The Department of Education (DepEd)-Teacher Education Council (TEC) on Wednesday partnered with the Commission on Higher Education’s Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education for the launching of the PHP103.32-million Teacher Education Scholarship Program (TESP).

The two parties signed the memorandum of agreement at the Professional Regulation Commission-NCR Office shortly after the 2026 First Council Meeting.

In a statement, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara said the financial assistance will support 720 aspiring teachers nationwide to complete their degrees, earn licenses and serve in classrooms where they are needed most.

“President Bongbong Marcos has repeatedly emphasized that education is the foundation of national development. This scholarship program turns that vision into action by investing in the people who will shape the next generation of Filipinos,” Angara said.

For her part, CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis said the partnership will help address gaps in the education sector.

“We cannot fix the gaps in our education system without supporting the people who hold it together — our teachers,” she said in a separate statement.

“This is a deliberate effort to bring top talent into the teaching profession and ensure that our schools have the skilled educators our students deserve.”

Under the pilot implementation, the program will provide financial support to students under three specialization degrees: Early Childhood Education, Values Education and Special Needs Education.

These areas were identified as requiring additional support to ensure that learners receive age-appropriate, values-centered and inclusive education.

The TESP is a flagship initiative of the TEC under Republic Act 11713, or the Excellence in Teacher Education Act of 2022.

The law aims to strengthen teacher preparation and raise standards across the profession. (PNA)