Pangasinan: Educators and parents in Pangasinan have lauded the Department of Budget and Management's (DBM) approval of the hiring of 16,000 new teachers and 10,000 non-teaching personnel for the school year 2025-2026, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call to ease the administrative burden on teachers and improve education quality.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Mariel Calima, principal of Pangasinan National High School, stated that the move provides crucial support for overcrowded classrooms and overstretched educators. She emphasized the hope it brings to the education community, as it aims to improve the teacher-student ratio and enhance the quality of instruction in schools. Dr. Calima highlighted the significance of this opportunity for both aspiring educators and students seeking quality education.

Dr. Calima also expressed the importance of a fair and transparent hiring process, emphasizing the need for candidates to embody dedication and integrity in their roles. Dr. Willy Guieb of Dagupan City National High School supported this sentiment, particularly stressing the need for specialized teachers in senior high school to handle specific subjects and technical skills.

DepEd Ilocos Region administrative officer Dr. Cesar Bucsit noted that 664 of the new teaching positions would be allocated to the region. He stated that the additional workforce would enhance learning outcomes by allowing teachers to concentrate on their subject areas.

Parents in the region have expressed optimism about the initiative, anticipating better-prepared teachers and more consistent classroom instruction. Hazel Ann de Guzman from Dagupan City mentioned that the move would allow teachers more time to prepare lessons, benefiting students like her son. Melanie Episcope from Malasiqui town looked forward to uninterrupted learning, hoping there will be enough teachers to cover for absences due to illness or training.