NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Sen. Cayetano Urges Swift Action To Tackle Education Crisis, Economic Challenges
Photo credit: Senate PH
In an interview before the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the House of Representatives on July 24, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano highlighted the urgency of prioritizing the education crisis in the country.
He expressed concern that if not addressed promptly, the education crisis could lead to a major national setback.
He noted that despite adding two years to the K-to-12 program, many urban areas now only have half-day classes, which could leave the nation falling behind.
Cayetano emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic had worsened the learning crisis in the country.
He said the reliance on modular learning and weak internet infrastructure hindered effective distance learning.
He warned that if the return to full-day classes is not facilitated, and the curriculum remains reduced, the Philippines could be overtaken by smaller Southeast Asian countries in terms of educational development within the next decade.
While the education crisis requires long-term solutions, Cayetano also underscored the immediate need for the government to assist millions of Filipinos with their livelihood and economic development.
He called for a methodological and targeted distribution of assistance to reach families in the grassroots, emphasizing that proper allocation of resources could significantly improve livelihood opportunities.
Amid the worldwide surge in inflation, Cayetano acknowledged the challenge of striking a balance in managing the economy.
He recognized that economic progress alone is insufficient if the cost of living continues to rise, and job opportunities with adequate income remain scarce.
He also pointed out that external factors, such as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, could further complicate the global economic situation, particularly impacting food prices and supply.
Despite the challenges, Cayetano expressed optimism about the government's efforts and the resilience of the Filipino people. He believed that despite the weight of the problems faced, there is a general sense of hopefulness that the nation can overcome these obstacles.
He expressed concern that if not addressed promptly, the education crisis could lead to a major national setback.
He noted that despite adding two years to the K-to-12 program, many urban areas now only have half-day classes, which could leave the nation falling behind.
Cayetano emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic had worsened the learning crisis in the country.
He said the reliance on modular learning and weak internet infrastructure hindered effective distance learning.
He warned that if the return to full-day classes is not facilitated, and the curriculum remains reduced, the Philippines could be overtaken by smaller Southeast Asian countries in terms of educational development within the next decade.
While the education crisis requires long-term solutions, Cayetano also underscored the immediate need for the government to assist millions of Filipinos with their livelihood and economic development.
He called for a methodological and targeted distribution of assistance to reach families in the grassroots, emphasizing that proper allocation of resources could significantly improve livelihood opportunities.
Amid the worldwide surge in inflation, Cayetano acknowledged the challenge of striking a balance in managing the economy.
He recognized that economic progress alone is insufficient if the cost of living continues to rise, and job opportunities with adequate income remain scarce.
He also pointed out that external factors, such as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, could further complicate the global economic situation, particularly impacting food prices and supply.
Despite the challenges, Cayetano expressed optimism about the government's efforts and the resilience of the Filipino people. He believed that despite the weight of the problems faced, there is a general sense of hopefulness that the nation can overcome these obstacles.
Jul 25, 2023
