418 Talisay City Teachers Advance in Rank Through DepEd's Expanded Career Progression Program
On Friday, March 13, 2026, a significant milestone was achieved in Talisay City as 418 public school teachers received promotions under the Department of Education's Expanded Career Progression (ECP) program. This initiative allows educators to climb the career ladder and increase their salaries while continuing their vital classroom instruction duties.
Ceremonial Induction Led by Education Secretary
Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara presided over the ceremonial induction and oath-taking event held at Talisay City National High School in Barangay Poblacion. In his address, Angara emphasized that the ECP program provides a clearer and more accessible career pathway for teachers, with the primary goal of retaining seasoned educators within the school system. He highlighted that this reform is part of a broader effort to enhance the teaching profession across the country.
Background and Implementation of the ECP System
The ECP system was introduced through Executive Order 174 to streamline promotion processes and address long-standing concerns about limited advancement opportunities in teaching. It replaces the old ERF promotion scheme with new positions, such as Teacher IV to VII and Master Teacher V, enabling teachers to progress without transitioning to administrative roles. This rollout in DepEd Region 7 marks a key step in implementing these reforms nationwide.
Personal Story of a Promoted Teacher
Among the promoted educators was Daisy Dela Serna, a 56-year-old Filipino teacher at Lawaan National High School who began her teaching career in 1995. She advanced from Teacher I to Teacher III and currently instructs Grade 9 and Grade 10 classes. Dela Serna described the promotion process as challenging, involving multiple stages like computerized evaluations, online interviews, and demonstration teaching. She stated, "The requirements were difficult... but I pushed myself to do it even if it was hard. It took many years, but now I feel proud of what I have achieved as a teacher."
Salary Increases and Regional Impact
Under the 2025 public school salary rates, Teacher III corresponds to Salary Grade 13 with a monthly pay of P34,421, compared to Teacher I at Salary Grade 11 with P30,024. Across Central Visayas, a total of 762 teachers were promoted under the ECP system, ranging from Teacher II to Teacher VI and Master Teacher II to Master Teacher III, demonstrating the program's widespread effect.
Future Reforms and Departmental Goals
Angara revealed that the department is exploring ways to automate promotions once teachers meet the necessary qualifications, further simplifying the process. Additionally, reforms are being implemented to reduce teachers' administrative paperwork, allowing them to concentrate more on classroom instruction and student engagement. These efforts aim to create a more supportive and efficient environment for educators, fostering long-term retention and professional growth.
