DepEd officials resign ahead of Angara's takeover

Five high-ranking Department of Education (DepEd) officials, including Undersecretary Michael Poa, submitted their resignation letters to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., effective July 19, to give incoming Education Secretary Senator Sonny Angara a free hand in selecting his team.

The resigning officials are Undersecretary Michael Poa, Undersecretary for Administration Nolasco Mempin, Assistant Secretary Sunshine Fajarda, Assistant Secretary for Procurement Reynold Munsayac, and Assistant Secretary for Administration Noel Baluyan.

Vice President and outgoing Education Secretary Sara Duterte ordered all DepEd officials to stay in their posts until the new chief arrives.

However, Duterte confirmed that some officials have already decided to leave, with two transferring to the Office of the Vice President.

Angara confirmed he respects the decision of the officials who tendered their courtesy resignations.

The DepEd is set to conduct a turnover ceremony on Thursday, July 18, with Vice President and outgoing Education Secretary Sara Duterte confirmed to attend.

Following the resignations, the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines urged Angara to carefully consider his appointments, advising against individuals who lack the necessary background and commitment to education.