Senator Sonny Angara (Facebook)

Ranking congressmen from both sides of the fence--the majority and minority--have welcomed Senatpr Sonny Angara's appointment as the next Department of Education (DepEd) secretary. 

Joining Angara’s growing list of well-wishers over his Cabinet appointment are Committee on Education Chairman Pasig lone district Rep. Roman Romulo, Committee on Appropriations Chairman Ako-Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, and Deputy Minority Leader Bagong Henerasyon Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera. 

"Una-una, I wish him the best of luck, kasi magkasama kami ni Senator Sonny sa Edcom 2 and before in Congress," Romulo said on Tuesday, July 2. 

(First of all, I wish him the best of luck because Senator Sonny and I are part of Edcom 2 and were together before in Congress.) 

"So, I'm sure he is aware of ‘yong (the) challenges eh...."Kasi ang dami naman talagang reforms (There are really a lot of reforms) that must first be introduced, that must be implemented. So hopefully, Senator Sonny is aware of all this, and so long as we are one in that direction towards the reforms, I'm sure we can all work together," he said. 

The solon, who is part of the House majority, asked the public to support President Marcos' choice for new DepEd chief, especially if it will help solidify the needed reforms in the education sector.  

Another majority member, Co, reckoned that Angara was "suited" for the DepEd post. 

"President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr chose well. We believe Secretary Angara is a good fit for the Department of Education considering the wealth of expertise, credentials, and perspectives being brought to DepEd," Co said.

"We look forward to meeting the new secretary on SONA (State of the Nation Address) Day July 22 and during the budget hearings. This early, we advise the Secretary to scrutinize the prepared 2025 DepEd budget and make sure that budget directly solves the quality crisis in our country's public K to 12 schools," he added. 

"The sooner you take hold of the DepEd reins, the better," the Bicolano further said. 

Over in the House minority, Herrera extended on Tuesday her "heartfelt congratulations" for being chosen for the DepEd portfolio. 

“His extensive experience in education policy and his dedication to the advancement of our educational system make him the perfect fit for this crucial role,” she said. 

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Herrera emphasized the importance of Angara’s leadership in navigating the current challenges faced by the education sector. “Senator Angara’s proven track record in legislative work, especially his advocacy for educational reforms, positions him well to lead the DepEd." 

“Senator Angara’s legislative initiatives, such as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, reflect his dedication to making education accessible to all. I am optimistic that his leadership will bring about further improvements in our educational system,” she said. 

Herrera continued, “We are ready to work closely with Secretary Angara to advance our shared vision of a better, more inclusive education system. We look forward to the positive changes his leadership will bring." 

Vice President Sara Duterte will vacate her post as DepEd secretary on July 19. She tendered her resignation last June 19.