July 18, 2024 - In a formal ceremony held today at the DepEd Central Office in Pasig City, Vice President and outgoing Secretary of Education Sara Z. Duterte officially handed over the leadership of the Department of Education (DepEd) to Senator and incoming Secretary Sonny Angara.
The ceremony marked the symbolic transition of power, with VP Duterte passing on the DepEd seal, DepEd flag, and Transition Report to Sec. Angara. This signifies the official change in leadership for the department.
To further commemorate the occasion, a tree planting activity was conducted within the DepEd Central Office grounds, led by the two officials. This symbolic gesture signifies the hope for a fruitful and enduring tenure for Sec. Angara as he takes on the helm of the department.
Sec. Angara becomes the 37th Secretary of Education of the Philippines. He brings with him a wealth of experience in the field of education, having served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education and the Congressional Oversight Committee on Education.
Duterte, in her farewell address, highlighted the accomplishments of her two-year term as DepEd chief, including the safe return to face-to-face classes, the implementation of the MATATAG curriculum, and the reduction of administrative tasks for teachers. She expressed her confidence in Sec. Angara's ability to continue the progress made by the department.
Sec. Angara, in his acceptance speech, outlined his plans for the future of DepEd, emphasizing his commitment to creating a system where teachers are happy, inspired, and excited to teach, and students are eager to learn. He also vowed to address the challenges faced by the education sector, such as the lack of classrooms and the need for more qualified teachers.
The turnover ceremony was attended by DepEd officials and employees, as well as representatives from the education sector. The event was a testament to the shared commitment of VP Duterte and Sec. Angara to providing quality education for all Filipino children.