By Liza Soriano

MANILA — Senate President Chiz Escudero announced on Monday (July 1, 2024) that he recommended Senator Sonny Angara to be the next Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd).

When asked about Angara’s openness to assume the role, Escudero said it was a positive development and revealed that he had recommended the senator for the position.

“I am one of the first, if not the first, to recommend him to become the DepEd Secretary, given his competence, track record, and experience in education,” Escudero said.

He added, however, that the final decision lies with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., as it is a “position of confidence.”

“That is a cabinet position, and it should be someone who enjoys the confidence and trust of the President,” the Senate President remarked.

Earlier, Angara expressed his willingness to take on the role if offered.

“I am open to the possibility if entrusted with the responsibility… It would be impossible to refuse such an opportunity,” Angara said.

(el Amigo/mnm)

By Dang Samson Garcia

SENATOR Juan Edgardo Angara sought the development of more parks, recreational facilities and open spaces for better mental health.

He cited data from the Department of Health that at least 3.6 million Filipinos are suffering from mental, neurological and substance use disorders, making mental health an issue “that cannot be ignored.”

“Putting up more parks, recreational and sports facilities and including open spaces in urban planning will go a long way in improving the physical and mental well-being of our people, particularly those who reside in highly-urbanized areas,” Angara said.

He urged the Department of Public Works and Highways to make a shift to include the development of parks and recreational facilities in its projects.

“We could expand the concept of public works to include the development of parks, esplanades and other similar projects. Admittedly space is a problem especially with the metropolitan areas but we can always be creative in how we utilize smaller spaces,” Angara said.

“The goal here is to make our people less confined and to encourage them to go out more, engage in physical activities and interact with people,” he added.

Angara said that the availability of safe and walkable streets, lanes for non-motorized transportation, sports and recreational facilities and access to culture and entertainment all help in making local government units livable.

“With a greater focus on these initiatives, we can help in addressing physical and mental health issues and provide our people with an overall better quality of life,” he said.