(PHOTO COURTESY)
TACLOBAN CITY — Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) has once again made its mark in teacher education after four of its graduates landed in the Top 10 of the 2025 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT), drawing praise from Eastern Samar Lone District Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales.
Based on the results of the September and November 2025 LEPT released by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on December 18, ESSU College of Education graduates Jennifer Bacula and Katherine Joy Elem both ranked No. 7 in the elementary level, each posting an identical rating of 92.80 percent.
In the secondary level, ESSU graduates Aira Shane Nicart and Chris Anthony Gajelan secured No. 9 and No. 10 spots, respectively, with ratings of 93.20 percent and 93.00 percent.
Gonzales described the achievement as a source of pride not only for ESSU but for the entire province, noting that it reflects the university’s sustained commitment to quality teacher education.
“Jennifer, Katherine, Aira Shane, and Chris Anthony exemplify academic excellence, discipline, and dedication. Their achievement reflects not only their personal effort but also the quality of training and mentorship provided by ESSU’s College of Education,” Gonzales said.
“They have brought honor to Eastern Samar and inspired a new generation of future teachers,” he added.
The lawmaker also congratulated all examinees who passed the licensure examination, underscoring the vital role of teachers in nation-building.
“Teaching is one of the most important professions in our society. It shapes minds, values, and the future of our country. Your success is a victory for Philippine education,” Gonzales said.
Gonzales expressed optimism about employment prospects for newly licensed teachers, citing ongoing government efforts to expand the public school workforce to address classroom shortages and improve instructional quality.
Earlier this month, the Department of Education (DepEd) announced plans to hire 32,916 new classroom teachers in 2026 through the creation of an equal number of Teacher I positions.
“With thousands of new teaching positions authorized by Congress, our newly licensed teachers can be optimistic about securing meaningful and purpose-driven employment,” Gonzales said.
He added that Congress remains committed to improving teachers’ welfare, noting that he has filed several measures aimed at enhancing compensation and overall support for public school teachers, including a proposal to triple the annual World Teachers’ Day Incentive Benefit.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
