Butuan city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on local government units (LGUs) to expedite the construction of classrooms and ensure adherence to quality standards, emphasizing the importance of avoiding substandard work that could jeopardize student safety. This announcement comes as a memorandum of agreement is set to be signed with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which will allow direct funding to LGUs for classroom construction.

According to Philippines News Agency, during an event at the Butuan Sports Complex in Libertad, Butuan City, President Marcos highlighted the need to reform the existing system due to delays in the DPWH's processing of necessary permits and documentation for school buildings. He explained that unlike the current process where the DepEd's budget is routed through the DPWH, the new system will enable capable LGUs to receive funds directly to construct schools.

President Marcos expressed his trust in local chief executives, asserting that they will be under scrutiny to prevent ghost projects or substandard work. This initiative aims to speed up classroom construction nationwide while ensuring local-level accountability and quality. Approximately 2,370 classrooms are planned for construction through collaboration between DepEd, DPWH, and LGUs, with around 2,000 expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2026, as stated by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro.

Marcos reiterated his commitment to prioritizing education throughout his term. He also pledged to continue providing necessary equipment, such as computers and Starlink units, to improve connectivity in schools, thereby ensuring that students have access to modern learning resources.