The Department of Education (DepEd) is increasing its efforts to support the health of public school teachers, recognizing that many educators struggle with medical concerns that affect their work and overall well-being.
High Blood Pressure a Common Issue Among Teachers
Education Secretary Edgardo “Sonny” Angara said that many teachers suffer from high blood pressure, headaches, and body pains. These conditions often affect their energy levels and ability to perform in the classroom.
According to Angara, teachers’ health cannot be ignored because they are at the center of delivering quality education.
YAKAP Program to Provide Free Health Services
To address these health concerns, DepEd is working closely with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) through the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP).
YAKAP provides teachers with:
- Free medical consultations
- Basic laboratory tests
- Access to local health centers through school-linked services
The program also supports CLASS+, which connects school clinics to nearby health facilities. This partnership makes it easier for teachers to receive timely medical care without having to travel far from work.
Many teachers do not have enough time for check-ups due to busy schedules, so DepEd sees YAKAP as a valuable support system.
No Increase in Teacher HMO Benefits for Now
Angara also mentioned that DepEd currently has no plans to increase the health maintenance organization (HMO) coverage for teachers. He said the existing ₱7,000 HMO benefit is already a new and significant support for public school teachers.
Health Support Connected to Career Development
Aside from health programs, DepEd is also working to improve teachers’ career growth. Angara recently led the oath-taking of nearly 2,000 teachers and school staff in Central Luzon, recognizing their promotions under the expanded career progression system.
The strengthened promotion system is part of DepEd’s long-term plan to provide better opportunities for educators while also supporting their wellness needs.
DepEd’s Goal: Healthier Teachers, Better Education
DepEd believes that improving teachers’ health leads to better classroom instruction and more effective learning for students. With programs like YAKAP and CLASS+, the department aims to build a school environment where teachers are healthier, more supported, and better prepared to teach.
DepEd’s Goal: Healthier Teachers, Better Education
What health problems do many teachers experience?
Many teachers often suffer from high blood pressure, headaches, and body pains. These health issues can disrupt their work and affect their performance in the classroom.
What program is DepEd using to support teachers’ health?
DepEd is working with PhilHealth through the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP). This program offers free health services for teachers and students.
What free health services can teachers receive under YAKAP?
Teachers may receive:
– Free medical consultations
– Basic laboratory tests
– Access to local health centers through school-linked services
What is CLASS+?
CLASS+ stands for Clinics for Learners’ Access to School-Health Services Plus.
It connects school clinics to nearby health facilities, making it easier for teachers to get medical support without needing to travel far.
Why is this health program important for teachers?
Many teachers have busy schedules and do not have enough time for regular check-ups. The YAKAP program gives them easier access to health services, which helps them stay healthy and perform better in school.
Will DepEd increase HMO coverage for teachers?
DepEd currently has no plans to increase the teachers’ HMO coverage. The present ₱7,000 HMO benefit is considered a significant support for public school teachers.
Who benefits from the YAKAP program?
Both teachers and learners benefit from the program. For example, in Minuyan Elementary School in Bulacan, about 3,000 students are set to receive health support.
How does teachers’ health affect education?
Healthy teachers are able to teach better, manage classrooms well, and support students more effectively. DepEd believes that improving teacher health leads to better learning outcomes.
Is DepEd also helping teachers with career development?
Yes. DepEd is promoting teachers through the career progression system under Republic Act No. 12288. Nearly 2,000 teachers from Central Luzon were recently promoted.
What is DepEd’s long-term goal?
DepEd aims to create a school environment where teachers are healthy, supported, and motivated, which leads to higher-quality education for Filipino students.
