# Senate Committee on Finance: DepEd and attached agencies - October 16, 2026 — Source-Linked Digest

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFFCWNdWggs

AI-assisted working draft. AI can make errors. Always verify consequential interpretations and wording against the cited transcript and official video.

## At a glance

- **Funding and budget choices:** Senators sought stronger funding for learning recovery, feeding, staffing and school safety. Officials were asked to submit costings, delivery targets and program details before plenary.

- **Classrooms and school facilities:** Members pressed for construction timelines, transparent project tracking, and workable delivery through national and local partners. Officials described procurement barriers and agreed to return with updates.

- **Feeding and learning recovery:** The hearing covered meal coverage, cost assumptions, implementation and expansion, alongside tutoring, learning materials, and recovery programs.

- **Student support and inclusion:** Members raised mental health, school safety, special-needs education, diagnostic access, teacher capacity, and support for students with particular interests. Officials described workforce and coordination limits, with follow-up work proposed.

- **Attached agencies and committee action:** Attached agencies described additional program needs. At the close, the committee moved the Department and attached agency budgets forward for plenary action and deemed them submitted; this did not settle individual increases or the final appropriation.

Reading note: Budget figures retain their stated fiscal year, scope and category. Agency requests, senators' restoration proposals and committee-level advancement for plenary action are distinct from final appropriations. Follow the citations to the reviewed transcript and official source.

## Budget proposal comparisons

### FY2027 DepEd and attached-agency budget presentation

PHP 967.2 billion for Department of Education (DepEd) proper and PHP 969.79 billion including its attached agencies were the FY2027 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) totals presented by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara. He said the combined amount was PHP 6.17 billion below the National Expenditure Program (NEP). The presentation did not give an absolute NEP total on that coverage or the original submission to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). Comparable principal NEP and original-request totals for the attached agencies were not read out; their later additional requests appear in the agency accounts below.

[01:17:16 · asr-000991](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000991) · [01:17:22 · asr-000992](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000992) · [01:17:26 · asr-000993](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000993) · [01:17:38 · asr-000999](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000999) · [01:17:40 · asr-001000](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001000) · [01:17:44 · asr-001001](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001001)

### Later additional needs for DepEd and attached agencies

PHP 147.9 billion was Angara's later additional-needs list for DepEd and its attached agencies. It was an augmentation wish list, distinct from the original submission to DBM.

[01:35:33 · asr-001281](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001281)

## Education sector budget

### Education-wide funding

For education as a whole, Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" Aquino IV, chair of Senate Finance Committee Subcommittee B, hoped funding could return to 4% of gross domestic product (GDP) and said the committee's current computation fell short. He sought his colleagues' support for adequate education funding and said education should serve all Filipino children without becoming politicized.

[00:39:13 · asr-000353](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000353) · [00:39:15 · asr-000354](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000354) · [00:39:17 · asr-000355](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000355) · [00:39:27 · asr-000360](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000360)

### Education-sector funding and spending capacity

About PHP 1.3 trillion, or 4.36% of gross domestic product (GDP), was allocated to the education sector in 2026, Senator Sherwin "Win" T. Gatchalian said. He placed this within the 4-6% benchmark he cited and identified the capacity to spend the allocation effectively as a central challenge.

[00:45:31 · asr-000446](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000446) · [00:45:37 · asr-000447](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000447) · [00:45:42 · asr-000448](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000448) · [00:45:55 · asr-000450](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000450)

### Education funding shares

Senator Alan Peter S. Cayetano, the Minority Floor Leader, cited education funding at about 4% of gross domestic product (GDP) in FY2026 and described it as a whole-of-government effort. His slide placed the Department of Education (DepEd) at 3.3% of GDP and the education sector at 4% when the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and state universities and colleges (SUCs) were included.

[00:57:19 · asr-000600](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000600) · [00:57:28 · asr-000601](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000601) · [00:57:30 · asr-000602](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000602) · [00:58:19 · asr-000621](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000621) · [00:58:21 · asr-000622](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000622) · [00:58:23 · asr-000623](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000623) · [00:58:13 · asr-000619](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000619) · [00:58:17 · asr-000620](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000620)

## Department of Education budget

### Classroom construction and backlog

The Department of Education (DepEd) 2026 classroom acceleration program had a PHP 68 billion budget, according to Aquino, chair of Senate Finance Committee Subcommittee B; he described it as the largest school-infrastructure budget in Philippine history. Aquino asked where the classroom backlog stood, recalling that it was 165,000 classrooms when he first entered the Senate, and sought a catch-up plan from DepEd and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). He asked how the local government unit (LGU)-based, DPWH-led, and public-private partnership (PPP) construction approaches were progressing and when students could expect classrooms.

