Manila, Feb. 4 -- The Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday said it is advancing partnerships with the church and the community to uphold the welfare of learners.

In a statement, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara said these collaborations support the Marcos administration in responding to challenges, including poverty, mobility, and weak retention among marginalized learners.

In particular, Angara said its coordination with Caritas Philippines can help expand the reach of the agency's programs as it has a nationwide network of 86 diocesan social action centers.

"We take our inspiration from all of you. Your stories and successes drive us towards meaningful reforms," he said, citing church-led initiatives like flexible and trust-based c...