Manila: House of Representatives Committee on Higher and Technical Education Chairperson, Tingog Party-List Rep. Jude Acidre, on Friday welcomed the proposed 2026 PHP1.38 trillion allocation for the education sector, describing the panel's level of support as a reflection of the government's firm commitment to placing education at the center of the national development agenda.
According to Philippines News Agency, Acidre, who is also a co-chair of the 2nd Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), emphasized the urgency of addressing learning recovery, improving sector governance, upgrading facilities, and strengthening support for teachers and school leaders. The executive director of EDCOM II, Karol Mark Yee, and the commissioners have consistently highlighted these priorities. The proposed budget, which is equivalent to about 4.5 percent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), indicates that these priorities are being met with the necessary resources.
Acidre acknowledged the significant role of the Department of Education (DepEd), led by Secretary Sonny Angara, which receives the largest portion of the allocation. This funding will sustain crucial programs such as Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL), classroom construction and rehabilitation, school-based feeding, teacher hiring, and the modernization of basic education. These initiatives align with the recommendations of EDCOM II and the long-term direction set by Congress.
The panel chair emphasized the need for careful stewardship of this budget, advocating for efficient use of resources, strong inter-agency coordination, and investments that lead to real improvements in learning outcomes. Effective implementation is key to translating this historic allocation into lasting progress for students and schools.
For higher education and technical-vocational training, the proposed budget supports the committee's Higher Education Legislative Agenda. This includes modernizing the governance of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), expanding student access, advancing digital transformation, institutionalizing micro-credentials, strengthening quality assurance, and fostering higher education-industry partnerships. Acidre noted that these reforms are essential for creating a more responsive and future-ready higher education system.
Acidre concluded by stating that the PHP1.38 trillion budget is more than just a figure in the General Appropriations Bill. It represents a national commitment to education as the foundation for inclusive growth and the most significant investment in the nation's people.
