22 August 2013 - The Philippine Embassy in Bangkok presented its Alternative Learning System (ALS) project at the National Convention on ALS in Baguio, Philippines, from August 13 to 15, upon the invitation of the Department of Education (DepEd). Over 2,800 representatives from DepEd Central and Regional District Offices, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, academe and local government units participated in the convention.

The Embassy, in coordination with the DepEd-Bureau of Alternative Learning System and the ARK Bangkok Schoolhouse and Ministry Center, pioneered the conduct of the ALS Accreditation and Equivalency (ALS A&E) examinations outside the Philippines when it successfully organized the first examinations in February 2012. This was followed by the second ALS A&E in November 2012.

The ALS A&E test offers learners two learning achievement tools for two learning levels—Elementary and Secondary. It is a paper-and-pencil-based test, using multiple choice and composition writing. The test items are based on the learning competencies of the five learning strands of the ALS Curriculum.

Those who passed the test will receive a certificate bearing the signature of the Secretary of the Department of Education, which will allow them to enroll in post-secondary, technical, vocational courses and skills training programs.  END