[00:34:11 · asr-000202](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000202) · [00:34:31 · asr-000212](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000212) · [00:34:49 · asr-000221](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000221)

### Expanded school feeding

For the FY2026 feeding program, Aquino cited PHP 27 billion; for the FY2027 proposal under discussion, he said the NEP and General Appropriations Bill (GAB) figure was PHP 11 billion. He said the FY2027 figure did not yet include the planned universal expansion through Grade 3; he described Kinder and Grade 1 as universally covered in 2026. Aquino said the meal rate had been about PHP 22 to PHP 25 per meal and that DepEd recommended PHP 35 per meal. He supported adjusting the rate to current food prices, while warning that a higher per-meal cost could reduce the number of children served, and asked how the expansion would be funded.

[00:35:51 · asr-000252](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000252) · [00:35:53 · asr-000253](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000253) · [00:35:59 · asr-000256](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000256) · [00:36:43 · asr-000278](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000278) · [00:36:45 · asr-000279](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000279) · [00:37:25 · asr-000299](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000299) · [00:37:27 · asr-000300](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000300) · [00:35:47 · asr-000250](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000250) · [00:36:39 · asr-000276](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000276) · [00:37:29 · asr-000301](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000301)

### School Safety Act funding

For the following year, Aquino asked whether the School Safety Act's implementation costs would be adequately funded.

[00:38:45 · asr-000339](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000339) · [00:38:49 · asr-000341](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000341)

### Department of Education budget changes and review priorities

A PHP 6 billion reduction in the House version of the proposed FY2027 Department of Education (DepEd) budget was singled out by Senator Joseph Victor "JV" G. Ejercito for scrutiny. He asked how reductions in computerization, basic education facilities, teacher development and foreign-assisted projects would affect schools and learners, which commitments could still be delivered, and where funds should be restored or increased.

Ejercito said the deliberations must test both funding adequacy and DepEd's capacity to deliver concrete results; he expressed willingness to find funding where necessary.

[00:43:02 · asr-000410](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000410) · [00:44:05 · asr-000422](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000422) · [00:44:24 · asr-000427](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000427)

### Learning recovery funding

Gatchalian said he understood that the ARAL learning recovery program had not been funded for 2027. Citing improved literacy and numeracy, he committed to support funding that would sustain its gains through the 2027 budget.

[00:46:55 · asr-000466](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000466) · [00:47:04 · asr-000467](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000467) · [00:47:29 · asr-000471](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000471) · [00:47:35 · asr-000472](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000472)

### School security and computerization funding

Senator Erwin Tulfo asked which Department of Education (DepEd) programs and funds would strengthen school security, emergency response and psychosocial support, prevent violence, and provide computer equipment in classrooms. Aquino said classrooms and school safety were shared priorities and noted that the House had cut the computerization budget.

[00:55:19 · asr-000573](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000573) · [00:55:25 · asr-000574](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000574) · [00:56:13 · asr-000584](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000584) · [00:56:22 · asr-000586](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000586)

### DepEd comparison and restoration proposal

PHP 916 billion in the FY2027 NEP and PHP 910 billion in the GAB were the DepEd figures Alan Cayetano cited, compared with PHP 961 billion in the FY2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA). These slide figures differed from the department's presentation totals; their coverage was not reconciled during the hearing.

Alan Cayetano asked where to find the roughly PHP 50 billion he said was missing from DepEd and where additional funds were most needed. He wanted at least PHP 962 billion or PHP 963 billion for the department and later hoped for an increase of PHP 50 billion to PHP 60 billion.

