The Cebu Provincial Government has mobilized a substantial education budget exceeding P2.14 billion for the first six months of Governor Pamela Baricuatro's administration. This major financial push targets school infrastructure, learning programs, and the rehabilitation of campuses damaged by disasters across the province.
Unused Funds Prompt Immediate Action
According to a Facebook post from the Cebu Province Public Information Office (PIO) on Monday, December 29, 2025, these allocations were made after Governor Baricuatro ordered the revival of the Provincial School Board (PSB). The move came swiftly after she discovered that at least P1 billion in special education funds had been left unused when she assumed office.
The PIO statement emphasized the governor's decisive response, noting she "immediately buckled down to work, turning idle savings into active investments for the children’s future." To improve governance, the PSB was also expanded to include representatives from city school divisions and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
Breakdown of the P1.36 Billion Allocation
A detailed breakdown of the P1.36 billion in specific allocations was provided, showcasing a comprehensive approach to educational development:
- P776.5 million – For DepEd Cebu's Education Infrastructure and Programs needs.
- P500 million – Construction of new classrooms.
- P198 million – Repair of Gabaldon heritage school buildings.
- P516.6 million – School furniture and armchairs.
- P30 million – Learning materials and education innovation.
- P13 million – School repairs.
- P6 million – Enhancement of the robotics program.
- P7.5 million – Mandated regional and national education activities.
- P8.7 million – 2025 division-level education activities.
- P85 million – Temporary learning shelters for schools damaged in the September 30 earthquake.
The total cost for infrastructure and programs reached P1.2798 billion, with the P85 million supplemental budget for temporary classrooms bringing the full amount to P1.36 billion.
Additional Funding and Proactive Measures
Beyond provincial funds, Cebu also secured an additional P1 billion in assistance from the Department of Education (DepEd) specifically for school repairs. This was obtained during the Regional–National Investment Programming Dialogue, where Governor Baricuatro represented Central Visayas as chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC) 7.
Demonstrating further proactive planning, Baricuatro approved the early procurement of school supplies for 2026 to avoid delays in distribution. The province's technical-vocational training program, Sugbo Kahanas, is also being continued but has been enhanced with new components focused on job placement for graduates.
This series of actions marks a significant shift in the management of Cebu's education budget, aiming for stronger coordination, transparency, and timely delivery of resources to schools and students in need.
