Vice President Sara Duterte has resigned from her positions as Secretary of Education and Vice Chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), as announced by Malacañang on Wednesday.

Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil disclosed that Duterte submitted her resignation during a visit to Malacañang at 2:21 p.m. on Wednesday. She stepped down as a Cabinet Member and Secretary of the Department of Education, as well as relinquishing her role as Vice Chairperson of NTF-ELCAC. 

Garafil noted that Duterte did not provide a specific reason for her decision.

“She declined to give a reason why. She will continue to serve as Vice President. We thank her for her service,” Garafil remarked, confirming that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. had accepted Duterte’s resignation from the Cabinet.

Duterte was appointed Education Secretary when Marcos assumed office on June 30, 2022, following their successful election campaign under the UniTeam Coalition.

During a speech at the DepEd Main Office in Pasig City, Duterte assured a smooth transition, confirming her resignation effective July 19, 2024.

“Earlier today, June 19, 2024, I sought an audience with the President and tendered my resignation as Secretary of Education, effective July 19, 2024. I have given my 30-day notice to ensure a proper and orderly transition for the next secretary,” Duterte stated.

Reflecting on her achievements in education, Duterte highlighted improvements such as a 30-day break without mandatory or voluntary tasks for teachers, administrative task reductions to ease their workload, and enhanced insurance coverage for Philippine educators. 

She expressed gratitude to teachers, non-teaching personnel, local governments, and private stakeholders for their support in implementing reforms. She also vowed to remain an advocate for teachers and learners nationwide, emphasizing her commitment to education.

“My resignation is not a sign of weakness, but a genuine concern for our teachers and Filipino youth. Though I may no longer oversee the department, we will continue to champion the quality education every Filipino deserves,” Duterte affirmed.

“While I may no longer hold the position of Education Secretary, I will continue to serve as a guardian for the welfare of every teacher and student in the Philippines,” she concluded.