June 23, 2024 – Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero has commented on the recent resignation of Vice President Sara Duterte from her position as the Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), calling the move “inevitable.” This announcement has sent ripples through the political landscape and educational sector.
Escudero’s remarks came after Duterte officially tendered her resignation, citing personal reasons and a need to focus on other responsibilities. “Given the circumstances and the growing demands on her role as Vice President, her decision to step down as DepEd Secretary was inevitable,” Escudero stated in a media briefing on Sunday.
Duterte, who took on the role in July 2022, has overseen several significant reforms within the education sector, including initiatives aimed at improving the quality of basic education and addressing the learning gap exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these efforts, her tenure has faced criticism over issues such as the implementation of face-to-face classes and the controversial “Matatag” curriculum overhaul.
Escudero acknowledged Duterte’s contributions but emphasized the importance of ensuring continuity in DepEd’s leadership. “Her efforts in pushing for educational reforms are commendable, but it is crucial that her successor continues these initiatives without interruption,” he said.
The resignation has prompted President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to initiate the search for a new DepEd chief. Speculations about potential candidates are already circulating, with several prominent educators and public officials being considered for the role.
In her resignation letter, Duterte expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and reiterated her commitment to the country’s development. “It has been an honor to work towards improving our education system. I will continue to support our educators and students in my capacity as Vice President,” she wrote.
The educational community has expressed mixed reactions to Duterte’s resignation. While some educators and stakeholders have praised her initiatives, others have voiced concerns about the potential disruptions to ongoing projects and reforms.
As the nation awaits the appointment of a new DepEd Secretary, the focus remains on ensuring that the momentum of educational reforms is maintained. The incoming leadership will face the challenge of addressing persistent issues within the sector while building on the foundation laid by Duterte.
The development underscores the dynamic nature of Philippine politics and the ongoing efforts to enhance the country’s education system. The coming weeks will be critical in shaping the future direction of DepEd under new leadership.
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