EDUCATION Secretary Sonny Angara has emphasized the essential role of teachers as key drivers of human capital development.

Angara noted that teachers are more than just educators — they are catalysts for sustainable economic growth.

“We often hear the phrase, ‘Teacher lang,’ pero sa DepEd, sinasabi namin, ‘Teacher sila.’ They are our human capital developers, shaping the future workforce and driving national progress,” Angara said in his address at the 50th Philippine Business Conference and Expo.

“Ang mga guro ay ang puso ng ating edukasyon,” he added, recalling his recent visit to Pag-Asa Integrated School in Pag-Asa Island.

Angara also outlined DepEd’s key initiatives to improve teachers’ working conditions, in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directives. He highlighted ongoing projects to build more classrooms and provide digital tools, such as laptops, to learners to address gaps in educational infrastructure.

“The Philippines is on the brink of great opportunities. But we can only seize them if we act decisively, craft responsive policies, and allocate resources efficiently,” Angara said.