THE TEACHERS’ Dignity Coalition said it expected President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. to fulfill the promises made to the education sector during the campaign period.

“Any new administration signals a new beginning and therefore hope for all of us. But beyond hoping, our teachers will actively push for education reforms and will engage the Marcos administration,” Benjo Basas, the group’s national chairperson, said.

TDC said Marcos already tackled some of the issues during his campaign.

“During the campaign sorties and debates, President Marcos mentioned the raise in teachers’ salaries and other forms of support to our teachers and their families. He even committed to ensuring that teachers would focus more on teaching and will be liberated from administrative tasks. Recently, he ordered a review of the K-12 program. All of these three items are included in our proposal,” Basas added.

The group’s 13 proposals and general reforms aim to enhance the welfare of teachers and the quality of learning for children.

The TDC pushed for a better compensation package for teachers and educators in public and private institutions, the implementation of the 1966 vintage Magna Carta for Public School Teachers, compensation for those affected by Covid19, free post-graduate education, provision of free laptop computers and internet services, and the creation of a separate insurance system and hospital for teachers, among other benefits.

It also sought programs for children’s welfare such as the reduction of class size, provision of learning materials and facilities and sufficient funding for the safe return to normal school operations.

Aside from the welfare of teachers and learners, the TDC also bats for a change in curriculum and will pursue an education system that will inculcate patriotism, promotes peace, respect for human rights and will value history and culture.

The TDC hopes that Marcos as well as Education Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio will respond positively to the group’s proposals.

The group added that it is willing to sit for a meeting with Marcos if given an opportunity.