DEPARTMENT of Education Secretary Sonny Angara expressed his gratitude to the millions of Filipinos who voted in the May 2025 midterm elections, urging the public to bring the same civic spirit to strengthening the country’s education system.

“We are grateful to every Filipino who exercised their right to vote. Democracy thrives when people remain engaged, especially in causes that shape our future—like education,” Angara said.

Citing data from the Commission on Elections and the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, Angara noted that around 80 percent of the country’s 68 million registered voters participated in the polls—a strong signal of public commitment to democratic governance.

He echoed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s post-election message, calling the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections a “renewal of our democracy” and a call to confront urgent national concerns.

“As President Marcos said, our democracy has renewed itself. Now, we must channel that same commitment into the long-term work ahead—ensuring that every Filipino child has access to quality learning aligned with our Bagong Pilipinas vision,” Angara said.

He stressed that education must be a top priority as newly elected leaders assume office.

“We now have new senators, governors, and mayors—some seasoned, some young and hungry—all stepping into the ring of public service. They carry the hopes of our people. But hope alone is not enough,” Angara’s message read, delivered by Usec. Ron Mendoza during the national data dissemination forum for the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey.

“Leadership needs clarity. As new mandates begin, may we ensure that the data we provide guides them. For the hands of newly elected leaders, every percentage point becomes a budget line, a classroom, a reading corner—a chance at a better life.”

The DepEd chief also commended the more than 600,000 teachers and personnel who served as poll workers, ensuring the smooth conduct of elections in schools nationwide.

“Our teachers once again proved to be the frontliners of democracy. Their professionalism, calm under pressure, and deep sense of service are examples we can all learn from,” he said.

Angara called on all Filipinos to take an active role in uplifting the education sector.

“The midterm elections may be over, but the real work of nation-building continues. We encourage everyone to be an education champion,” he added.