In a country where education is the linchpin of progress, hiring motivated and effective teachers has never been more critical.
We laud the Department of Budget and Management for authorizing the Department of Education (DepEd) to hire 16,000 additional teachers this year.
Ensuring an adequate number of educators is essential to addressing the learning crisis—especially in light of recent findings that 18 million Filipinos are functionally illiterate.
We have long advocated for the immediate filling of vacant government positions, noting that one in every ten remains unfilled.
This is particularly urgent in the education sector.
Beyond classroom teachers, there is also a pressing need for special education teachers, guidance counselors, and administrative staff—roles where shortages are also evident.
As Commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), we will work closely with DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and remain committed to ensuring that excellent educators are on the frontlines of shaping the next generation.
To support this goal, we passed Republic Act No. 11713, or the Excellence in Teacher Education Act, to improve the quality of teacher education through the strengthening of the Teacher Education Council. This law also establishes scholarship programs and promotes the continuing professionalization of teachers.
There will be no letup in our efforts to support their professional growth and create more opportunities for career advancement—ensuring a more diverse, well-trained, and highly qualified pool of Filipino educators.
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