Students in remote and underserved communities are set to receive better government support after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law Republic Act No. 12321, or the Last Mile and GIDA Schools Act.
The new law institutionalizes government assistance for public schools in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), addressing long-standing problems such as lack of classrooms, learning materials, teachers, electricity, internet, and other basic services.
It also orders the Department of Education (DepEd) to identify and map all Last Mile and GIDA Schools within a year to guide funding and program implementation.
The measure requires various government agencies to help improve roads, electricity, internet access, water supply, and transportation for remote schools, while local governments are encouraged to provide transport or alternative learning options where needed.
Teachers assigned to these schools will also receive additional support, including hardship and mobility allowances, housing assistance, scholarships, and career development opportunities.
Schools located in ancestral domains will also integrate Indigenous knowledge, languages, and culturally relevant learning materials.
President Marcos signed the law on July 22.IMT
