MANILA, (PIA) — Senator Win Gatchalian has filed a bill aimed at amending the Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act of 1994, seeking to enhance teaching quality and adapt the education system to modern technological advancements.
Senate Bill No. 2840 introduces alternative pathways for individuals aspiring to become professional teachers.
Currently, applicants must pass a licensure examination, Gatchalian’s proposal would allow candidates to submit a portfolio demonstrating their competencies and professional teaching standards as an alternative means of qualification.
“The end goal here is to create highly qualified and professional teachers that will enter our education system,” Gatchalian said. “With these highly qualified teachers, we would also hope to see improved learner outcomes. At the end of the day, we are doing this because we want our learners to improve.”
The senator emphasized the necessity of amending the existing law to address the evolving landscape of teaching, stating, “Teaching evolves, pedagogy evolves, and systems and procedures evolve. We must continuously review laws governing different professions — in this case, the teaching profession — and assess whether they remain attuned to the changing times.”
Under the proposed legislation, graduates from accredited teacher education institutions with a consistent pass rate of at least 80% over the last five years can submit a portfolio to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to demonstrate their qualifications.
The PRC will provide criteria for the professional standards and evaluate the portfolios to ensure that only competent applicants receive certification.
Additionally, a provision allows for registration without examination for applicants with at least 10 years of teaching experience prior to the bill’s enactment.
These individuals can submit a teaching experience portfolio for evaluation, with a requirement to apply for registration and a professional identification card within three years of the law’s effectivity.
Gatchalian’s initiative aims to expand the pool of skilled teachers, particularly in critical subject areas, ultimately striving for improved educational outcomes across the country. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
