Gov't opens 16,000 new teaching posts

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman has approved the creation of 16,000 new teaching positions in public schools for 2025 to 2026, with a total budget of P4.19 billion, to strengthen the education sector and ensure sufficient manpower.

- By DERCO ROSAL

The 16,000 new teaching positions form the first tranche of the 20,000 positions targeted for creation this year.

Pangandaman said the DBM approved new teaching positions in line with the president's directive to improve the country's education system.

The approved positions include 15,343 Teacher I posts with Salary Grade 11, 157 Special Science Teachers with Salary Grade 13, and 500 Special Education (SPED) Teachers with Salary Grade 14.

Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the move will address classroom shortages, reduce teachers' workload, and improve the quality of instruction in public schools. It is part of the administration's broader push to strengthen the country's education system and ensure that teachers can focus more on individual students.

"The President wants every student to receive enough attention from their teacher to improve their training and learning," she said.

The Palace press officer added that the move reflects President Marcos' commitment to improving foundational education, similar to how he immediately acted on the recommendation of current Education Secretary Sonny Angara to fast-track the release of funds for child development centers.