A bold and welcome announcement has been made by the new leadership of the Department of Education (DepEd) in Catanduanes: they will not tolerate the “palakasan” (patronage) and “lagayan” (bribery) systems within the agency. In the midst of the challenges facing the education sector, this stance is not just a simple announcement, but a powerful declaration of change. It provides light and hope to teachers, staff, and even parents who have long awaited honest and clean governance.
“Palakasan” and “lagayan” are ills that have long existed in the government, and the education sector is not immune. These terms refer to obtaining favors, positions, or funds based on personal connections or bribes, rather than on competence and merit. In the context of DepEd, this means unfair decisions in the hiring or promotion of teachers, the selection of suppliers for projects, and the assignment of teachers to schools.
This statement is timely, especially at a point when the foundation of our education needs to be strong. Improving the quality of teaching and learning will be impossible if the system itself is riddled with corruption and favoritism. Ending these practices is the first step to restoring public trust in the agency and to showing that DepEd is truly focused on the welfare of students, not on personal interests.
For teachers and staff, this firm stand is a morale booster. In a system based on merit, they will have a sense of security and be more motivated in their work. They will no longer have to worry if their hard work and sacrifices will be noticed and justly rewarded. Instead of seeking a “backer” or paying for favors, their time and energy can be devoted to a more important matter—becoming better teachers.
Ultimately, the biggest beneficiaries of this change are the students. When teachers are hired based on their competence and dedication, and not on their connections, the quality of instruction will naturally improve. Every classroom will become a place where talent, skill, and perseverance prevail. The children of Catanduanes will have a better chance of receiving quality education, which will be the key to their bright future.
However, ending “palakasan” and “lagayan” does not stop with a statement alone. It requires determination, a firm resolve, and collective action. The challenge is not only on the leadership, but on everyone—from the highest officials down to the teachers and staff. Support and unity are needed to fulfill the mission of cleaning up the system.
The bold statement of the DepEd chief is a promise for the future of Catanduanes. It is a promise of a more transparent, fair, and efficient education system. It is a reminder that in building a better future, integrity and merit are far more important than influence or money. This is the change that has long been awaited, and it is now in our hands to sustain and support it.
Congratulations to the newly promoted full fledge Division Superintident Dr. Ma. Jeany Tutanes Abayon. | FB EYE | Ferdie Brizo | Bicol Peryodiko
