you're prepared to shape the next generation of Filipino minds.
Remember, passing the LET Philippines is more than earning a license; it's joining a proud tradition of professional educators dedicated to nation-building through teaching.
Ready to make history yourself? Start your LET preparation today with focused study, unwavering determination, and the knowledge that you're pursuing one of the noblest professions in the Philippines. Your future students are waiting for a licensed, qualified, and passionate teacher like you!
LET Basics
Foundational knowledge for every LET taker.
History of the LET Exam in the Philippines