The Department of Education was established through the Education Decree of 1863 as the Superior Commission of Primary Instruction under a Chairman. The Education agency underwent many reorganization efforts in the 20th century in order to better define its purpose vis a vis the changing administrations and charters. The present-day Department of Education was eventually mandated through Republic Act 9155, otherwise known as the Governance of Basic Education act of 2001 which establishes the mandate of this agency.

   The Department of Education (DepEd) formulates, implements, and coordinates policies, plans, programs, and projects in the areas of formal and non-formal basic education. It supervises all elementary and secondary education institutions, including alternative learning systems, both public and private; and provides for the establishment and maintenance of a complete, adequate, and integrated system of basic education relevant to the goals of national development.

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DEPED: PHYSICAL EDUCATION

   The Department of Education integrates physical education and sports in the K to 12 physical education curriculums, with fitness and movement education as the core of its content. This includes values, knowledge, skills, and experiences in physical activity participation, with the curriculum recognizing the view that fitness and healthy physical activity behaviors must take the family and other environmental settings into consideration.

The Bureau of Physical Education and School Sports of the Department of Education were established to promote the ideals of sports and physical fitness through elementary and secondary schools. The Bureau of Learner Support Services - School Sports Division (BLSS- SSD) was designed to develop and produce the DEPED sports manual which includes the Palarong Pambansa and other youth national sports games.

DEPED: NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SPORTS

   Through Republic Act (RA) 11470, the National Academy of Sports was established and designed as an educational facility for student-athletes. The NAS system aims to further support the development of Filipino student-athletes towards becoming highly talented, competent, and exceptionally gifted athletes who will continue to give world-class recognition and pride to the country. In coordination with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), it is directed to develop the athletic skills and talents of students in facilities at par with international standards.