Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday lauded the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the arrest of former Ako Bicol party-list representative Elizaldy Co, calling it a significant step in the government’s anti-corruption drive.
“It is a great victory for our country and what is important now is that we can secure justice,” he said during an interview on the sidelines of the 60th Biology Teachers Association of the Philippines (BIOTA) National Convention and Scientific Sessions here.
Gatchalian said Co’s possible return to the country would help ensure accountability and justice, citing alleged irregularities in his government transactions.
The senator asked authorities to expedite Co’s return and proceed with the cases filed against him before the Sandiganbayan.
The senator also highlighted the broader impact of corruption, stressing that public funds should be used for essential services such as education and infrastructure.
“That is why we really need to ensure that those who should be jailed must be jailed,” he said.
Discipline-Based Science Curriculum
Meanwhile, Gatchalian, chair of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, proposed sweeping reforms to the country’s education system, including a return to a discipline-based science curriculum, a restructuring of Senior High School, and a possible reduction of college education to three years.
He said reforms can address long-standing issues in learning outcomes, teacher deployment and resource gaps in basic education.
The senator also announced plans to simplify Senior High School into two main tracks: Academic and Technical-Vocational (Tech-Voc).
“Senior High School is being improved. Unlike before, where there were many strands requiring many staff, now there will only be two: Academic and Technical-Vocational,” Gatchalian said.
Under the Tech-Voc track, work immersion programs will be extended to provide students with more practical training and improve their employability upon graduation.
Sustained Reforms
He emphasized that education reform requires sustained investment and collaboration among stakeholders amid rapid global change, including advances in artificial intelligence.
He noted that the education budget has risen significantly in recent years, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening the sector.
“Education is our strongest tool against poverty and the key to national development. However, we cannot solve these problems overnight as it requires commitment, resources and collaboration from everyone,” he said. (PNA)