A new shockwave has broken out in the education sector as incumbent Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara has spoken out about serious shortcomings at the Department of Education (DepEd). But what has stirred up more public opinion is his mention of two powerful figures – Vice President Sara Duterte and former President Rodrigo Duterte – amid the alleged wrongdoings.

DepEd has long faced criticism over budget management, quality of education, and controversial policies. Under the leadership of Vice President Sara Duterte when she was Education Secretary, the department was criticized for large expenditures with unclear results, most notably the purchase of teaching equipment at exorbitant prices.

Secretary Angara, in a recent interview, bluntly stated that there are many problems in the DepEd apparatus. When asked about accountability, he pointed out that those who previously ran the department need to answer clearly to the public.

What has been making the rounds is Angara’s mention of both Vice President Sara Duterte and her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. Although he did not directly accuse them, his statement has many questioning whether there is any connection between the Duterte family and the scandals at DepEd.

Some believe this is a political move to reduce the influence of the Duterte family in the context of the upcoming elections. However, others believe that Angara is simply trying to clarify the responsibilities of those who previously ran DepEd.

Following Angara’s statement, the public is waiting for the reaction of Vice President Sara Duterte and former President Duterte. If there were any violations, who will take responsibility? And is this the beginning of a broader investigation into the education sector?

This scandal will certainly continue to stir up controversy and influence the Philippine political landscape. Let’s see what happens next.

VP Sara’s turnover to Sen. Angara at DepEd to be held on July 18
Vice President Sara Duterte is set to officially turn over the position of Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) to Senator Sonny Angara this coming Thursday, July 18, 2024.

Angara said this in an interview with DZBB on Sunday, July 14.

“Our turnover is on July 18 in the morning. That’s the farewell to us from the Office of Vice President and outgoing Education Secretary, Ma’am Sara Duterte,” said Angara.

“The assumption will probably be next, the next day. And we need to take the oath too,” he added. Meanwhile, Angara said that if there is an opportunity during the turnover ceremony, he will ask Duterte for advice regarding his leadership of DepEd.

“I assume there will be some sort of meeting (at the turnover ceremony). There will be a meeting and then some discussion. And if there is a chance, I will also ask for our Vice President’s advice on this based on his experience in the past two years as head or secretary of the Department of Education,” Angara said.

It will be recalled that on June 19, 2024, Duterte announced his resignation as secretary of the DepEd. On July 2, 2024, the government announced the appointment of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to Angara in the position.