Olongapo City – February 11, 2026 — A total of 151 newly promoted teachers and school heads formally took their oath of office during the Mass Oath Taking Ceremony held at the Multi-purpose Hall of Olongapo City National High School, marking another significant milestone in the implementation of the Expanded Career Progression System (ECPS) of the Department of Education.

The ceremony was graced by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Imelda P. Macaspac, together with the Human Resource Merit Promotion and Selection Board (HRMPSB) Members led by Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Ms. Ilynne S. Samonte, underscoring the Division’s strong commitment to recognizing merit, service, and professional growth among educators.

One of the highlights of the program was the sharing of inspirational testimonies from three teachers and one school head, who recounted their promotion journeys under the ECPS with deep gratitude. They acknowledged the vision and support of President Ferdinand E. Marcos Jr., DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, and other key education officials for making long-awaited career progression opportunities a reality for public school teachers.

Among the speakers was Ms. Aileen A. Araman, a retirable teacher with 38 years of service, who was promoted from Teacher I to Teacher III. She recalled how, in the past, limited promotion opportunities caused many teachers to reach retirement without advancement. Expressing heartfelt appreciation, she shared how meaningful it was to experience promotion under the ECPS, which she will still enjoy for the remaining two years before her mandatory retirement.

Similarly, Mr. Ronaldo Vento, also nearing retirement and promoted from Teacher I to Teacher IV, described the promotion as an “unexpected gift from above,” having already accepted retiring at his entry-level position. He expressed sincere gratitude to all individuals and offices who worked tirelessly to make the ECPS implementation possible.

In their messages, SDS Macaspac, ASDS Samonte, and Chief Education Supervisors Eleonor Cayabyab and Ricardo Ednave congratulated the newly promoted personnel, emphasizing that promotion entails not only financial benefits but also greater responsibility, higher expectations, and deeper commitment to quality teaching and learner welfare. Teachers and school heads were reminded to continue doing their best and to remain steadfast in caring for and nurturing learners.

To date, the Schools Division has recorded 538 approved applications for reclassification, which are set for implementation upon the issuance of the Notice of Organization, Staffing and Compensation Action (NOSCA) from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

The successful conduct of the Mass Oath Taking Ceremony reflects the Division’s unwavering support for professional advancement and its continued pursuit of excellence in public education through the Expanded Career Progression System.