Shocking Absence: Where was the Secretary of Education During Crucial Senate Presentation

 

Where could we find the Secretary of Education right now?

Today, a Matatag Agenda presentation was scheduled at the Senate. Interestingly, the Secretary of Education was notably absent, as was the Undersecretary responsible for the curriculum.

A substitute was sent in their place, despite not having been present during the Secretary's curriculum approval. How amusing!

This only confirms my longstanding belief that the Vice President is preoccupied with less significant tasks, while disregarding crucial matters like the Matatag agenda - a vital education reform aimed at addressing the issue of 90% learning poverty. Is her commitment truly lacking? 🤦🏽‍♀️

A consistent observation in assessments of the K-12 curriculum is the abundance of learning competencies. Yet, she's introducing peace education because it's "close to her heart." Can this be taken seriously?

Later, DepEd clarified that this was not an additional learning competency per se, but rather an assurance that peace education is integrated into the curriculum. Senator Pimentel emphasized that the entire matter need not be revisited solely because it holds a special place in the VP's heart. How amusing!

Let me clarify, I initially supported the Vice President's appointment as the DepEd Secretary, hoping that her political influence and the Marcos-Duterte alliance would prioritize education, considering the pressing issue of 90% learning poverty. Just imagine, 9 out of 10 ten-year-old children unable to read or write. A truly concerning situation.

However, it appears that the Vice President's dedication to education is questionable. Maybe she should seek a position that truly aligns with her aspirations. The education crisis demands dedicated time and attention.

No, we don't need her to merely engage in symbolic gestures like planting trees for teachers. What we urgently require is for her to elucidate the Matatag agenda and address the most critical education challenges in the Philippines.

So where is the Secretary of Education?

Today, there’s a scheduled Matatag Agenda presentation at the Senate. Guess what! The Secretary of Education was not there, neither the Undersecretary who is responsible for the curriculum.

They sent someone who is not even in the room… pic.twitter.com/qOrrnyYubx

— Just (@justinmaniluh) October 18, 2023