Senator Win Gatchalian is considering new routes for professionals to become licensed teachers, a move he believes could strengthen senior high school education in the Philippines.

Gatchalian brought up this possibility during a Senate hearing on Senate Bill No. 2840, which seeks to amend the Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act of 1994 (Republic Act No. 4784). The proposed bill would introduce alternative pathways to teacher licensure, allowing applicants to either pass the traditional licensure exam or submit a portfolio demonstrating they meet professional teaching standards.

“The world is changing, and specialization is more important than ever. For instance, if we incorporate technical-vocational courses into our curriculum, we need specialized teachers in those fields,” said Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education.

He highlighted the struggles of a technical college in Valenzuela aiming to offer senior high school courses in graphic design and computer studies but struggling to find qualified teachers.

“Although there are graphic designers eager to teach these courses, there is currently no way for them to become licensed. We need to align our laws and policies with our educational goals, and right now, strengthening senior high school is a top priority,” Gatchalian explained.