DepEd vows to uphold 6-hour teaching limit as MATATAG curriculum raises workload worries
Education Secretary Sonny Angara has assured teachers that the Department of Education (DepEd) will enforce the six-hour maximum teaching period mandated by the Magna Carta for Public School Teachers. This commitment comes as educators voice concerns over increased workloads under the new MATATAG curriculum.
Angara addressed the issue during a recent event with Khan Academy Philippines in Pasig City. He acknowledged reports that some teachers are exceeding the six-hour limit.
“We really need to be very strict about that (six-hour teaching policy) so that our teachers won’t get overworked and burned out,” he said.
Teachers’ groups, including the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), have expressed frustration over the MATATAG curriculum, which they claim could increase workloads by up to 30%.
ACT noted that teachers may be required to handle eight classes instead of the usual six, leading to more students and additional grading responsibilities.
They also raised concerns about extended class hours, which could last until 8 p.m. or later.
In response to these challenges, Angara revealed that the DepEd plans to hire 5,000 administrative staff this year and has requested additional funding for 10,000 more positions.
He emphasized that these hires aim to reduce the administrative burden on teachers.
“There are clusters of three schools to one administrative officer, which is difficult,” he said.
The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) has called for a halt to the MATATAG curriculum’s implementation, urging the DepEd to consult with teachers directly affected by these changes.
TDC chair Benjo Basas reported that many teachers feel overwhelmed, saying, “Marami ang nagsasabi na isang linggo pa lang ay pagod na sila. Yung iba nga, unang araw pa lang ay gusto nang sumuko. [Many say they are exhausted after just one week. Some, on the very first day, already want to give up.]”
As the school year progresses, teachers continue to voice concerns about their workload. While Angara’s commitment to enforcing the six-hour teaching limit may offer some relief, educators remain vigilant in advocating for their rights and well-being.