[00:58:45 · asr-000630](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000630) · [00:58:48 · asr-000631](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000631) · [00:58:51 · asr-000632](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000632) · [00:58:53 · asr-000633](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000633) · [00:59:02 · asr-000637](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000637) · [00:59:14 · asr-000643](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000643) · [00:59:18 · asr-000644](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000644) · [01:00:19 · asr-000672](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000672) · [01:08:04 · asr-000809](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000809)

### School-based feeding allocation

For school-based feeding, Alan Cayetano cited PHP 25 billion for FY2026 and PHP 11.43 billion in the FY2027 GAB. He said he would leave detailed discussion of the figures to Aquino, who had said he would cover the issue, then raised the concern that a reduced feeding allocation could worsen stunting.

[01:01:39 · asr-000693](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000693) · [01:01:46 · asr-000694](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000694) · [01:01:53 · asr-000696](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000696)

### K-12 funding choices

Alan Cayetano said fully funding K-12 might require an additional PHP 500 billion and asked where that money could come from. He floated temporarily removing a year from the sequence, shifting to K-11 or K-10, and concentrating support where it was most needed. He said post-pandemic spending had fallen behind, including for classrooms, urged a major change in approach, and challenged the committee to improve education substantially with limited funds.

[01:02:44 · asr-000713](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000713) · [01:02:48 · asr-000714](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000714) · [01:02:55 · asr-000717](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000717) · [01:08:15 · asr-000813](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000813)

### New-school packages for crowded areas

Alan Cayetano suggested that building new schools could be faster than replacing existing school buildings. He asked DepEd to consider offering local government units (LGUs) a lump-sum package for a new school, giving PHP 100 million or PHP 500 million as possible package sizes and PHP 200 million as an example tied to a minimum classroom output. Under his proposal, LGUs would find the land, clear it, and build; he said new schools were needed in growing areas including Central Luzon, Metro Manila, and CALABARZON.

[01:03:55 · asr-000741](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000741) · [01:03:57 · asr-000742](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000742) · [01:04:03 · asr-000743](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000743) · [01:04:25 · asr-000747](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000747)

### 2026 budget utilization

PHP 1.01 trillion was DepEd's FY2026 allotment, Angara reported. As of September 15, the obligation rate was 54.36% and disbursements were 91.2% of obligations.

[01:16:56 · asr-000986](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000986) · [01:17:00 · asr-000988](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000988) · [01:17:07 · asr-000989](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000989) · [01:17:16 · asr-000991](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000991) · [01:17:22 · asr-000992](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000992) · [01:17:40 · asr-001000](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001000) · [01:17:44 · asr-001001](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001001) · [01:17:56 · asr-001006](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001006) · [01:18:07 · asr-001008](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001008)

### 2027 proposed program lines

Angara's GAB highlights included PHP 6.4 billion for textbooks and instructional materials, a PHP 9.4 billion loan for learning-upgrade support, and PHP 2.78 billion for inclusive education programs, including special needs education (SNED), Indigenous Peoples Education (IPED), madrasa and multi-grade education. He listed PHP 13.4 billion for 3,800 new classrooms and PHP 7.3 billion for repairs to 11,000 classrooms. Information and communications technology solutions and capacity building were allocated PHP 2.6 billion, with a PHP 3.1 billion cut also reported. The presentation included a House addition for school security guards, with the amount clarified in the later security-funding exchange. For learner support, he said kindergarten meals were reduced to PHP 11.4 billion, voucher grantees were budgeted PHP 40 billion, including a PHP 1.9 billion House addition for the K-6 voucher expansion, and new school-counselor associate and school division office (SDO) counselor positions received PHP 801 million under the Mental Health in Basic Education Law. He also said the expanded career-progression program could promote 135,000 personnel.

[01:19:12 · asr-001028](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001028) · [01:19:26 · asr-001032](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001032) · [01:19:46 · asr-001033](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001033) · [01:20:07 · asr-001034](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001034) · [01:20:16 · asr-001036](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001036) · [01:20:25 · asr-001037](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001037) · [01:20:46 · asr-001039](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001039)

### School feeding funding, reach and delivery

For the fiscal-year 2027 GAB, the school-based feeding program had PHP 11.4 billion for meals priced at PHP 25 each for 3.7 million learners over 120 days, covering universal kindergarten, wasted and severely wasted pupils in Grades 1-6, and adolescent and pregnant learners. Angara presented a 2024-25 impact comparison: 1.73 million children classified as wasted or severely wasted before feeding versus 680,000 afterward, alongside a reported increase of 1.2 million beneficiaries from 3.4 million to 4.64 million. For a more ambitious scenario, he said PHP 30 per meal for 200 days would require an additional PHP 46.6 billion; this was a scenario, not an adopted increase.

