Home economics grads can now teach in schools

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte has signed into law a measure that allows home economics graduates to teach HE and related technical-vocational subjects in elementary and high school.

Republic Act 11168, signed on Jan. 3, declares that it is the policy of the state to allow graduates and specialists on specific fields that have limited licensed teacher applicants to teach in their specialized subjects for the basic education levels. 

“The state recognizes the invaluable contribution that Filipino professionals and specialists, particularly degree holders of HE, can make to the realization of a literate, skilled and productive citizenry,” the law reads. 

Home economics graduates will be required to obtain a National Certificate Level 1 and 2 from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority before they can teach high school students.

They will be required to take the licensure examination for teachers within five years from the date of hiring. Graduates who are willing to teach part-time will not be required to take the test.

Home economics will also be represented in the Teacher Education Council.