Manila: An additional 113 teachers from the Schools Division Office (SDO)-Negros Occidental have pledged their continued dedication to their profession following their reclassification and promotion under the Department of Education's (DepEd) Expanded Career Progression (ECP) System. The ceremony, held at the division office, saw Schools Division Superintendent Gladys Amylaine Sales administering the oath of these newly promoted educators, who have now advanced to Teacher IV and Teacher III positions.

According to Philippines News Agency, Superintendent Sales highlighted the mission-driven nature of teaching in her address, expressing gratitude to Education Secretary Sonny Angara and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for their efforts in implementing the ECP initiative. This initiative is designed to offer teachers enhanced opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. Sales stressed the importance of focusing on senior teachers to ensure they receive promotions before retirement, emphasizing that career advancement entails a greater responsibility to serve learners, schools, and communities with integrity and commitment.

The SDO-Negros Occidental has already seen an initial batch of 327 teachers approved for reclassification and promotion under the ECP System. The first group of 100 Negrense public school teachers recommitted to their service during an oathtaking ceremony on July 27. The remaining 114 promoted teachers will soon undergo their own oathtaking ceremony.

The ECP System for Teachers and School Heads is implemented under Executive Order 174, series of 2022, which establishes the Expanded Career Progression System for Public School Teachers. This system, along with its Implementing Rules and Regulations, aims to enhance professional development and establish clearer pathways for career advancement for teachers and school heads, based on established qualifications and professional standards.