[01:21:05 · asr-001042](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001042) · [01:21:28 · asr-001045](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001045) · [01:21:37 · asr-001046](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001046) · [01:22:16 · asr-001054](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001054) · [01:23:11 · asr-001069](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001069) · [01:23:15 · asr-001070](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001070) · [01:23:19 · asr-001071](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001071) · [01:23:27 · asr-001073](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001073) · [01:24:00 · asr-001082](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001082) · [01:24:11 · asr-001084](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001084)

### Infrastructure budget and classroom pipeline

Angara said the fiscal-year 2026 infrastructure budget was PHP 89.5 billion, including PHP 65.9 billion for new construction and PHP 7.7 billion for repairs; the remaining listed work included furniture, quick-response and completion projects, mid-rise buildings, Gabaldon restorations, library hubs, health facilities, inclusive-learning centers and alternative learning spaces. In the classroom pipeline he described 6,000 Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-led classrooms, 10,671 local-government-led classrooms representing PHP 37 billion under 437 memoranda of agreement, 515 last-mile classrooms for PHP 3 billion, and 140 DepEd-acquired classrooms, totaling 18,950 new classrooms. Angara also reported a first transfer of PHP 3.75 billion to local government units for 2,500 classrooms. He said about 60% had been obligated. He reported that the pipeline covered 81 provinces, 127 cities and 229 municipalities. Aquino clarified that the later 91% figure referred to municipalities where there was at least one new or repaired classroom, Gabaldon building, alternative-learning center or inclusive-learning center, rather than new construction alone.

[01:27:22 · asr-001131](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001131) · [01:27:26 · asr-001132](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001132) · [01:27:30 · asr-001133](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001133) · [01:28:03 · asr-001141](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001141) · [01:28:15 · asr-001144](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001144) · [01:28:23 · asr-001145](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001145) · [01:28:36 · asr-001147](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001147) · [01:28:40 · asr-001148](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001148) · [01:28:43 · asr-001149](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001149) · [01:28:50 · asr-001151](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001151) · [01:29:13 · asr-001157](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001157) · [01:29:36 · asr-001161](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001161) · [01:29:43 · asr-001162](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001162) · [01:29:56 · asr-001165](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001165) · [01:30:06 · asr-001170](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001170) · [01:29:02 · asr-001154](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001154) · [01:29:08 · asr-001155](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001155)

### Classroom completion, timelines and 2027 planning

Angara said 23,000 classrooms were completed by October, with work beginning as early as 2022 and funding spread across several years; the 2025 completion count had been under 200. Angara said classroom funding in 2020-21 had been very limited and that classroom funds were redirected to relief during the pandemic. He said validation, bidding and construction can take two to three years, while temporary learning-continuity spaces could be erected in one to two months and permanent buildings could take at least one to two years. Aquino used the 23,000 completions to update the historical 165,000-room gap to around 142,000 and asked for a transparent list and completion tracker. Angara said 97-98% of the classroom projects then under discussion were identified at different stages, from groundbreaking to final designs; the committee requested a schedule update by plenary, and Angara agreed to provide an estimate. He said roughly PHP 4 billion remained to be accounted for and that a reserve was being prepared for local-government cost adjustments.

Aquino had earlier referred to PHP 65.4 billion on the classroom slide and requested a project list. He later separately referred to PHP 68 billion in 2026 classroom funding as remaining live in 2027 and asked what share would be completed the following year. Angara said the department would provide an estimate. For the 2027 classroom allocation, Aquino cited PHP 30 billion and asked whether the existing project data could speed identification and procurement. Angara said early procurement depended on the amount remaining stable; in 2025 the amount changed at the bicameral conference and disrupted early procurement. He advised against locking every site by school because land or legal issues could strand funds; instead, he suggested general priorities such as last-mile schools, double or triple shifts and the most congested schools, with some flexibility. DBM Director Vivien V. Labastilla agreed.

