In a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the Department of Education's operational challenges and the governor's proposed changes to its management structure. A key discussion point centered on the governor's request for increased authority over the department, which some officials interpreted as an ultimatum that could hinder collaboration with educational teams unless granted additional power.

Participants highlighted the pressing need for skilled workers and manpower to address ongoing issues within the department, particularly in the wake of recent typhoons. They emphasized that the governor had previously been authorized to provide support by detailing government employees to assist with skilled work, yet there were doubts about the commitment to follow through on these promises.

The conversation also touched on the misconception of a backlog in public health services, with officials clarifying that while there is significant work to be done, there is no current backlog. This led to discussions about the potential for utilizing building inspectors from the Department of Public Works to expedite compliance with public health codes.

Concerns were voiced about the implications of centralizing control over the Department of Education, recalling historical efforts to establish checks and balances to prevent political interference in educational management. The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing the department's needs while navigating the complexities of governance and resource allocation. As the budget discussions loom, the focus remains on ensuring that the department can sustain its operations effectively in the long term.