In a move poised to reshape Philippine education, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced that Senator Sonny Angara will assume the role of Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) on July 19. This announcement, made during the 17th Cabinet Meeting in Malacañan, has generated excitement and optimism across the nation.
Vice President Sara Duterte, who previously held the position, laid a robust foundation with the introduction of the MATATAG curriculum aimed at streamlining learning competencies—a significant step towards enhancing the educational framework. Her tenure was marked by a dedication to improving education and compassion for teachers and students, a legacy that Sen. Angara intends to continue and expand.
I was over the moon to learn that Sen. Angara will be the next DepEd Secretary. His extensive academic background and legislative accomplishments highlight his competence and intelligence. Holding degrees from the London School of Economics, the University of the Philippines, and Harvard University, he has a solid foundation in both law and economics. His legislative work, including the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act and the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 (K-12), underscores his deep understanding of the educational sector and his commitment to enhancing it.
The President has indeed made an excellent choice in selecting Sen. Angara, who not only possesses the intellectual acumen necessary for the role but also demonstrates exceptional competence and capability. I cannot help but admire the Senator, as do many of my colleagues.
When news of his selection broke, my boss, Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman, even shed tears of joy. According to her, Sen. Angara’s dedication to service is genuinely heartfelt.
He hasn’t even officially assumed the position, but his plan to simplify the curriculum and enhance teacher benefits already sounds promising. It aims to create a more efficient and supportive educational environment. This selection represents a progressive step towards a brighter future for Filipino education, promising collaborative efforts to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.
Sen. Angara intends to go beyond curriculum improvements. He is deeply invested in elevating the morale and well-being of teachers, the unsung heroes of education. Recognizing the overwhelming non-teaching tasks that burden educators, he is determined to alleviate these distractions. His proposal includes providing teachers with better access to financial institutions and enhancing their overall benefits.
“Kaya maganda ’yung instruction ng Pangulo sa atin na mag-focus sa pagtuturo at ayusin din ’yung kanilang mga benepisyo para inspired at saka motivated sila,” he noted, showcasing his commitment to inspiring and motivating teachers.
Imagine a world where educators can access low-interest loans, similar to those available to entrepreneurs, freeing them from financial strain. Angara is eager to explore potential pay hikes for teachers in the near future, further underscoring his dedication to enhancing the teaching profession.
Despite the significant challenges, particularly following the incredible legacy of his father, the late Senate President Edgardo J. Angara (SEJA), I am confident in Sen. Angara’s ability to rise to the occasion.
SEJA was a distinguished educator and legislator who made monumental contributions to the Philippine education sector, leaving a lasting impact that continues to shape the nation's academic landscape.
As the president of the University of the Philippines (UP) from 1981 to 1987, SEJA implemented vital reforms that strengthened the general education program, introduced a seven-year honors medical curriculum, and revitalized the arts and basic sciences. He strongly defended the university's tradition of dissent and successfully campaigned for financial independence, substantially boosting the state university’s reputation for academic excellence.
SEJA’s influence extended beyond UP to his legislative work, where he authored several landmark laws that restructured and improved the Philippine educational system. Notably, he led the Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM) during the 8th Congress, which instituted wide-ranging reforms. His legislative achievements include the Free High School Act, ensuring free secondary education for all Filipino students, and the establishment of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), which oversee higher education and technical-vocational training, respectively.
Sen. Angara has big shoes to fill, given his father’s high standards and remarkable achievements. However, Sen. Angara has consistently demonstrated his skill and dedication. I have no doubts that under this new leadership, the Department of Education will thrive and continue to make substantial progress.
As the new school year approaches, Sen. Angara assures that preparations for the opening of classes on July 29 will proceed without a hitch. His seamless takeover promises continuity and stability, ensuring that students and teachers experience no disruption.
Congratulations, Secretary Angara! There is hope!