What is DepEd? A Comprehensive Overview to Department of Education

What is DepEd

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What is Deped

DepEd, or the Department of Education, is the Philippine government agency responsible for overseeing the country’s basic education system, ensuring access to quality education for all Filipino learners.

In this comprehensive overview, we’ll unravel the story behind DepEd—what it does, why it matters, and how it shapes the learning journey for millions of students across the country. 

Get ready to explore the heart of education in the Philippines, as we break down DepEd’s role and functions. 

This is your guide to understanding the essential agency that works tirelessly to ensure every Filipino has access to quality education. 

Let’s dive into the basics and discover the significance of DepEd in our educational landscape.

History and Founding of DepEd

Let’s look back at how education in the Philippines has evolved. 

We’ll go from simple tribal teachings to organized systems under different rulers, all with the Department of Education (DepEd) at the center. 

Get ready for a quick trip through its main points and how it started.

Before the Spanish Came – Learning in Simple Ways:

  • Long ago, before the Spanish explorers came, education was informal and happened at home or in tribal areas.
  • Parents and tribal tutors focused more on teaching practical skills rather than formal academics.

Spanish Rule – Changes in Education:

  • When the Spanish took over, things changed a lot. The tribal tutors were replaced by Spanish Missionaries, and education became more about religion.
  • At first, only the elite got an education, but later, more kids could go to school thanks to the Educational Decree of 1863.

American Influence – Schools for Everyone:

  • After the Americans defeated the Spanish, they opened schools that had been closed during the war. They even made elementary education free and compulsory with Act No. 74 in 1901.
  • American teachers called Thomasites arrived, shaping a new, centralized public school system.

World War II – Different Rules, Different Subjects:

  • During World War II, when the Japanese took over, they changed what students learned. Subjects like Tagalog, Philippine History, and Character Education were reserved for Filipinos.
  • The Department of Instruction got a new name as part of the Department of Public Instruction.

After the War – Changing Names and Roles:

  • In 1947, the Department of Instruction became the Department of Education by Executive Order No. 94.
  • Over the years, the department went through more changes, and in 1987, it became the Department of Education, Culture and Sports.

1980s and Beyond – Focusing on Basic Education:

  • In 1982, the Education Act created the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports, which later became the Department of Education, Culture and Sports in 1987.
  • A significant shift happened in 1994, with a focus on basic education and the creation of CHED and TESDA for higher and technical-vocational education.

21st Century – Enter DepEd:

  • Fast forward to August 2001, and Republic Act 9155 transformed DECS into the Department of Education, or DepEd.
  • RA 9155 aimed to empower school heads and promote school-based management, aiming to equip students with skills, knowledge, and values for a well-rounded life.

So, as we journey through history, we see how education in the Philippines has evolved, with DepEd playing a crucial role in shaping a future generation of informed and empowered citizens.

Mission, Vision & Mandate

DepEd’s Vision – A Dream for Filipinos:

Imagine a Philippines where its people love their country deeply and possess the values and skills to reach their full potential, actively contributing to nation-building. 

This is the dream of the Department of Education (DepEd). As a learner-centered institution, DepEd continually works to improve itself, ensuring better service to its stakeholders.

DepEd’s Mission – Ensuring Quality Education for Every Filipino:

DepEd is on a mission to protect and promote the right of every Filipino to a quality, equitable, culture-based, and complete basic education. 

In this mission:

  • Students learn in a child-friendly, gender-sensitive, safe, and motivating environment.
  • Teachers play a crucial role in facilitating learning and nurturing every learner.
  • Administrators and staff act as stewards, creating an enabling and supportive environment for effective learning.
  • Families, communities, and other stakeholders actively engage, sharing responsibility for developing life-long learners.

Core Values Guiding DepEd:

DepEd is guided by four core values that shape its actions and decisions:

  • Maka-Diyos (God-Centered)
  • Maka-tao (People-Centered)
  • Makakalikasan (Environment-Centered)
  • Makabansa (Nation-Centered)

DepEd’s Mandate – From History to Present:

The Department of Education traces its roots back to the Education Decree of 1863, evolving through reorganization efforts to adapt to changing administrations and charters. 

