Ilocos norte: Public school educators in Ilocos Norte have expressed their support for the implementation of the career progression system, which they believe will provide more opportunities for career mobility, professional growth, and financial stability.
According to Philippines News Agency, Markelvin Guzman, the monitoring supervisor for the Bangui-Dumalneg District of the Department of Education (DepEd), stated that the new law acknowledges the long-standing efforts of teachers and inspires them to enhance their skills further. Guzman, who has advanced through the ranks, emphasized the importance of teachers feeling valued and secure under the Expanded Career Progression (ECP) program. He noted that the program opens more opportunities for well-deserved promotions, boosting teachers' morale and inspiring them to make a meaningful impact on learners.
Thelma Ruiz Sacsac, a Master Teacher II at Luzong National High School in Pagudpud, shared her perspective, highlighting that the career progression law will motivate teachers to perform well in pursuit of promotion. She emphasized that no teacher would remain stuck in their entry position, and the higher salary grade offers better financial stability.
Jake Abragar, a Teacher III at Calayab Elementary School, welcomed the expanded career progression system as a significant step toward advancing teachers' careers based on classroom performance. However, he expressed concern over the lack of recognition for coaching in the promotion process. Abragar dedicates time after school hours and on weekends to coaching student-athletes who excel in various sports competitions. He hopes future improvements will acknowledge coaching's role in developing learners' skills and discipline.
In Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Cherry Joy Discaya-Garma, a senior education program specialist at the Schools Division Office, emphasized the need for fairness and merit-based promotion in the implementation of the ECP. She stressed that the Human Resource unit must thoroughly study and implement guidelines to avoid bias and prevent corruption or the "position for sale" practice.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act 12288, institutionalizing the Career Progression System for Public School Teachers and School Leaders, on September 12, 2025. The law establishes a competency-based promotion system that allows elementary and secondary teachers to advance based on merit and qualifications.
