Poll bets told: Prioritize education in midterm elections

Advocacy group Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) prompted midterm election candidates to disclose their plans to address the learning crisis and make education a top priority in their agenda.

In a statement on February 15, PBEd Executive Director Justine Raagas said candidates must be vocal and proactive about their education platforms to address the systemic failures plaguing the Philippine education system, which remains in deep crisis.

“As we work toward solutions, future leaders should present concrete plans to improve conditions for all education stakeholders, including teachers, students, parents, local governments, the private sector, and civil society organizations,” Raagas added.

PBEd reminded that candidates have only until May 10 to lay their platforms and plans for their constituencies.

“Our public servants must realize that education is an investment. Every peso spent on improving literacy helps create a more skilled workforce, while greater commitment to education opens doors to better economic opportunities for the next generation,” Raagas said.

PBEd cited the recently released Year Two Report from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), which emphasized the “deep-seated educational challenges” in the Philippines.

EDCOM II drew the report from 97 research studies and insights from 45 consultations, school visits, and public hearings in 2024.

PBEd stressed that while economic and political strategies are crucial, “long-term and sustainable progress for the Filipino people hinges on concrete education reforms.”

The group also urged lawmakers, local chief executives, and electoral candidates to prioritize the education sector reform in the upcoming midterm elections on May 12.

“This is also the time for Filipinos to consciously evaluate candidates. We should choose a leader who champions education—someone who can rebuild an education system worthy of our nation’s potential,” Raagas said.

The official 90-day campaign period for senatorial and party-list candidates began on February 11.

Meanwhile, the 45-day campaign period for local candidates, including those running for the House of Representatives, will start on March 28.