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Politics in the Philippines is rarely quiet, but the latest exchange between Malacañang and Vice President Sara Duterte has stirred even more noise. The Palace accused her of running the Department of Education (DepEd) for personal interests, sparking a heated back-and-forth that blends governance, education, and political rivalry.
What Sparked the Controversy?
The tension began when Duterte criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s leadership, suggesting his directives were unclear. In response, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro fired back, saying Duterte’s actions as DepEd secretary were guided more by self-interest than by national priorities.
Among the issues raised:
“Ghost students” allegedly appearing in DepEd records.
Spoiled or moldy meals distributed in a school feeding program.
A leadership style that, according to the Palace, often went against the President’s directives.
Castro argued that true leadership requires listening and aligning with broader goals, not pursuing independent strategies for personal gain.
Did You Know?
The Department of Education is the largest government agency in the Philippines, serving more than 27 million students. With such a massive reach, even small lapses in policy or program delivery can ripple across the entire nation.
Confidence and Integrity
The clash didn’t stop at education. Duterte also questioned why President Marcos expressed confidence that he would not be implicated in flood control project anomalies, calling it premature.
The Palace countered that Marcos’ confidence comes from integrity — a pointed contrast to their claim that Duterte’s leadership was self-serving.
A Look at Duterte’s DepEd Legacy
Duterte’s time at DepEd was short but eventful:
She described the education system as outdated, sparking debate among lawmakers.
Her resignation in 2024 was linked to “personal and work issues” with the President.
Despite controversies, she maintained strong political influence, often framing education as part of a larger governance struggle.
Common Questions
Q: Why does this matter to ordinary Filipinos?
A: Education is a daily reality for millions of families. When politics disrupts schools, it affects classrooms, teachers, and students directly.
Q: Could this impact future elections?
A: Political clashes like this often shape alliances and public perception, so it’s likely to play a role in the coming years.
My Take
As someone who cares about education, I find it frustrating when classrooms become battlegrounds for political disputes. Feeding programs, textbooks, and student records may sound like small details, but they reveal whether leaders are truly prioritizing children or just playing politics. It’s a reminder that education is never just about schools — it’s about trust.
What It Means Going Forward
The Palace’s claim that VP Sara Duterte ran DepEd for personal interests has added another layer to the ongoing tension between her and President Marcos. Whether these allegations hold up or not, the controversy highlights how education and politics are deeply intertwined in the Philippines.
Do you think education leaders can ever stay fully apolitical, or is politics always going to be part of the classroom?