TDC calls for non-political DepEd secretary following Duterte's resignation

TDC calls for non-political DepEd secretary following Duterte's resignation

The Teachers' Dignity Coalition (TDC) has urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to appoint a non-political figure as the next Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) following Vice President Sara Duterte's resignation from the role. TDC Chairperson Benjo Basas emphasized the need for a candidate who is not involved in partisan politics to avoid political conflicts and ensure a focus on educational progress. 

"We call on our president to ensure that the next DepEd secretary is not a politician or actively involved in partisan politics. This is to ensure that DepEd is spared from political bickering and being dragged into divisive political fighting," said Basas. 

Basas called for an excellent manager to lead the country's largest bureaucracy, stressing that the new secretary should come from the academy or have public school teaching experience to understand the daily challenges faced by teachers and students. This background would foster informed decisions and genuine commitment to improving education. 

The TDC's appeal highlights the need for a politically neutral, supportive, and effective educational system. Basas also mentioned the importance of addressing various strategic concerns and policy clarifications, including salary increases for teachers, overtime pay, the proposed reduction of clerical tasks, and guidance on the RPMS and PBB following President Marcos' Executive Order No. 61.