1) Public education in the Philippines is largely based on the American schooling system from before comprehensive high schools were established in the US in the mid-20th century. The Philippine high school system has changed little since the country gained independence from the US in 1946. 2) The Philippine Constitution establishes education as a right for all citizens and mandates the state to establish, maintain, and support a complete education system from elementary through high school levels. Elementary education is compulsory. 3) The Constitution also requires the state to prioritize education spending and ensure teaching is an attractive profession through adequate pay and benefits to recruit and retain top talents.