Today, its mandate is established by Republic Act 9155, known as the Governance of Basic Education Act of 2001.

The core responsibilities of DepEd include formulating, implementing, and coordinating policies, plans, programs, and projects in formal and non-formal basic education. 

DepEd oversees all elementary and secondary education institutions, both public and private, including alternative learning systems. 

DepEd is committed to establishing and maintaining a complete, adequate, and integrated system of basic education that aligns with the goals of national development.

In essence, DepEd’s mission, vision, values, and mandate work together to create a dynamic and inclusive educational landscape, ensuring that every Filipino has the opportunity to receive quality education, fostering a brighter future for the nation.

Officers

Secretary

  • Hon. Sara Z. Duterte

Undersecretaries

  • Atty. Michael Wesley T. Poa
  • Nolasco A. Mempin
  • Gina O. Gonong
  • Annalyn M. Sevilla
  • Gloria-Jumamil Mercado
  • Atty. Omar Alexander V. Romero
  • Atty. Revsee A. Escobedo
  • Atty. Gerard L. Chan CESO I
  • Epimaco D. Densing III

Assistant Secretaries

  • Atty. Sunshine Charry A. Fajarda
  • Noel T. Baluyan
  • G.H.  S. Ambat
  • Alma Ruby C. Torio
  • Francis Cesar B. Bringas
  • Dexter A. Galban

Career Opportunities of DepEd

The Department of Education (DepEd) offers a range of career opportunities for individuals at different stages of their professional journey. 

Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, DepEd provides jobs in teaching, administration, curriculum development, and various support roles. 

Teachers play a vital role in shaping the future by educating students, while administrators help manage and improve the education system. 

DepEd also offers positions in research, policy development, and educational technology, making it an inclusive hub for those passionate about education. 

So, if you’re interested in helping students learn and grow or contributing to the improvement of the education system, DepEd has a variety of career paths to explore.

Main Office Contact Informations

  • Address: 2nd Floor Department Of Education Building, Deped Meralco Avenue, Pasig, 1605 Metro Manila
  • Contact Info: (+63 2) 8636 1663 | 8633 1942 | 8635-9817 | 8638-7530 | 8638-7531 | 8638-7529 | (+63 919) 456 0027 | (+63 995) 921 8461
  • Email: action@deped.gov.ph

Attached Agencies

The following agencies, councils and schools are attached to DepEd for policy and program coordination:

  • Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education
  • Instructional Materials Council (IMC)
  • National Academy of Sports (NAS)
  • National Book Development Board (NBDB)
  • National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT)
  • National Museum of the Philippines
  • National Science Teaching Instrumentation Center (NSTIC)
  • Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA)

 Conclusion

The Department of Education (DepEd) plays a crucial role in guaranteeing quality education for everyone in the Philippines. With a mission focused on equitable and comprehensive basic education, guided by core values and mandated by Republic Act 9155, DepEd stands as a cornerstone of the nation’s educational landscape.

For aspiring applicants, here are some helpful tips:

1. Understand the Mission: Familiarize yourself with DepEd’s mission and values. Aligning your goals with theirs can make you a more attractive candidate.

2. Diverse Career Paths: the diverse career opportunities within DepEd, ranging from teaching to administration, research, and technology. Find the path that aligns with your skills and passion.

3. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on educational policies, trends, and innovations. Being well-informed showcases your commitment to staying current in the field.

4. Professional Development: Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Highlight any additional certifications or training that can enhance your qualifications.

5. Emphasize Your Contribution: Showcase how your skills and experiences align with DepEd’s goals. Illustrate how you can contribute to the mission of providing quality education for all.

By following these tips, you can position yourself as a strong candidate and contribute significantly to the ongoing efforts of DepEd in shaping the future of education in the Philippines. Good luck!

Citation

  1. Department of Education. (2017). Deped.gov.ph. https://www.deped.gov.ph/
  2. ‌Wikipedia Contributors. (2019, December 20). Department of Education (Philippines). Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Department_of_Education_(Philippines)