The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines on Wednesday, May 22, welcomed President Marcos’ decision to revert to the traditional school calendar for School Year (SY) 2024-2025, but stressed the need for more substantial reforms in the education sector.
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https://mb.com.ph/2024/5/22/marcos-o-ks-reverting-of-school-calendar-to-old-schedule
While welcoming the move, ACT chairperson Vladimer Quetua urged the Marcos administration to address more pressing issues in the education sector.
“We now urge the President to take decisive actions in resolving backlogs, addressing classroom shortages, and ensuring climate-resilient school infrastructure,” Quetua said in a statement.
ACT has long advocated for a return to the old school calendar, arguing that holding classes during the hottest months negatively impacts learning and the well-being of students and teachers.
Quetua also credited the move to the "consistent clamor" of public school teachers, students, and parents for a return to the old calendar and stressed that the adjustment is just a "first step."
"We reiterate our calls for long-term solutions," Quetua added.
He emphasized the need for the government to invest in infrastructure and manpower.
The group proposed hiring more teachers, building more classrooms, and ensuring proper ventilation in schools.
Furthermore, Quetua went on to stress the need for a comprehensive approach to the climate crisis.
"The worsening climate crisis, largely brought about by corporate environmental destruction, adversely affects not only the education sector but the entire socio-economic life of our people," he said.