Senator Sonny Angara clarified that he has not received any formal offer to become the next Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), despite media speculation tagging him to the position left vacant by Vice President Sara Duterte.

On Monday, Angara addressed senate reporters, saying, “No one has spoken to me about that,” in response to rumors of his candidacy for the DepEd role following Duterte’s resignation last week.

President Marcos is reportedly considering three University of the Philippines graduates for the position, including Angara. Marikina City 2nd District Rep. Stella Quimbo and Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual are also among those being considered.

Angara, who is on his second and final Senate term until 2025, has hinted at potential future plans in his home province of Aurora. However, he has not disclosed specific details about his post-Senate career.

Meanwhile, key figures in Congress have voiced support for other potential candidates including House Ways and Means Committee Chair Rep. Joey Salceda, who endorsed Commission on Higher Education chair Prospero de Vera III and Milwida Guevara of the Synergeia Foundation for the DepEd role.

Salceda highlighted De Vera’s advocacy for community colleges and Guevara’s efforts in addressing structural issues within the education system. He emphasized the importance of choosing between them, urging Marcos to consider their contributions to the sector.

The departure of Vice President Duterte from her Cabinet post has stirred discussions about accountability in education governance. Gabriela partylist Rep. Arlene Brosas emphasized Duterte’s resignation does not exempt her from accountability in budget deliberations.

Rep. Joel Chua criticized Duterte’s tenure, calling for a competent replacement who can undo what he described as damage to teachers, schools, and students.

Representative Edcel Lagman expressed hope that Duterte’s successor would be a seasoned educator capable of effectively managing the country’s educational system.

The succession to lead DepEd, a crucial post in shaping Philippine education policy, remains a topic of keen interest as the government prepares for its next steps following Duterte’s resignation.

Senator Angara’s statement underscores ongoing speculation and uncertainty surrounding the appointment process, leaving the future leadership of DepEd in the balance.