Iloilo city: The city government will partner with the Department of Education (DepEd) to address the shortage of classrooms through construction initiatives. Special Assistant to the Mayor Mathilde Tre±as disclosed that Iloilo City will be among the first local government units to sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with DepEd for various classroom infrastructure projects, including construction and improvements.

According to Philippines News Agency, the city government had previously requested PHP3 billion from DepEd in October last year for 45 major projects, each requiring more than PHP40 million. The approval and availability of the budget remain pending, but securing funds for these projects has been prioritized.

Iloilo City faces a shortage of 521 classrooms, impacting the 75,000 students enrolled across 66 public elementary and secondary schools. Due to this shortage, schools have implemented alternative learning methods such as shortened class hours, blended learning, and half-day classes. Despite awaiting DepEd's response, the city government has already set aside approximately PHP200 million in its 2026 budget to support school infrastructure needs.

During a regular session on Tuesday, the city council authorized Mayor Raisa Tre±as to sign the MOA with DepEd, marking a significant step forward in addressing the educational infrastructure challenges in Iloilo City.