Teachers’ groups discuss education concerns with Angara

MANILA, Philippines — Two teachers’ groups met with incoming education secretary Sen. Sonny Angara to discuss issues that need the Department of Education’s priority – from salary increases to better classroom conditions for teachers and students.

In a statement, the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) said it met with Angara on Wednesday to discuss salary increases, strengthening of curriculum, provision of school supplies and facilities, implementation of recent DepEd orders and several provisions of the Magna Carta for Teachers as well as the housing programs, educational assistance and health benefits for teachers.

The TDC said they also discussed the improvement of the promotion system up to Senior High School level, abolition of the results-based performance management system, appointment of additional personnel including SPED teachers, enhancement of Government Service Insurance System policies and protection for teachers facing charges.

“Both parties committed to maintaining open communication regarding the concerns of teachers and the education sector,” TDC said. “While teachers had a positive initial impression of the incoming secretary, the TDC vowed to remain vigilant regarding DepEd’s policies and programs despite the open communication with the new administration.”

Meanwhile, officials and public school teachers aligned with the Alliance of Concerned Teachers, including ACT-Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro, also held dialogues with Angara on Wednesday.

Earlier, Angara promised his full support for improved salaries, benefits and better working conditions for teachers.

He said he would study the proposal, particularly by ACT, for the P50,000 entry-level pay for public school teachers.