Governors and Teachers Rally Behind DepEd-LGU Partnership to Speed Up Classroom Construction
Governors and teachers across the Philippines have voiced robust support for the Department of Education's (DepEd) enhanced collaboration with local government units (LGUs) to accelerate classroom building efforts. This initiative follows the allocation of Php9.6 billion for the first phase of the classroom construction program under the 2026 national budget, signaling a significant push to address infrastructure gaps in the education sector.
Presidential Emphasis on Education and Local Collaboration
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the importance of this partnership during a historic signing ceremony in Malacañang. "Mga kababayan, naniniwala ako na kapag nagtutulungan ang pambansang pamahalaan at ang lokal na pamahalaan, mas malinaw, mas mabilis, at mas ramdam ng mamamayan ang resulta, lalong-lalo na sa edukasyon," he stated. He further emphasized that education will remain the top priority for his administration, highlighting a commitment to improving learning conditions nationwide.
Budget Breakdown and Program Details
Of the Php9.6 billion earmarked for the initial tranche, Php4.1 billion is designated for provincial governments to construct approximately 1,200 classrooms. Additionally, DepEd plans to procure around 2,800 prefabricated classrooms valued at over Php5 billion. This first phase aims to deliver a total of 4,000 new classrooms across the country, enhancing daily teaching and learning environments for students and educators alike.
Institutionalizing LGU Involvement in Education Infrastructure
Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted that this move formalizes a long-standing strategy to leverage LGUs' capabilities in delivering school infrastructure, with backing from Congress. "Mr. President, ito talaga 'yong matagal ninyo nang pina-plano at sinasabi na dapat gawin natin. Being a former governor yourself, alam ninyo ang kapasidad ng ating mga local chief executives," Angara remarked. He noted that provincial governors are now key allies in this historic endeavor, fostering a unified approach to educational development.
Local Leaders and Educators Voice Enthusiastic Support
Quirino Governor Dax Cua, national president of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP), described the initiative as "isang mahalagang hakbang tungo sa mas pinatatag at mas maayos na edukasyon para sa ating mga kabataan." Similarly, South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo 'Jun' Tamayo Jr., president of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP), affirmed LGUs' collective commitment, stating that real progress occurs when national and local governments collaborate, particularly for learners.
Teachers on the ground also welcomed the development, citing the direct benefits of improved facilities. Teacher Marlet D. Bongat from Tabaco, Albay, expressed gratitude for government efforts to tackle classroom shortages, emphasizing the critical role of a conducive learning environment. Teacher Kisyzl N. Uy of South Cotabato pointed out that inadequate facilities negatively impact both teaching and learning, making this initiative a positive step forward.
Goals of the Strengthened Collaboration
The reinforced partnership between DepEd and LGUs aims to optimize resources, reduce construction timelines, and ensure broader access to safe and adequate classrooms for students nationwide. By combining national oversight with local execution, the program seeks to create a more efficient and responsive system for addressing educational infrastructure needs, ultimately fostering better outcomes for the youth of the Philippines.
