The education community in the Philippines is in mourning and demanding urgent policy reforms following the tragic and untimely death of a dedicated public school teacher in Muntinlupa City.
A Community in Mourning Demands Answers
The Teachers' Dignity Coalition has expressed its profound sorrow over the passing of Madam Agnes Buenaflor, a teacher from Pedro E. Diaz High School in Muntinlupa City. In a statement released on January 12, 2026, TDC National Chairman Benjo Basas honored Buenaflor's lifelong commitment to guiding the youth and public education.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday, January 8, 2026, was reported to have taken place during a scheduled classroom observation. This has prompted immediate local action and a nationwide call for change.
In response, Violeta Gonzales, the Schools Division Superintendent of Muntinlupa City, ordered the suspension of all classroom observations within the city. This gesture aims to honor Teacher Buenaflor and provide educators time to grieve.
National Call to Review Performance Rating System
In light of the tragedy, the TDC is urgently calling on the Department of Education and Education Secretary Sonny Angara to declare a nationwide suspension of classroom observations. The coalition has formally communicated this demand in a letter to the DepEd leadership.
The group argues that the current framework for classroom observations, which is a key part of the teacher performance rating system, needs an exhaustive review. They stress that these observations should function as a supportive tool for professional development, not a punitive measure that induces severe stress.
"Teachers, especially seasoned ones, are trained professionals who should not be made to repeatedly prove their competence under conditions that may unduly add to their stress and workload," the TDC emphasized.
Proposed Reforms for Teacher Welfare
The TDC is pushing for a multi-faceted approach to reform. Their proposals include:
- Conducting broad consultations with classroom teachers across the country to review the existing performance appraisal framework.
- Reviving the Performance Appraisal System for Teachers, which they describe as a simpler and more developmental alternative to the current system.
- Holding a direct dialogue with DepEd officials to discuss these proposed reforms, emphasizing collaborative policymaking.
Furthermore, the coalition is urging the government to guarantee the health and wellness of educators by providing free, accessible, and quality medical services. They assert that teacher well-being is fundamental to the effective delivery of public education.
The TDC's Muntinlupa chapter is currently coordinating with school and division officials to seek clarity, extend support, and pursue compassionate actions following the loss of their colleague.
This heartbreaking event has starkly highlighted the critical need for education policies that are humane, supportive, and truly developmental—policies that ultimately uphold the dignity, trust, and welfare of every Filipino teacher.
