Classroom observation is one of the tools used by the Department of Education (DepEd) to improve teaching. It helps supervisors and school heads understand how teachers work in the classroom. But recently, the issue became emotional and controversial after a tragic incident in Muntinlupa City. A public school teacher, Agnes Buenaflor, died during a classroom observation. Because of this, many people called for the suspension of classroom observation.

However, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said he is not in favor of suspending classroom observation. He believes it is still important for the quality of education in the Philippines. While he recognizes the teachers’ concerns, Angara believes that the solution is not to stop the observation but to change how it is done.

What Happened in Muntinlupa?

Teacher Agnes Buenaflor was doing her job in Pedro E. Diaz High School when the tragedy happened. Reports say that she was in the middle of classroom observation when she collapsed and later died. This deeply saddened the education community. Many teachers and groups asked the government to pause all classroom observations, saying it causes stress and pressure.

Agnes was known for being a hardworking teacher. Her death started a conversation about how stressful teaching has become, especially with the added pressure of being observed and judged.

Sonny Angara’s Stand on Classroom Observation

Sonny Angara said that classroom observation is important. According to him, the goal of observation is to improve teaching quality. When teachers are observed, they receive feedback. This feedback helps them grow and adjust their teaching style to better serve students.

Angara understands the pain and concern of teachers after the death of Teacher Agnes. But he also said that stopping observation is not the best answer. Instead, he wants to make the system more humane and supportive.

“We are not suspending classroom observation because it is important for teaching quality and learner outcomes. What we are changing is the system—from high-stakes to more supportive approaches,” said Angara.

He added that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gave clear instructions: take care of the teachers. That’s why the DepEd is now working on new rules to ensure that teachers are not overwhelmed during classroom observations.

What Will Change in Classroom Observation?

Angara promised changes in how classroom observations will be done. The plan is to move away from a “high-pressure” environment. Instead of making teachers feel like they are being tested, the new approach will support and guide them.

Here are some ideas that DepEd is considering:

• Fewer observers in the room to reduce pressure
• Shorter observation time
• Observations that feel more like a coaching session
• More preparation time for teachers
• Observers giving positive and helpful feedback, not just criticism

These steps are meant to protect teachers’ mental health while still keeping the quality of education high.

Why Classroom Observation Still Matters

Classroom observation helps schools understand how teachers are doing. It’s not just about checking mistakes. It’s also about finding what works and sharing that with other teachers.

Angara believes that without classroom observation, it will be hard to improve teaching methods. “We need to know what’s happening inside the classroom,” he said. “That’s the only way we can help teachers and make sure students are learning well.”

Some students may not be learning the right way because of outdated or weak teaching strategies. With proper classroom observation, teachers can receive updated training and advice.

Teachers’ Reaction

Many teachers are still upset and stressed after the death of their fellow teacher. Some say that the system expects too much from them, and the pressure is hurting their health.

One teacher shared, “We love teaching, but sometimes it feels like we are being judged all the time. Classroom observations are scary, not helpful.”

Because of this, teachers’ unions and advocacy groups are still pushing for a break from classroom observations until the system is fixed.

Angara’s Message to Teachers

Sonny Angara thanked Teacher Agnes for her hard work and dedication. He also thanked all Filipino teachers for their sacrifices.

“We thank Teacher Agnes Buenaflor and all our teachers. The President’s message is clear: take care of our teachers,” Angara said.

He assured teachers that the DepEd is working fast to fix the problems. The goal is not just to observe but to support teachers better.

A Balancing Act

The situation shows the difficult balance between keeping standards in education and protecting teachers’ well-being. Angara’s decision not to suspend classroom observation is not about ignoring the pain of teachers, but about finding better solutions.

Many agree that teacher support should not be about removing tools that work, but about making those tools kinder and fairer.

Moving Forward

The DepEd is now reviewing its guidelines and asking for feedback from teachers. They want to make classroom observation helpful, not harmful.

Schools are also being reminded to:

• Respect teachers’ time and energy
• Provide mental health support
• Avoid last-minute or surprise observations
• Create a culture of trust and learning

In the coming months, DepEd is expected to release a new policy on classroom observation. This policy should focus on support, fairness, and care for teachers.

What Can Be Done Now?

As a teacher, student, or parent, here are some things you can do:

• Teachers: Share your experience and give feedback to your school head. Your voice can help improve the system.
• Students: Show respect to your teachers, especially during difficult times.
• Parents: Support your children’s teachers. Understand that teaching is not easy.
• School Heads: Apply the observation in a way that motivates teachers, not scares them.

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