English plays a significant role in the Philippine educational system as one of the country’s official languages and a primary medium of instruction. Its prominence stems from its historical use as a language of administration and education during the American colonial period (Santos et al., 2022). Recognizing its importance in developing learners’ communication competence, the Department of Education (2016) continues to uphold standards for the integration of English within the K–12 curriculum. The use of English in basic education is intended to enhance students’ language proficiency, which is considered essential for academic achievement and global competitiveness (Canilao, 2018).
To further strengthen English language instruction, Executive Order No. 210 (2013), signed by former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, promoted the use of English as a medium of instruction. The policy sought to improve the quality of English education through enhanced teacher training and the provision of adequate instructional materials and learning resources (Saraceni, 2018). These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring effective English language teaching and learning across educational levels.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain, particularly for non-English major teachers who are assigned to teach English subjects. Unlike teachers who specialize in English language education, non-specialist teachers may have lower levels of proficiency and confidence in using the language, which can affect their ability to explain complex concepts and facilitate meaningful student learning (Tuan & Lan, 2024). Even qualified teachers may experience uncertainty regarding vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, challenges that are often more pronounced among non-native or non-specialist educators (Perry, 2023). These difficulties underscore the need for continuous professional development, targeted language support, and instructional interventions to strengthen teachers’ English proficiency and enhance the quality of English language instruction.
