The Department of Education yesterday said that teachers are entitled to due process after broadcaster Raffy Tulfo recently pressured a 55-year-old public school teacher to resign publicly through his radio program.
In a statement, the Department tagged Tulfo’s move as an “on-the-spot compromise” for coercing Grade 2 teacher, Merlita Limjuco, to resign in exchange for the non-filing of complaints against her.
“Teachers are entitled to due process, which was not given to her during the program, especially since resignation from her job earlier than her intended retirement will have serious impact on her person and family,” DepEd said in its first official statement since the issue came out.
The confrontation between Tulfo and Limjuco happened in an episode of “Raffy Tulfo in Action” over TV 5 where a grandmother and two parents lashed out at the teacher for asking the child to sit outside the classroom after he failed to bring his report card.
Criticisms were hurled against Tulfo following the episode as the public took the side of Limjuco who claimed she had no idea that the phone interview was aired live. The Education department pointed out that learners and teachers are treated with dignity and respect through the existing policies and processes at all levels of governance of DepEd.
“Schools are second home to learners, while teachers are their second parents. We entrust our children to the institution and teachers. In addition to the right of children to education, their rights against bullying and child abuse are also strongly protected,”
The DepEd also pointed out that teachers also exercise “substitute parental authority” while children are in school and are expected to supervise the conduct of the child, including disciplining them as part of their upbringing, while maintaining their dignity and safety.
The DepEd assured the public that the case of Limjuco is being handled by their regional and division offices through procedures consistent with the applicable laws and policies. (Alexandria San Juan)