The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) have joined forces to enhance science education in the country.
DepEd, in a statement issued on Friday, Jan. 3, said that the two departments affirmed their commitment to collaborate during the appointment ceremony of the new campus directors of the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) on Jan. 2.
This strategic collaboration aims to equip learners with stronger foundational skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), fostering innovation and preparing students for global competitiveness.
By leveraging resources and expertise from both agencies, the partnership seeks to address gaps in science education and inspire a new generation of Filipino scientists and innovators.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara and Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. underscored the importance of working together to advance science education and cultivate the next generation of scientists and innovators.
“We are fully committed to working together,” Angara said. “One thing we discovered in your song is that science is the foundation of a progressive nation. That’s the bottom line here,” he added, referring to the DOST Hymn.
Angara also emphasized the mandates of DOST, highlighting his efforts in securing additional funding for the agency's facilities and operations.
“I was once your supporter in the Senate, and now, consider me one of your fans,” Angara said. “I’m looking forward to the inspired leadership of our three campus directors under our great Secretary Rene,” he added.
Solidum, meanwhile, said that the collaboration with DepEd is a significant step in strengthening the country’s science, technology, and innovation foundation.
“We are very happy with the appointment of former Senator, now DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, because we believe that the success of science, technology, and innovation really lies in our educational system, starting with our youth,” Solidum said.
“We have been discussing how we can work together with them and help them as well in making sure that our reach extends beyond the Philippine Science High School system,” he added.
The ceremony celebrated the appointment of three campus directors: Dr. Rod Allan A. De Lara (PSHS - Main Campus), Dr. Myrna B. Libutaque (PSHS - Western Visayas Campus), and Dr. Mary Grace A. Navarro (PSHS - Ilocos Region Campus).
Angara and Solidum acknowledged their pivotal role in shaping young minds to contribute to the nation’s scientific progress.