Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed that education remains a cornerstone of his administration's priorities, vowing continued investments in reforms, infrastructure, and support services during his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos emphasized the importance of improving the educational system, acknowledging challenges particularly in mathematics, science, reading, and comprehension. The President highlighted the success of programs like Bawat Bata Makakabasa and the Literacy Remediation Program, which significantly reduced the number of low-emerging readers in Grade 3.
Marcos also pointed to the implementation of laws such as the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program and Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), which have been particularly beneficial for learners in remote areas. The Department of Education reported that at least 90,000 learners improved their literacy skills during the summer ARAL program.
Efforts to simplify enrollment for Kindergarten and ECCD programs are underway, aiming to make education more accessible. The school-based feeding program is set to increase its reach to 1.4 million Kindergarten learners by School Year 2025-2026, alongside the construction of 328 new child development centers in impoverished municipalities.
Addressing mental health, a concern for many young people, the administration plans to hire more school counselors and expand services through the YAKAP Caravan in collaboration with the Department of Health. This initiative will provide free medical check-ups, vaccinations, cancer screenings, and medicines for learners and teachers.
Furthermore, over PHP1 billion has been allocated for the development of more than 300 Bulilit Centers or barangay child development facilities nationwide. Marcos also committed to addressing the shortage of classrooms, stating that 22,000 had already been completed, with plans for an additional 40,000 before the end of his term. The construction of these facilities is part of a broader partnership with the private sector.
