December 25, 2024 - Education Secretary Sonny Angara on Wednesday expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his steadfast support of the Department of Education (DepEd) and pledged to push forward key reforms aimed at enhancing the country’s education system as the nation celebrates the holiday season.
“Sa suporta ng ating Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at ating mga kasangga sa pamahalaan at pribadong sektor, magpapatuloy tayo sa pagsusulong ng mga programa at reporma upang iangat ang sistema ng basic education sa bansa (With the support of our President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and our partners in the public and private sectors, we will continue to pursue programs and reforms to elevate the basic education system in the country),” Angara said in a statement.
President Marcos has previously pledged significant improvements for teachers, including career progression, opportunities for upskilling and reskilling, increased teaching and medical allowances, and a Service Recognition Incentive (SRI). Measures to reduce teachers’ workloads and double vacation service credits were also promised as part of broader efforts to enhance their welfare.
DepEd has initiated reforms to improve students’ problem-solving and critical thinking skills, conducted curriculum reviews to enhance employability, and fostered partnerships for classroom digitalization, infrastructure development, and the provision of learning resources.
Looking ahead to 2025, Angara reaffirmed DepEd’s commitment to delivering modernized and inclusive education for learners across the country.
“Sa susunod na taon, muli nating pagtibayin ang diwa ng bayanihang Pilipino upang maisulong ang naabot, moderno, at dekalidad na edukasyon para sa ating mga guro at mag-aaral. Basta't tulong-tulong, makakamit natin ang pagbabago sa edukasyon ng Bagong Pilipinas (Next year, let’s fortify anew the essence of Filipino heroes to attain an inclusive, modern, and quality education for our teachers and learners. As long as we’re helping each other, we will achieve the changes in education under the New Philippines),” he said.
The education secretary also extended his heartfelt holiday greetings to DepEd’s teaching and non-teaching staff, thanking them for their unwavering support during his tenure.
“I wish everyone a joyous Yuletide season. Together, we will continue working towards a brighter future for education,” he added.