Manila: Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has praised the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the arrest of former Ako Bicol party-list representative Elizaldy Co, describing it as a significant move in the government's anti-corruption efforts. "It is a great victory for our country and what is important now is that we can secure justice," Gatchalian stated during an interview at the 60th Biology Teachers Association of the Philippines (BIOTA) National Convention and Scientific Sessions.
According to Philippines News Agency, Gatchalian emphasized that Co's possible return to the Philippines would be crucial in ensuring accountability and justice, pointing to alleged irregularities in his previous government dealings. The senator urged authorities to expedite the return of Co and to advance the legal proceedings against him at the Sandiganbayan. He also underscored the broader implications of corruption, noting the importance of allocating public funds towards essential services such as education and infrastructure. "That is why we really need to ensure that those who should be jailed must be jailed," Gatchalian asserted.
On a related note, Senator Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education, has proposed substantial reforms to the country's education system. His proposals include a return to a discipline-based science curriculum, restructuring Senior High School, and possibly reducing college education to three years. Gatchalian believes these reforms can address persistent issues in learning outcomes, teacher deployment, and resource allocation in basic education.
Gatchalian also revealed plans to streamline Senior High School into two primary tracks: Academic and Technical-Vocational (Tech-Voc). "Senior High School is being improved. Unlike before, where there were many strands requiring many staff, now there will only be two: Academic and Technical-Vocational," he explained. Under the Tech-Voc track, work immersion programs will be expanded to provide students with more practical training and enhance their employability upon graduation.
He stressed that education reform demands sustained investment and collaboration among stakeholders, especially in the face of rapid global changes, including advancements in artificial intelligence. Gatchalian highlighted the significant increase in the education budget in recent years as evidence of the government's dedication to bolstering the sector. "Education is our strongest tool against poverty and the key to national development. However, we cannot solve these problems overnight as it requires commitment, resources, and collaboration from everyone," he concluded.
