President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has announced that he requires additional time to select the next Department of Education (DepEd) secretary, who will succeed Vice President Sara Duterte. In an interview held in Makati City, Marcos acknowledged the complexity of the decision-making process and emphasized the need to make the right choice.
“It turns out it’s harder than I thought because we absolutely have to get it right. So, I’m giving myself more time,” Marcos stated.
The new DepEd chief will face the challenge of managing a vast bureaucracy and handling intricate responsibilities. Marcos revealed that he has thoroughly reviewed numerous curriculum vitae (CVs) and identified several highly qualified candidates. However, the selection process extends beyond mere qualifications.
“We must choose someone who not only understands the importance of education but also possesses the qualities necessary to lead this immense democracy—the DepEd,” Marcos explained.
“Our goal is to achieve meaningful progress and elevate educational standards.”
As the search continues, President Marcos remains committed to finding an individual who can galvanize positive change within the education sector. The decision carries significant weight, impacting millions of students and educators across the country.
Marcos refused to identify the people he is considering for the post, but said he has noted all the qualities raised by different sectors for the next Education secretary.
The President noted that there are calls for the new secretary to be an educator, administrator and a historical professor.
“All of these, and they are all valid concerns. That’s what education is all about,” Marcos said, as he highlighted the need to appoint an educator who can help both the teachers and students.
“Ang lagi naman natin tiningnan ang mga test score natin (What we have always looked at are the test scores). We have to bring up the test scores. You all know that. So, you need an educator who understands how to help the students, how to help the teachers, number one,” he said.
President Marcos expressed gratitude to Duterte for her work in DepEd.
“Mahirap ang trabaho ng DepEd (The job in DepEd is hard). That’s why we have to thank Inday Sara really for the effort that she put in,” he said.
Duterte announced on June 19 that she is stepping down as DepEd Secretary and vice chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
In her resignation letter, Duterte said she has prepared a 30-day plan to ensure a seamless transition at the DepEd.
The President said Duterte did not provide any reason for her resignation.