Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara on Wednesday, Oct. 23, highlighted the critical role of teachers, noting that they are not only educators but also catalysts for sustainable economic growth.

“We often hear the phrase, ‘Teacher lang,’ but at DepEd, we say, ‘Teacher sila.’ They are our human capital developers, shaping the future workforce and driving national progress,” Angara said in his address at the 50th Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E).

Addressing business leaders and stakeholders from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Angara emphasized the vital role of teachers as key drivers of human capital development.

He also highlighted the commitment of over 800,000 teachers across the country, many of whom work under difficult conditions in remote and conflict-affected areas.

“Teachers are the heartbeat of our education system,” Angara remarked, recalling his recent visit to Pag-Asa Integrated School, the only public school on the remote island.

He cited the teachers of Pag-Asa Island in the West Philippine Sea as prime examples of unwavering dedication to education.

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https://mb.com.ph/2024/10/21/angara-visits-pag-asa-island

The 50th PBC&E, organized by the PCCI, is the country's largest annual business event.

This year’s conference, themed “Human Capital Development: An Investment in the Future,” centered on enhancing workforce capabilities to meet the evolving demands of the global economy.

Continuing efforts for teachers

Angara also outlined key initiatives by the DepEd aimed at improving teachers’ working conditions in line with the directives of President Marcos.

“In our first 100 days, we have prioritized our teachers, just as the President instructed,” Angara said.

These efforts, he noted, include reducing workloads, increasing benefits, and introducing curriculum flexibility to better support teachers.

Angara also emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies in promoting human capital development, particularly through early childhood education and nutrition programs.

He highlighted DepEd’s collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to ensure that children receive essential support from the earliest stages of life.

To address gaps in educational infrastructure, Angara highlighted DepEd’s ongoing projects aimed at building additional classrooms and providing digital tools, such as laptops, to learners.

“The Philippines is on the brink of great opportunities. But we can only seize them if we act decisively, craft responsive policies, and allocate resources efficiently,” Angara added.