CEAP urges gov't to match infrastructure gains with education reforms after SONA

The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) on Friday called on the government to give education the same urgency and focus as infrastructure, governance, and economic recovery following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA).

In a statement titled “Seeing Our Nation Anew,” CEAP said the country’s progress should not be measured by economic gains alone but also by the quality of its institutions, public service, and education.

While acknowledging what it described as the government’s efforts to pursue accountability in public works, protect overseas Filipino workers, strengthen food security, improve disaster preparedness, and cushion Filipinos from economic uncertainty, the group said education deserves equal attention.

“We therefore hope that the same clarity of purpose brought to infrastructure, governance, and economic recovery finds equal expression in the work of education,”

The group called on the Department of Education, the Commission on Higher Education, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Congress, educational institutions, families, and other stakeholders to restore learning with urgency, uphold the dignity of teachers, promote integrity in public life, and develop learners capable of critical thinking, compassion, and responsible leadership. It added that “the country’s greatest investment remains the Filipino people.”

CEAP also said the country’s future is shaped through education, where “truth is taught without compromise,” conscience is formed, and young people learn that love of country is measured by sacrifice rather than personal ambition.

The association said the nation should strive not only for progress reflected in achievements but also in the character and humanity it fosters. —Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA News