ANGARA CALLS FOR ACCURATE EDUCATIONAL DATA

In the Senate Finance Committee hearing yesterday to deliberate the Department of Education's (DepEd) budget for 2011, Senator Edgardo J. Angara highlighted the need for accuracy and truthfulness of educational data presented to lawmakers.

"We need accurate, on-ground data about the Philippine educational system which can be validated by independent bodies, because ultimately, the budget allocation will be based on this information," he said.

Angara, head of the Senate Committee on Education, Culture and the Arts and vice-chair of the Finance Committee, led the discussion on the P207.72-B budget proposed by DepEd. He explained that most of the projected expenses submitted by DepEd were based on research data accumulated by the same agency.

He suggested that the DepEd modernize and update their Research and Statistics Division in order to come up with data that can be easily verified.

"The key is to move into IT-based research and development, and make use of the advancements in information technology so that we can begin the creation of accurate records on Philippine education," he said.

Angara, former president of the University of the Philippines and known advocate for the improvement of research and development in the country underscored the significance of reliable information.

"I cannot stress enough how important, how vital these statistics and data are to the improvement of our educational system. We must start a good database for educational planning so that every peso, every centavo is properly allocated," said Angara.