DepEd Sec. Angara Praises Gov. Tamayo's Education, Healthcare Programs at National Teachers’ Month Kick-Off

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara led the kick-off celebration of National Teachers’ Month at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center in Koronadal City, where teachers and DepEd officials from across Mindanao gathered to honor the invaluable contributions of educators.

In his keynote address, Secretary Angara commended Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. for championing education and healthcare reforms that continue to uplift the lives of South Cotabateños. He lauded the governor for the strict implementation of the No Collection Policy in public schools and the free college education program, both of which have expanded access to quality education in the province.

“Ako’y hangang-hanga… I was not aware, Governor, of the immense contribution of the provincial government to the educational system here in South Cotabato,” Sec. Angara said. “Kung ganito lang ang lahat ng chief executive, siguro mag-iiba po ang anyo at itsura ng educational system ng ating bansa. Thank you for opening the doors of opportunity for our young people all the way to the college level.”

The Education Secretary also praised South Cotabato’s comprehensive healthcare program, citing its strong support for learners and communities alongside the province’s education initiatives.

In a lighter moment, Angara quipped about Governor Tamayo’s alignment with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s education priorities, particularly the merit scholarship program highlighted in the President’s recent State of the Nation Address.

“Palagay ko ikaw ang adviser ni PBBM,” Angara said. “Maybe you can give him advice on how best to implement it along with the new CHED chairperson.”

For his part, Governor Tamayo paid tribute to the dedication and sacrifices of educators, calling them “mga buhay na bayani” who continue to shape the nation’s future through their service and commitment.

The kick-off program not only celebrated the role of teachers as living heroes but also underscored South Cotabato’s reputation as a model of inclusive and people-centered governance, where education and healthcare remain top priorities.