Albay: The provincial government of Albay is set to construct 29 new classrooms across the province following the signing of a supplemental memorandum of agreement with the central office of the Department of Education (DepEd). Albay Governor Noel Rosal announced plans to commence construction before the opening of the School Year 2026-2027 to address the pressing need for improved learning facilities.
According to Philippines News Agency, the project will be funded through an allocation of over PHP90 million under the 2026 General Appropriations Act via the Basic Education Facilities Program. Governor Rosal emphasized the importance of initiating the bidding process promptly, stating that even if the classrooms are not fully completed by the school year's start, construction should at least be underway. The program empowers local government units to directly implement classroom construction projects in collaboration with DepEd.
Governor Rosal acknowledged that while the current allocation does not fully meet the province's classroom requirements, it is a significant step toward alleviating shortages in several schools. He highlighted that the PHP90 million allocation is specifically for the construction of new classrooms and does not cover the rehabilitation or repair of existing structures. The average cost per classroom is estimated to range from PHP2.6 million to PHP3 million, allowing more schools to benefit from the initiative.
The provincial government plans to incorporate an expandable classroom design to facilitate future upgrades and expansions based on individual school needs. DepEd provided a list of beneficiary schools determined by assessments and priority listings, with a focus on those with the most urgent requirements.
In a related development, Legazpi City Mayor Hisham Ismail signed a separate memorandum of agreement for the construction of 50 new classrooms in the city. These classrooms will be built in various schools, including San Francisco Integrated School, Taysan, Homapon, Estanza, Matanag, Legazpi City National High School, and Bagumbayan High School. The project also covers the repair and rehabilitation of old and dilapidated classrooms to ensure safety for students and teachers.
Construction in Legazpi City is expected to commence within the year once all necessary documentation and funding requirements are fulfilled, following Education Secretary Angara's directive for the prompt release of funds. Mayor Ismail stated that the project aims to provide students with comfortable, quality learning facilities and help address classroom shortages in the city's public schools.
