PNS — REPORTERS covering the education beat expressed dismay over the actuations of Department of Education Secretary Armin Luistro towards a radio reporter who tried to get his opinion about sex education.
The encounter happened during the turnover ceremony held last Thursday at the DepEd main office along Meralco Avenue, Pasig City.
Luistro took over the education post vice outgoing Secretary Mona Valisno, who served the department after former Secretary Jesli Lapus was appointed to the Department of Trade and Industry.
Radio DZMM reporter Denis Datu asked Luistro after the turnover if he is in favor of implementing the “sex education” in high schools.
Luistro brushed aside Datu’s question with a curt: “Wag ninyo akong tanungin, dahil kayong media hindi kayo nakakatulong.”
The reporters, who were present aside from Datu were surprised by the unbecoming response of the DepEd secretary.
Datu right after the incident posted the statement of Luistro on his facebook account, resulting in negative reactions from the members of the media and other sectors of society.
Many condemned Luistro and urged him to learn how to respect the members of the Fourth Estate, show good manners as example to students.
Some reactions questioned his qualifications to serve as Education secretary even if he came from a highly respected school.
Further reactions speculated the search committee of President Benigno Aquino III might have considered Luistro for the education post because he was one of those who supported the call for former President Gloria Arroyo to step down.
An official of the DepEd, who refused to be named, apologized for Luistro saying the media should help the education chief because he is new to the position.