The Senate signaled full alignment on Monday as several lawmakers rallied behind the Department of Education’s (DepEd) proposed P1.044-trillion budget for 2026, positioned as the largest allocation for education in Philippine history. The move underscores a shared commitment to rebooting the country’s learning ecosystem and driving long-term value creation for future generations.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate committee on finance, led the charge in defending the proposal during a nearly three-hour plenary discussion. He stressed that the substantial allocation is designed to operationalize a renewed strategy for national learning outcomes.
Senator Bam Aquino, head of the Senate committee on basic education, echoed this forward-facing stance. He described the 2026 budget as a strategic inflection point: a chance to rebuild trust in the system and re-anchor it on foundational best practices. “This is the start,” he said, signaling confidence in DepEd’s transformation journey.
Under the stewardship of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, senators expressed optimism that the massive investment will catalyze tangible improvements. Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri emphasized that the expanded fiscal space will accelerate classroom construction, enhance compensation structures for teachers and tutors, and ensure learners across regions gain access to quality instructional materials. He applauded Angara’s “foundational work,” saying it paved the way for securing an unprecedented education budget.
Senator Pia Cayetano also lauded Angara’s leadership, noting that his familiarity with longstanding education gaps allowed DepEd to quickly operationalize the recommendations of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II). She described the agency’s responsiveness as both “heartwarming” and strategically aligned with national priorities.
DepEd’s roadmap for 2026 includes several key initiatives already in motion, such as a streamlined Senior High School curriculum, stronger TESDA-aligned certifications for tech-voc strands, and the pilot rollout of a revamped SHS program. The department also expects to fast-track classroom construction using diversified building pathways in partnership with the Senate.
To address critical pain points, DepEd confirmed plans to eliminate the nationwide teacher shortage through expanded hiring next year, broaden digital connectivity for underserved schools, and deploy 10,000 counselor associates to reinforce mental health and anti-bullying programs.
Angara expressed gratitude for the Senate’s support, positioning it as a cross-sector commitment to restoring the competitiveness of basic education. He said the strong endorsement reflects a nationwide focus on educational recovery and long-term system resilience.