Angara’s track record to serve him well in DepEd, Eastern Visayas leaders say

New DepEd secretary Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara —Joseph B. Vidal/Senate Social Media Unit

TACLOBAN CITY, LEYTE, Philippines —Government leaders in Eastern Visayas welcomed the appointment of Sen. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara as the next secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), saying his track record as a public servant will help him in his new position.

According to Eastern Samar Gov. Ben Evardone, Angara’s “extensive knowledge” of education-related issues makes him a fitting choice to lead DepEd, replacing Vice President Sara Duterte who resigned on June 19.

“I welcome and fully support the appointment of Sen. Sonny Angara as the new DepEd secretary. He has extensive knowledge about education. In fact, education has been his priority in terms of budgetary support, advocacies and initiatives,” Evardone said in a statement sent to the Inquirer.

READ: Angara gets DepEd post; choice widely welcomed

“I am sure that he will bring to DepEd his wealth of expertise, experience and knowledge. I hope that all stakeholders in the education sector will rally [behind] and support Secretary Angara,” he added.

Leyte Board Member Carlo Loreto shared the same sentiments, calling Angara’s appointment by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. a “wise decision.”

“Senator Sonny Angara’s appointment as education secretary is a decision that resonates with wisdom and foresight. His track record as a dedicated public servant, coupled with his extensive efforts in improving educational infrastructure and responding effectively to crises, make him an ideal candidate for this significant position,” he said.

School, gym construction

Loreto, a former vice governor of Leyte, cited Angara’s help in funding the construction of several school buildings and gymnasiums across the province.

“With his new role as education secretary, Senator Angara is poised to revitalize DepEd and propel the educational system toward greater heights,” he said.

Rep. Marcelino Libanan of the 4Ps party-list group described Angara as “brilliant,” citing his personal engagement with the senator, then an Aurora representative during the 11th Congress.

While Angara’s background as a politician might be seen by others as a setback, the incoming education secretary is known for his dedication to public service, said Libanan, a former Eastern Samar representative.

“What is important is that he has the heart and mind to serve. At any rate, the DepEd secretary is an alter ego of the President who is a politician,” he said.

The DepEd regional office in Eastern Visayas also welcomed Angara’s appointment.

“The DepEd community looks forward to working with the new leadership as we continue our relentless pursuit toward improving the quality of basic education in the country,” Jazmin Calzita, DepEd regional information officer, said in a statement. —Joey Gabieta