Senator Bam Aquino called for strict public vigilance to ensure the record P1.38-trillion education budget for 2026 remains untouched as the bicameral conference committee reconciles the Senate and House versions of the national budget.
Aquino said the livestreaming of bicam proceedings gives the public a chance to monitor real-time any cuts, insertions, or questionable adjustments, stressing that citizens—not only media and politicians—must watch closely to prevent corruption and protect essential education funds.
He warned that any move to slash the education budget should be immediately opposed, saying good governance requires active public oversight until the President signs the final 2026 budget.
The Senate’s version includes over P65 billion for 27,000 to 30,000 new classrooms, P27 billion for school-based feeding programs, and P37 billion for the Free College Law, benefiting 5.7 million students.
An additional P30 billion is allotted for student allowances, covering 1.5 million underprivileged learners, including 490,000 from the 4Ps program, bringing total assistance to more than 27 million K–12 and tertiary students.IMT
