Duterte hands over the DepEd seal and flag to Angara, signaling the change in leadership. Photo from the Facebook page of Sonny Angara.
Senator Juan Edgardo Angara officially assumed the role of Education Secretary on July 18, taking over from Vice President Sara Duterte in a simple turnover ceremony at the Department of Education (DepEd) Complex in Pasig City.
The transition, marked by Duterte’s final speech as education chief, underscores a new chapter for the Philippine education system.
Angara, who became the country’s 37th Education Secretary, expressed gratitude and outlined his commitment to improving education.
“It is a great honor that President Marcos has bestowed upon me to serve as Secretary of the Department of Education,” Angara said.
He emphasized the importance of building on existing efforts, acknowledging the work done by his predecessor.
“We will build from what you have already started,” he said, addressing Duterte and other outgoing officials. He also paid tribute to them for their dedication and service during challenging times.
Duterte, in her final address, highlighted the achievements of her tenure. She mentioned the return of in-person classes for 27 million learners and the launch of several key programs, including the MATATAG Curriculum and the National Learning Recovery Plan.
“We rolled out the MATATAG Agenda, launched the National Reading Program, National Math Program, and the National Learning Camp,” Duterte said.
Duterte also noted efforts to improve school infrastructure and facilities, including the construction of new classrooms and the rehabilitation of existing ones.
She highlighted the approval of the Infrastructure for Safer and Resilient Schools (ISRS) project by the National Economic Development Authority Board and the World Bank.
“Sana kung ano ang pagtanggap ninyo sa akin dito sa DepEd noong ako ay dumating noong July 2022 ay ganyan din ang mainit na pagtanggap at pagmamahal na ipakita ninyo kay Sec. Angara [I hope that the warm acceptance and love you showed me here at DepEd when I arrived in July 2022 will also be extended to Sec. Angara],” she said.
Angara’s leadership brings optimism among the DepEd community and various stakeholders, who anticipate meaningful reforms and improvements in education.
The new DepEd chief pledged to continue the initiatives started during Duterte’s tenure and work towards further enhancing the quality of education in the Philippines.
