Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara called on education stakeholders to collaborate in advancing transformative reforms aimed at empowering Filipino learners.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Dec. 24, DepEd said Angara made the call during DepEd Region III’s 2024 Education Week at the Baler Convention Center in Aurora.
“As constituents of the Department of Education, we know that educational excellence is a collective journey,” Angara said.
“Lahat po tayo rito [ay] may kontribusyon. Each of us has a crucial role in shaping the future of our students,” he added.
Angara reaffirmed DepEd’s commitment to tackling critical issues, including enhancing school resources, promoting teacher welfare and professional development, and addressing social and economic barriers such as malnutrition and poverty that impede student learning.
“Transformative education is not just the act of teaching; it is about creating a culture—a culture that fosters growth, collaboration, and empowerment among educators and learners,” Angara said.
He also acknowledged the challenging work of DepEd personnel and noted that they “are working very hard for learning outcomes and for the welfare of teachers.”
“You [DepEd personnel] deserve every centavo,” Angara stressed.
The summit showcased various activities, including student performances, exhibits, networking booths highlighting schools' best practices and innovations, a consultative assembly, a mental health and resiliency talk, a sports festival, a youth jam, a heritage visit, and an outreach program.
Angara also commended the efforts of DepEd Region III for organizing the event, highlighting Central Luzon’s commitment to building partnerships and providing transformative educational opportunities for Filipino learners.