We are not privy to the reasons behind the spate of appointments to the position of Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The situation however does raise questions on how the DENR is valued by this administration and whether there is recognition and appreciation of the mandate that DENR holds and must serve.

Multilingual education (MLE) is a major trend in addressing education needs of indigenous peoples and communities in the greater margins of many Asian countries. There is increasing awareness of the need for more appropriate education that sustains local culture and that bridges the social gap with mainstream society. Examples can be found in different parts of Asia, but a comprehensive understanding let alone a national strategy in the Philippines are lacking. Most communities are left with their own local initiatives and strengths to persevere, although external support is at times available.