The Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (SCAP) has issued a challenge to newly appointed Education Secretary Senator Sonny Angara to address the country’s worsening educational crisis urgently.

The SCAP prompted Angara to take swift action, warning that Filipino students cannot afford further disappointment. The group urged major changes to fix past mismanagement and restore trust in the education system.

The Philippines faces an alarming educational crisis. In the latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results, Filipino students ranked second lowest out of 64 countries in creative thinking tests. 

The SCAP emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues, stating that the future of the nation hinges on revitalizing the education sector.

“Do not disappoint the Filipino students… In the aftermath of the previous secretary’s controversial tenure, marked by setbacks and widespread dissatisfaction, there is an urgent call for decisive leadership and student-centered policies,” the statement said.

SCAP highlighted the tenure of the former secretary, Vice President Sara Duterte, who was criticized for mishandling confidential funds and engaging in conflicts with other public officials. 

These actions, they said, left the education sector in disarray and neglected the long-standing problems faced by students and teachers.

The SCAP stressed the need for increased funding for education, transparency, participation, and accountability measures. 

They also called for improvements in the curriculum, protection of safe spaces in schools and genuine student representation.

“The hopes of Filipino students must be fulfilled by solving the education crisis,” the SCAP stated, calling on Angara to prioritize student-centered policies. 

The group believes that by addressing these issues, the education system can regain the confidence of students and teachers alike.