Teachers raise concerns on continuity of education efforts amid courtesy resignations

A teachers’ group has expressed concerns on the continuity of education programs and initiatives as cabinet members step down following President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s directive. 

In a statement, the Teachers Dignity Coalition (TDC) said the resignations, particularly within education agencies, “could disrupt the continuity of critical programs” for the education sector. 

“This is a surprising development, and we sincerely hope it is driven by the intention to strengthen public service rather than by mere political realignment,” TDC National Chairperson Benjo Basas said. 

Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara said he has filed his courtesy resignation while Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez has already expressed his intention to resign.

Commission on Higher Education Chairperson J. Prospero de Vera III has yet to announce his next move.

The TDC has urged the president to choose “more competent, sincere and honest” replacements of cabinet members who have resigned. 

The group emphasized the importance of choosing someone “genuinely committed to public service, not positioning themselves for the 2028 elections.” 

As of Thursday, at least 24 officials have submitted their resignation and expressed intent to do so.

Marcos on Thursday morning made a call for the courtesy resignation of all Cabinet secretaries and heads of agencies, citing the need to “realign government with the people’s expectations” as he enters the final three years of his presidency.