Senator Lito Lapid is pushing for the passage of a bill recognizing the vital contributions and sacrifices of Education Support Personnel (ESP) by declaring May 16 as the National Day of Education Support Personnel.
Senate Bill No. 1472 proposes that this date be observed annually as a special holiday, dedicated to celebrating the efforts of those working behind the scenes in the education sector.
The bill is also in response to calls for recognizing the day as International Day of Education Support Personnel, honoring their rights, contributions, and roles in ensuring quality education.
Education Support Personnel refers to employees in various roles across both public and private educational institutions.
These include administrative staff, career counselors, librarians, maintenance workers, nutritionists, health and welfare personnel, teaching assistants, security staff, IT support, transportation, and specialists in education.
Lapid emphasized that ESPs are crucial members of the educational system and have a significant impact on students’ lives both inside and outside the classroom. “Our students are safe, healthy, and ready to learn every day because of them,” he said.
The proposed bill also designates the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as the primary agencies responsible for preparing and implementing annual programs to commemorate National Education Support Personnel Day.