SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian presided over a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act, underscoring the need to strengthen teachers’ capabilities to improve learning outcomes among Filipino students.

During the hearing, Gatchalian emphasized that ensuring the entry of highly qualified teachers into the profession is critical to raising the overall quality of education in the country.

He described the proposed measure as a vital safeguard for the teaching profession.

“This is the teacher professionalization bill. I call this the gatekeeper for all teachers who want to join the workforce,” Gatchalian said. “It regulates the teaching profession and provides the gatekeeping mechanism to ensure that highly qualified teachers join the teaching workforce as professional teachers.”

The senator explained that the proposed amendments aim to refine standards for teacher qualification, professional regulation, and continuous development, ensuring that only competent and well-prepared educators are allowed to practice in classrooms nationwide.

Gatchalian also invited resource persons and stakeholders attending the hearing to actively contribute their views and recommendations to further improve the proposed legislation.

He stressed the importance of collaborative input in crafting reforms that respond to the evolving needs of the education sector.

By strengthening the Teachers Professionalization Act, Gatchalian said the Senate hopes to build a stronger and more competent teaching workforce.