AI-powered learning system's implementation in Tabuk schools assessed; ‘If positive results, nationwide adoption next,’ says DOST-NCRP

TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) monitored the pilot implementation of its AI-powered learning system in two schools in Tabuk City on November 11, 2026, to assess how the technology is being used in classroom instruction.

The monitoring was conducted by the DOST-National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP), together with DOST-Kalinga, led by Provincial Director Dr. Jasmin Lee Donaal, at Bulanao Central School and Laya West Elementary School.

DOST's e-TURO (Enhancing Teachers Unimpeded Rational Objectives) Digital Learning System is an AI-powered learning management system (LMS) that combines a digital content library, AI-assisted lesson and assessment tools aligned with the MATATAG Curriculum, and local server hardware.

The LMS and its accompanying e-TURO package, which includes 80 laptops, a smart TV, a USB device, and 12 months of internet connectivity, were turned over to the two schools in September 2026.

During the November 11 monitoring, Grade 2 classes in both schools were observed under three different setups to assess how the system works in various classroom conditions.

In the first setup, all pupils in a class used their respective laptops offline. In the second, the class was divided into two groups, with one group using laptops while the other attended the lesson without them. In the third setup, pupils used laptops to access the e-TURO system online.

Jenny Leigh Daquioag, supervising science research specialist of DOST-NRCP, told GURU Press Cordillera that the activity was part of their efforts to verify whether e-TURO was being properly implemented and assess its effectiveness.

Daquioag explained that e-TURO aims to improve the quality of basic education and bridge the digital divide in public schools, particularly those in areas without internet connectivity.

The system is also designed to reduce teachers' workloads by automating lesson planning, quiz creation, grading, and progress tracking, allowing teachers to devote more time to actual classroom instruction.

“Aligned siya sa MATATAG Curriculum at pwede siyang i-navigate ni teacher based sa kung paano niya gustong ituro yung lesson. Si teacher din hindi na siya mahihirapan mag-uwi ng materials niya, quizzes, and iche-check niya sa bahay kasi nare-reduce yung kanyang workload, kasi real-time na yung scoring niya,” she explained.

If the pilot implementation produces positive results after a year, the system will be recommended to the Department of Education (DepEd) for possible nationwide adoption.

Bulanao Central School and Laya West Elementary School are the only schools in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) selected for the e-TURO pilot implementation. CAR is also among only six regions nationwide chosen to participate in the pilot program.