MANILA, Philippines — In a major initiative to tackle the persistent classroom shortage in the country, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the release of ₱17.27 billion to build nearly 5,000 classrooms nationwide. The funding, approved by Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Rolando “Rolly” Toledo on April 13, 2026, is aimed at providing immediate relief to overcrowded public schools.
The funds were released to the Department of Education (DepEd) via a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) to accelerate construction and furnishing.
The investment is a significant portion of the government’s 2026 education infrastructure strategy:
- Scope: Construction of 4,960 new classrooms across various regions.
- Inclusions: The budget covers not just the physical structures but also the provision of essential school furniture and fixtures (desks, chairs, and blackboards).
- Source of Funds: The ₱17.27 billion is charged against the ₱85.40 billion Basic Education Facilities (BEF) Fund under the FY 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
The release reinforces the President’s commitment to a multi-sectoral approach to education:
- LGU Partnership: The program institutionalizes a partnership between DepEd and Local Government Units (LGUs) to streamline the rehabilitation, repair, and construction of school facilities.
- Equity Focus: Priorities are being set for underserved communities and areas where the classroom-to-student ratio is most critical.
- Strategic Vision: Secretary Toledo noted that the move is part of a “whole-of-government” approach to ensure no student is left behind due to a lack of physical learning spaces.
“Sa utos ng Pangulo, pinapabilis natin ang pagpapatayo ng mga silid-aralan dahil hindi dapat naghihintay ang pangarap ng kabataan,” said Secretary Toledo. (By order of the President, we are accelerating the construction of classrooms because the dreams of the youth should not have to wait.)
Toledo added that these buildings represent more than just “walls and roofs”—they are symbols of hope and the first step toward a better life for millions of Filipino learners.
The construction is expected to begin immediately to prepare for upcoming school cycles. This marks one of the largest single-release allotments for school infrastructure in recent years, highlighting the administration’s pivot toward basic education as a pillar of national development.