Gatchalian suggests Angara for Next DepEd Secretary

Gatchalian suggests Angara for Next DepEd Secretary

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, has said Senator Sonny Angara should be the next Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), following Vice President Sara Duterte's recent resignation from the position. Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education, emphasized Angara's extensive experience and long-standing commitment to educational advocacy.

Gatchalian highlighted Angara's extensive experience and advocacy in the field of education, citing their collaboration in the Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM). “He knows the problems, he knows the solutions,” Gatchalian remarked. “Education has been his advocacy even before. This is why, when he was Chairman of the Finance Committee, he allocated significant funds for education.”

While Gatchalian has previously opposed the idea of a politician leading the DepEd, he believes Angara is an exception. “He’s a public servant more than a politician. His discussions are always substantive,” Gatchalian said, emphasizing that Angara prioritizes public service over politics.

"He’s a public servant more than a politician dahil kapag makikita natin siya hindi naman siya sawsaw dito, sawsaw doon, talagang substantive ‘yung kanyang discussion," said Gatchalian.

In response to reports suggesting he might be considered for the role, Angara clarified on Monday that no formal offer has been made. “There has been no offer for me to be the new DepEd Secretary,” he stated.

Gatchalian stressed the importance of the next Secretary having experience in managing large organizations, given that DepEd employs nearly one million civil servants. Despite his support for Angara, Gatchalian dismissed the possibility of taking the role himself, expressing his commitment to finishing his term until 2028.

As the search for the next DepEd Secretary continues, Gatchalian remains confident in Angara's capability to "hit the ground running" and effectively lead the department.