In a significant move aimed at enhancing the quality of education in the Philippines, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law Republic Act 11997, also known as the “Kabalikat Sa Pagtuturo Act,” during a ceremonial event at Malacañang Palace on Monday, June 3. The event was attended by key political figures, including Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr., Senate President Francis Escudero, House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, House Deputy Speaker Dong Gonzales, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino, and House Majority Leader Manuel Dalipe, along with other members of the Senate and House of Representatives.
The “Kabalikat Sa Pagtuturo Act” aims to strengthen the educational system by providing additional support and resources to educators across the country. The legislation includes provisions for increased salaries, enhanced training programs, and improved teaching materials. It seeks to address the long-standing challenges faced by teachers, such as inadequate compensation, insufficient professional development opportunities, and a lack of access to modern educational tools.
In his speech, President Marcos Jr. emphasized the crucial role of educators in nation-building and the importance of providing them with the necessary support to perform their duties effectively. “Our teachers are the backbone of our educational system. They shape the minds of our future leaders and professionals. We mustPresident Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Signs Republic Act 11997, “Kabalikat Sa Pagtuturo Act” to ensure that they are well-equipped, well-compensated, and well-respected,” the President stated.
Senate President Francis Escudero lauded the passage of the law, highlighting the collaborative effort between the executive and legislative branches. “This law is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together for a common goal. Our teachers deserve nothing less than our full support and recognition for their hard work and dedication,” Escudero remarked.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez echoed these sentiments, expressing his optimism that the new law will lead to significant improvements in the country’s education system. “With the Kabalikat Sa Pagtuturo Act, we are paving the way for a brighter future for our students and a more rewarding career for our educators. This is a step in the right direction for our nation,” Romualdez said.
The ceremonial signing was marked by a sense of unity and commitment to the betterment of the education sector. The presence of key officials from both the Senate and the House of Representatives underscored the broad support for the initiative.
As the nation moves forward with the implementation of the “Kabalikat Sa Pagtuturo Act,” educators and stakeholders in the education sector are hopeful that this legislative milestone will bring about much-needed reforms and advancements in Philippine education.