Education Secretary Sonny Angara, on September 26, expressed his appreciation to the House of Representatives for their rapid endorsement of the Department of Education's (DepEd) budget for Fiscal Year 2025. The proposed budget totals PHP 793.17 billion, representing a significant commitment to advancing the country's educational situation.
A Unified Commitment to Education
Angara emphasized the lawmakers' dedication, particularly acknowledging Speaker Martin Romualdez and Rep. Maria Carmen Zamora, in their collective efforts to enhance the education system. He remarked, “This budget embodies our mutual dedication to unlocking the full potential of every Filipino learner.” The collaborative nature of this support highlights the vital role of bipartisan efforts in addressing the challenges faced by the education sector.
Major Funding for Educational Initiatives
The budget proposal includes essential funding for various educational programs. Key allocations will support elementary and secondary school operations, teacher recruitment and training, as well as government assistance programs. Moreover, significant resources will be directed towards building classrooms, acquiring textbooks, and advancing the DepEd computerization initiative. Angara also pointed out the importance of feeding programs designed to address students’ nutritional needs and enhance their learning experiences.
Alignment with National Priorities
According to Angara, the budget for the upcoming year is in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aimed at improving teacher welfare and ensuring high-quality education for all learners in the Philippines. In addition to core DepEd programs, the budget also includes provisions for various attached agencies, such as the National Book Development Board, National Council for Children’s Television, National Museum, Philippine High School for the Arts, Early Childhood Care and Development Council, and the National Academy of Sports. This comprehensive strategy underscores a commitment to supporting diverse aspects of education and cultural enrichment in the country.
