SENATOR Alan Peter Cayetano suggested the inclusion of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) in the proposed creation of a new Cabinet Cluster focused on education.

Cayetano, serving as co-chairperson of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), and other commissioners submitted the proposal to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on June 27, 2024.

This move aims to address the persistent learning crisis in the country by ensuring “strong coordination among key departments and agencies involved in education and workforce development.”

Established by Republic Act 11899 in July 2022, EDCOM II is mandated to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the Philippine education system and propose transformative policies to address ongoing challenges in education and the labor market.

The proposal underscores the need for a dedicated Cabinet Cluster to urgently tackle the learning crisis and formulate a cohesive national education and workforce development plan.

Cayetano, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education, emphasized the importance of DOLE and DBM’s inclusion in ensuring sustained operational funding and alignment with workforce development goals.

Drawing from historical precedent, EDCOM II referenced the 1991 EDCOM report, which led to significant reforms including the establishment of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The current proposal aims to build upon these past efforts by promoting coordinated planning, monitoring educational outcomes, aligning teacher education, and meeting the evolving needs of the job market.

Dedicated to bringing about meaningful change in the Philippine education system, Cayetano and EDCOM II are hopeful that the proposal garners the necessary SUPPORT.