Education Sector Receives Historic 4% GDP Allocation
Education Secretary Sonny Angara expressed deep gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for the unprecedented allocation of P1.224 trillion for the education sector in the proposed FY 2026 national budget. This marks the first time the Philippines has dedicated 4% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to education, aligning with UNESCO standards.
According to officials, the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP) submitted to Congress designates the largest share to the Department of Education (DepEd), amounting to P928.52 billion. State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) will be allocated P134.99 billion, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) P34 billion, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) P20.24 billion. This historic 4% GDP allocation signifies the government’s strong commitment to uplifting education nationwide.
Secretary Angara Highlights Education as Top Priority
“Nagpapasalamat tayo sa ating mahal na Pangulo dahil, sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon, compliant sa UNESCO standards ang budget ng edukasyon. Patunay ito na nasa pinakamataas na prayoridad ni PBBM ang edukasyon ng ating bansa,” Angara remarked, emphasizing the importance of this milestone.
He further noted, “This landmark move is not only an investment in education—it is an investment in the future of our learners, ensuring they receive the highest quality of education possible.” Community members and education advocates welcomed the announcement, recognizing its potential to transform learning outcomes.
Significant Budget Increases to Support Key Programs
The proposed DepEd budget reflects an 18.9% increase compared to the FY 2025 General Appropriations Act. Approximately P115.4 billion will support crucial initiatives such as school operations, the Senior High School Voucher Program, and the School-Based Feeding Program.
Efforts to address classroom shortages continue, with P41.6 billion earmarked for the construction, repair, and rehabilitation of classrooms and facilities through the Basic Education Facilities Fund. This funding aims to create a more conducive learning environment for millions of students.
Strengthening Workforce and Advancing Digital Learning
To enhance support for teachers, DepEd plans to allocate P15.4 billion for additional plantilla positions, including Project Development Officers and Administrative Officers. This move aims to improve administrative efficiency and bolster educational delivery.
Moreover, P13.8 billion will fund the DepEd Computerization Program, accelerating the integration of digital technologies in classrooms to support modern learning methodologies. Local leaders noted that these investments will help bridge the digital divide and prepare students for the demands of the 21st century.
Funding for Attached Agencies and Cultural Programs
Aside from DepEd, attached agencies will also benefit from the proposed budget. Allocations include P840.9 million for the National Museum of the Philippines, P251.1 million for the National Academy of Sports, and P207.5 million for the Teacher Education Council. The Philippine High School for the Arts is set to receive P160.7 million, while the National Book Development Board and National Council for Children’s Television are allocated P156.6 million and P72.6 million, respectively.
Officials highlighted that these funds will support the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of creative arts alongside academic excellence.
Upcoming Budget Deliberations
Secretary Angara and DepEd officials are preparing to defend the proposed 2026 budget in the coming weeks, beginning with committee-level hearings in the House of Representatives. Sources said the department will emphasize the importance of sustaining the historic 4% GDP allocation to ensure continuous improvements in education quality and accessibility.
As the budget process unfolds, community members and education stakeholders remain hopeful that this landmark funding will pave the way for a brighter future for Filipino learners.
For more news and updates on education funding, visit Filipinokami.com.
