MANILA — Senator Loren Legarda hailed the signing of Republic Act No. 12288, or the Career Progression System for Public School Teachers and School Leaders Act, calling it a landmark step in recognizing the competence, dedication, and vital role of Filipino educators.

The measure, authored and co-sponsored by Legarda, establishes a structured framework for professional growth and career advancement aimed at attracting, developing, and retaining the country’s best educators.

“In today’s rapidly changing world, the demands of the 21st-century learner require an education system that is forward-thinking and responsive. As we raise the bar for educational standards, it is not only our students whose future we must advance, but also our teachers who nurture and guide them every step of the way,” Legarda said.

RA 12288 creates two distinct career tracks for teachers and expands the teaching ladder with new higher-level positions such as Master Teacher IV, V, VI, and VII. Promotions will now be based on merit, competence, and fitness rather than the availability of vacancies.

“As we strive to elevate the quality of education for our learners, we must also uplift the status of our educators. By giving them clear and fair pathways for advancement, we affirm that the Filipino teacher lights the way forward,” Legarda added.