VICE President-elect Sara Duterte-Carpio vowed to focus on the welfare of personnel when she assumes her post as secretary of the Department of Education.

She voiced concern on the situation of teachers, especially those who were forced to turn to loan sharks.

“That is the sad reality for our teachers. I saw it when I was the mayor of Davao City,” Duterte-Carpio said.

She recalled how a teacher from outside Davao City sought her assistance regarding her loan.

She expressed her sadness after learning that the teacher only received a monthly salary of P1,000 because a large percentage of her income was used to pay off her debts.

“They were enticed by companies who offered them loans. They were paying big interest rates,” Duterte-Carpio said.

The incoming education chief said that she will improve the welfare of DepEd personnel.

“I am soliciting your support that we may come up with something concrete to improve the welfare of the teaching and non-teaching staff of the DepEd, and see a better country with learners that are disciplined and patriotic,” she said.