The resignation of Vice President Sara Duterte from her post as Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) ignites hope for solutions to the nation’s troubled education systems, according to Liberal Party President and Albay Representative Edcel Lagman.

Duterte’s resignation, announced on June 19, has been framed as an act of concern for the country’s educators and students. 

“Dala ng tunay na malasakit para sa ating mga guro at kabataang Pilipino [due to my genuine concern for our teachers and the Filipino youth],” Duterte stated in her resignation letter, emphasizing her commitment to improving the educational landscape.

However, Lagman interpreted Duterte’s statement to mean “her incumbency was a liability to teachers and students.”

The lawmaker expressed optimism about Duterte’s departure. He sees the move as a significant step that “will hopefully lead to the solution of the alarming crisis in Philippine education.”

Lagman highlighted Duterte’s exit could pave the way for a new leader who can better manage and reform the education sector.

Duterte’s tenure as Secretary of Education was marred by controversy and criticism, including debates over curriculum changes and school infrastructure issues. 

Her resignation, therefore, is viewed by many as a fresh opportunity to tackle these problems with new leadership. 

The search for her successor is already underway, with calls for an experienced educator, coming “from the ranks,” to take charge.

The new DepEd chief will face several challenges, including low literacy rates, inadequate school facilities, and a shortage of educational resources. 

Recently, Filipino students ranked second to last in creative thinking in a report by the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). The study revealed that the Philippines scored an average of 14 points, just above Albania’s 13. In contrast, the average was 33 points. 

This ranking adds another layer of concern to the already troubled Philippine education system, highlighting significant deficiencies that need urgent attention.

Industry stakeholders are hopeful that Duterte’s departure will bring in a leader who can implement effective reforms and lead the education system toward a brighter future.

Likewise, it also signifies a broader political shift. This as Lagman noted that Duterte’s resignation as DepEd chief ends the “increasingly tenuous partisan relations between the Duterte and Marcos political power blocs,” suggesting this could lead to more unified efforts to address national issues.