As the current secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), former senator Sonny Angara has taken on one of the most challenging positions in the country. He knew, from the start, that fixing education would not be simple.
Angara inherited a system that had for years been burdened by problems — not enough classrooms or learning materials, overworked teachers, and low student performance. Underinvestment and neglect have aggravated these problems.
On Tuesday, February 18, Angara talked to Rappler’s Bonz Magsambol about the problems he would have to tackle and his plans for better education in the Philippines.
What Can Teachers Expect?
Angara made it clear his plans are centered around teachers. He aims to:
Give teachers more support and training.
Less admin work so teachers spend more time teaching.
Create conducive environment for classroom scenario and adequate materials for education for teachers and students.
Invest in basic education to close the learning gaps created by the pandemic and other problems facing the sector for decades.
Facing the Learning Crisis
The Philippines is facing a learning crisis, with many students falling behind in the fundamental skills of reading, writing and math. Solving this, Angara conceded, will take time, but he pledged to work in earnest with teachers and education experts to come up with lasting solutions.
Message to Educators
Angara lauded the dedication of Filipino teachers, saying DepEd would do its best to make their jobs easier and more rewarding.
“We cannot fix this education system unless we take care of our teachers. You are the backbone of our schools,” Angara said.
Guro PH will actively monitor the strides Angara is taking to help develop the Philippine education landscape, and will keep you in the loop.
Read more: Tragic killing of teacher inside Leyte public school.
