The next DepEd secretary

As of this writing, I am still dumbfounded by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s remark that he will announce "at the end of the week" who the next Education Secretary will be. However, at an event last Saturday, he mentioned needing "more time" due to the significant amount of work required in the department. It's not that he couldn't keep his word; I was just eager to find out who will replace Vice President Sara Duterte Carpio, who tendered her resignation. It is always interesting to know how this leader thinks.

Vice President Carpio, who also visited Cebu last Saturday, stated that she has prepared for the transition. This is regardless of whoever will be announced. She clarified to the media that all the necessary paperwork from her tenure as Education secretary is already complete and ready for turnover. However, she did not recommend a specific replacement, emphasizing that the position requires the president's "trust and confidence." While she is correct, it wouldn't hurt to suggest who could fill her shoes.

Many of my friends are public school teachers, most of whom were my student teachers in high school. They all share the sentiment that the next Education secretary must be an educator. I agree with them; it makes perfect sense. Only someone with the heart of an educator can truly understand how the system operates. While we welcome visionaries and forward-looking individuals, the secretary must comprehend the challenges faced by teachers nationwide.

For example, many teachers struggle to balance teaching with administrative responsibilities. Although DepEd has reduced some of these duties, teachers still face demands from extracurricular activities, sometimes imposed by local government units. As a result, teachers often feel burnt out, undervalued for their efforts, and inadequately compensated. Schools in remote areas also face challenges in providing adequate facilities for students. Moreover, students themselves may lack motivation to attend school, preferring to assist their parents with farming or other livelihoods. This underscores the harsh reality of poverty, where many lack the luxury of choice.

If only the president could hear these pleas and consider them in his decision making. It is a pivotal and difficult decision to make. Carpio may have faced controversies during her tenure as DepEd secretary, but she has left her mark on the department. The next secretary should not only possess the heart of an educator but also be a decisive leader. Prioritizing the welfare of teachers will foster a generation of students who not only excel academically but also exhibit patriotism. The vice president is still keen on finishing her term as she confirmed attendance to all DepEd national events in Cebu. It is no question why Cebu is hosting all these events; it must be pure coincidence. For those in the department, this will be her last days as secretary and the start of her days with no strings attached to the current administration. We might be seeing a new opposition on the rise or none at all.