DEPED REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO TEACHERS

JEAN DULATRE MIRO

Vice President and Secretary of Education Sara Z. Duterte hailed teachers across the country for shaping not only the minds of the youth but also in molding the future of the nation.

According to the Secretary, teachers are the architects of dreams of Filipino learners, the guiding lights that illuminate the path to knowledge, understanding, and personal growth.

With this, she reaffirmed DepEd’s commitment to supporting and uplifting teachers’ lives. As a way of ensuring that the Department of Education listens to their pleas, the agency has taken substantial steps to address some, if not all of their concerns.

She noted that the Department ensured that this year’s school calendar includes a well-deserved break of 30 consecutive days, free from any DepEd activities that require volunteer work.

In addition, VP Sara also shared that an interim guideline is being prepared to significantly and immediately reduce the administrative workload of teachers.

She said this will free up their time and energy, enabling then to fully focus on the education and development of their students.

She also mentioned that DepEd procured Personal Accident Insurance through the GSIS to provide coverage for all teachers and DepEd personnel. The insurance cover offers up to Php 100,000 for accidental death or dismemberment and up to Php 30,000 per year for medical reimbursement due to injuries sustained in accidents.

DepEd also recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement with GSIS to guarantee a dedicated and exclusive lane for teachers in all its branches and establish a specialized team to ensure that teachers’ concerns are being given proper attention.

In cooperation with GSIS, DepEd will also develop a Supplemental Health Insurance cover, ensuring comprehensive support for teachers’ health needs.

In terms of recruitment and promotion, VP Sara shared that an automated system for objective selection is being prepared by the Department to ensure a fair and equitable process for the education workforce.

-oOoThe author is Teacher I at Don Antonio Lee Chi Uan Integrated School