Manila: The Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday announced its reinforced framework for the nationwide localized classroom building program, aimed at ensuring a transparent and efficient implementation with 79 partner local government units (LGUs) across the Philippines. This initiative is part of a PHP9.3-billion investment to construct 2,632 classrooms at over 600 school sites nationwide.
According to Philippines News Agency, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the importance of transparency in the program, stating that the guidelines are designed to expedite fund release while ensuring projects are clean, high-quality, and free from anomalies. The updated guidelines include strengthened institutional oversight and streamlined monitoring to ensure local projects align with national timelines and fiscal standards.
To maintain strict accountability, DepEd has established the Joint Project Implementation and Construction Committee (PICC) for total institutional oversight. All 79 LGUs are required to use INSIGHTED, a real-time digital validation and monitoring system, to track construction progress and avoid delays. The projects must adhere to DepEd's technical standards, safety protocols, and the New Government Procurement Act.
The new guidelines also introduce a milestone-based fiscal structure, ensuring responsible use of funds through three strict installments tied to verified construction milestones. A "green lane" financial mechanism is in place to streamline fund releases for compliant LGUs, preventing bureaucratic delays.
Eligible LGUs can either hire local contractors through competitive bidding or use their city and provincial engineers for construction, provided they meet national standards. This accountability framework ensures localized construction needs are met without compromising on quality or timelines.
The program complements other national initiatives, including DepEd's PHP36.227-billion funding for new classroom construction and the Public-Private Partnership School Infrastructure Program. With the updated guidelines now active, DepEd anticipates more local governments joining the program to accelerate classroom construction across the country.
Angara noted the significant impact of LGU collaboration in expediting facility construction, highlighting the crucial role of LGU support in addressing classroom shortages and ensuring safe and comfortable schools for learners.
