Nearly 11,000 public school teachers in the Bicol Region have been promoted to higher positions under the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Expanded Career Progression (ECP) program, a move seen to boost morale and improve teaching quality across the region.

During the 1st quarter regional press conference, Teachers Credentials Evaluator II, Rosary Ann Gimenez, reported that 10,844 teaching positions were reclassified across the 13 school divisions in 2025.

The ECP, institutionalized through various national issuances, provides clearer career pathways for teachers and ensures that no public school teacher retires at the entry-level position.

DepEd 5 (Bicol) Director Gilbert Sadsad thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for the government’s support, noting that the program has brought immediate benefits to teachers.

“Many teachers were happy because their positions were raised, and their salaries are expected to increase, too. We are grateful to the President for approving and providing funds for this ECP program for our teachers,” Sadsad said.

He said the promotion of more than 10,000 teachers in Bicol alone is a “big number” that would significantly impact their professional growth.

“It is expected that the nearly 11,000 teachers who were promoted will feel more inspired and motivated to improve their teaching. No teacher should retire as a Teacher I only. Through the ECP, most teachers have already moved up in position,” he said.

For 2026, at least 11,451 reclassification requests have been submitted, indicating sustained demand and strong participation among educators.

Merlie Barba, a teacher from Pangilao, San Miguel, Catanduanes, said the promotion provided a great opportunity in her career and financial stability.

“I am promoted three steps higher than my previous position, and also the salary is higher, a great help in our daily living expenses,” she said.

Barba, who also teaches learners with special needs, added that the promotion and higher salary are a reward for their hard work.

“Thank you, Mr. President, for ensuring and prioritizing the welfare and needs of school teachers,” she added.

Early registration for SY 2026-2027

Andrew Raguero, DepEd-5 Education Program Specialist II, said there was a significant increase in early registration for School Year 2026-2027, which reached 302,970 learners in the region as of March 19.

Of the total, 151,328 are male learners, and 151,642 are female, covering Kindergarten and Grades 1, 7, and 11.

Sadsad attributed the increase to strengthened coordination among education stakeholders.

“The implication of this is that our campaign has become more active. Not only the school division offices, but also the schools are coordinating with local government units (LGUs) and barangays, including those in far-flung areas, to encourage parents to register their children early,” he added.

With both the ECP gains and increased learner registration, DepEd-5 expressed optimism for a motivated teaching workforce and a more prepared student population in the coming school year. (PNA)