Why Congressman Kiko Benitez is the Ideal candidate for DepEd secretary
Negros Occidental – Congressman Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, representing the Third District of Negros Occidental, is a notable figure in the region’s socio-economic landscape. With a robust academic background, including a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a summa cum laude B.A. from Cornell University, Benitez transitioned from academia to politics with a vision for sustainable and inclusive growth.
Academic to Public Servant:
Before entering the political arena, Benitez served as President of the Philippine Women’s University and held teaching positions at the University of Washington-Seattle. His academic pursuits provided him with a deep understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics that shape policy-making.
Legislative Contributions:
Benitez has spearheaded various legislative measures aimed at enhancing urban development, housing, digital infrastructure, and education. Noteworthy bills include House Bill No. 66 on sustainable urban development and House Bill No. 1239, which aims to bolster digital infrastructure in rural areas. His role as Chair of the Committee on Housing and Urban Development underscores his commitment to addressing housing crises and promoting urban renewal.
The New Negros Island Region:
One of Benitez’s significant advocacies is the establishment of the Negros Island Region (NIR), a move designed to streamline government services and promote cohesive regional development. The creation of NIR, encompassing Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, is expected to bring government services closer to the people, fostering a more integrated approach to development.
Smart Asenso Vision:
Benitez envisions a “Smart Asenso” for his district, emphasizing technological innovation and sustainable solutions to meet the evolving needs of his constituents. His leadership extends beyond legislative duties, playing an active role in civic organizations such as the Bayanihan Folk Arts Foundation and the Philippine Air Force Educational Fund Inc.
Community Engagement:
His dedication to community service is evident in his active involvement in various cultural and educational foundations. Benitez’s holistic approach to development integrates cultural heritage with modern advancements, ensuring that progress benefits all sectors of society.
Family Legacy in Education:
The Benitez family has a long history of being educators. Benitez Hall at the University of the Philippines, named after Dean Conrado Benitez, is a testament to the family’s enduring legacy in education. This rich heritage underscores the Benitez family’s commitment to advancing educational excellence and accessibility in the Philippines.
Why Kiko Benitez is the Right Choice for DepEd Secretary:
Congressman Benitez isn’t just a politician; he’s an educator at heart. His extensive background in educational administration, combined with his hands-on experience in teaching, makes him a perfect fit for the Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary. Imagine a leader who understands the intricacies of the educational system from the inside out and has a vision for making it better through technology and innovation.
Benitez’s friendly and approachable manner, coupled with his commitment to educational reforms, can bring a much-needed fresh perspective to DepEd. He is passionate about making education accessible and inclusive for all Filipino children. With the recent resignation of VP Sara Duterte as DepEd Secretary, there’s unfinished business that requires a dedicated and knowledgeable leader. Kiko Benitez’s track record shows that he cannot only continue these initiatives but also enhance them, ensuring that every student gets the quality education they deserve.
Benitez’s leadership style emphasizes inclusivity and innovation, crucial qualities for addressing the current challenges in the Philippine education system. His approach is not just about maintaining the status quo but about driving transformative change that benefits all learners. His proven ability to manage educational institutions and implement reforms can provide the stability and visionary leadership needed at DepEd.
Public Clamor and Support:
The public’s clamor for Benitez to be appointed as the next DepEd Secretary is evident on social media platforms. Supporters have voiced their views using hashtags such as #KalihimNgDEPEd, #EdukasyonAngBida, and #congkikoBenitez. These hashtags highlight the collective hope and enthusiasm for a future where Benitez can lead and transform the Philippine education system. The widespread support underscores the belief in Benitez’s capability to drive meaningful and impactful change in education. At the time of writing, there are 7.5 million views on social media advocating for his appointment.
Conclusion:
Congressman Kiko Benitez is an educator first, which remains his primary focus and passion. His background in academia and his hands-on experience in teaching make him uniquely qualified to understand and address the needs of the Philippine education system. While he is also a politician, it is his dedication to education that drives his vision for a better future. His legislative and civic efforts are paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future for his constituents. His appointment as DepEd Secretary would be a step towards ensuring quality education for all Filipinos.
