Senator Bam Aquino pressed the Department of Education (DepEd) to present updated and accurate data on classroom shortages to ensure proper funding in the 2026 national budget.
Aquino raised the concern after learning that some condemned classrooms in Mabalacat, Pampanga had been left unreplaced for 10 years and were not on DepEd’s list.
He questioned whether the reported 166,000-classroom gap was accurate, suggesting it could be larger.
“The budget is ongoing. Sana naman tama ang mga numero natin. We’re asking you to come up with the best numbers because we have an opportunity to actually fund education in a big way this year. Kaya kailangan alam natin na tama ang numero natin,” the senator said during a Senate hearing on his proposed Classroom-Building Acceleration Program Act.
Aquino noted that precise figures are crucial, particularly after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signaled plans to realign P275 billion from flood control projects to education and healthcare.
He also urged DepEd to issue a clear policy and timeline on replacing condemned classrooms to prevent overcrowding and multiple shifts.
His Senate Bill No. 121 authorizes LGUs and NGOs to help build classrooms that meet national standards, with funding support from the national government.IMT
