The Teacher’s Dignity Coalition (TDC) has admitted that it is saddened that another politician, rather than an educator, would take over the reigns of the Department of Education (DepEd).

“If it is related to education, educators or teachers should be prioritized. We hope that in the future, there will be guidelines on selecting our DepEd Secretary," Benjo Basas, TDC National Chairperson, said.

Earlier, the group urged President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to appoint a non-political figure to avoid political conflicts within the department.

But Marcos appointed Senator Sonny Angara to replace Vice President Sara Duterte as DepEd chief. 

Despite its disappointment, TDC said it will give full support to the new secretary. They challenged Angara to focus on creating laws that support and recognize teachers. 

"Dahil siya mismo ay nakaupo sa senado, may mga panukala siya na batas tungkol sa mga kapakanan ng mga guro. Inaasahan namin na bibigyan niya ng aksyon," Basas said.

Some teachers expressed their satisfaction with having a new leader in the cabinet.

"Siya ang nangangalap ng mga pangangailangan ng mga teachers, mga learners, at siya ang kailangang mag-decide kung ano ang maganda sa guro at estudyante," Mary Joy Falceso, a Grade 10 teacher, said.

"Natutuwa po ako at meron na po ulit leader na magtataguyod at magpapa-taguyod sa aming mga guro, lalo't higit sa DepEd... siya 'yung magiging gabay sa amin," Joemark Ebora, a Grade 9 teacher, added.

Duterte’s resignation from DepEd will take effect July 19, 2024.