[01:43:54 · asr-001386](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001386) · [01:44:09 · asr-001388](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001388) · [01:44:14 · asr-001390](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001390) · [01:44:41 · asr-001404](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001404) · [01:46:23 · asr-001442](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001442) · [01:46:30 · asr-001444](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001444) · [01:46:39 · asr-001445](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001445) · [01:30:38 · asr-001176](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001176) · [01:31:07 · asr-001180](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001180) · [01:34:01 · asr-001246](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001246) · [01:34:08 · asr-001248](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001248) · [01:34:10 · asr-001249](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001249) · [01:33:15 · asr-001232](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001232) · [01:56:34 · asr-001658](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001658) · [01:56:57 · asr-001665](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001665) · [01:57:54 · asr-001687](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001687) · [01:58:52 · asr-001703](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001703) · [01:59:46 · asr-001720](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001720) · [01:45:20 · asr-001424](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001424) · [01:33:48 · asr-001241](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001241)

### Additional DepEd requests and program needs

In the later additional-needs list, Angara said the ARAL learning-recovery program lacked the requested funding and DepEd was asking for PHP 15.6 billion. The listed items included PHP 1.09 billion for teacher-overload honoraria, PHP 1.75 billion to train DepEd tutors, PHP 928 million for external tutors, PHP 4.6 billion for ARAL materials, PHP 1.2 billion for a summer program, PHP 6 billion for learning-recovery and remediation consultation, PHP 94 million for program management and PHP 50 million for the Bayang Bumabasa Initiative. He also listed PHP 52.1 billion for teacher and project-development-officer support, without a clear breakdown in this passage.

Angara separately requested an additional PHP 16 billion for feeding to broaden Key Stage 1 coverage and PHP 3.5 billion for vouchers; he said the House had granted PHP 1.9 billion for K-6 voucher expansion. Other learner-support programs, including sports, Palarong Pambansa, mental health and guidance counseling, were listed at PHP 13 billion. He said the education center for artificial intelligence (AI) research (e-care) remained unfunded and requested funding without stating an amount. DepEd also sought more funding for security guards, metal detectors and perimeter fencing, without stating an amount.

[01:35:06 · asr-001270](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001270) · [01:35:11 · asr-001271](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001271) · [01:35:23 · asr-001276](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001276) · [01:35:27 · asr-001278](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001278) · [01:34:52 · asr-001263](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001263) · [01:35:33 · asr-001281](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001281) · [01:35:38 · asr-001282](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001282) · [01:35:41 · asr-001283](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001283) · [01:35:46 · asr-001284](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001284) · [01:36:05 · asr-001290](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001290) · [01:36:08 · asr-001291](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001291) · [01:36:15 · asr-001292](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001292) · [01:36:19 · asr-001293](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001293) · [01:36:23 · asr-001294](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001294) · [01:36:32 · asr-001297](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001297) · [01:36:37 · asr-001298](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001298) · [01:36:41 · asr-001299](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001299) · [01:38:15 · asr-001318](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001318) · [01:38:21 · asr-001319](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001319) · [01:38:26 · asr-001320](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001320) · [01:38:32 · asr-001321](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001321) · [01:38:48 · asr-001323](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001323) · [01:39:34 · asr-001335](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001335)

### DPWH classroom procurement and possible reallocation

Aquino asked for the status of the 2026 Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) classroom program. DPWH OIC Undersecretary Lara Marisse I. Esquibil said the PHP 21.4 billion agreement covered 6,000 classrooms; PHP 7 billion had been advertised for about 2,000 classrooms and PHP 1.87 billion covering 533 classrooms had bidders or was at post-qualification/award stage. DPWH reported failed bids because classroom costs were too low against market conditions and said it was repackaging and re-advertising packages, with two to three weeks of procurement time remaining and prospective bidders but no assurance of final bids.

Esquibil said PHP 7 billion had been transferred and PHP 13 billion had not. DBM Director Labastilla said a change remained possible while cash had not been transferred. Angara then clarified that the PHP 7 billion already in the Treasury could not be returned, leaving the PHP 13 billion balance for possible consideration. Aquino asked the executive to consider shifting the slower DPWH portion to DepEd- or local government unit (LGU)-led delivery if procurement did not move, and requested an update by plenary; Angara said he would comply with the committee's direction, but Aquino noted the final decision was executive. No reallocation was recorded in this exchange.

[01:47:57 · asr-001470](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001470) · [01:48:02 · asr-001471](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001471) · [01:48:08 · asr-001472](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001472) · [01:48:17 · asr-001474](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001474) · [01:49:12 · asr-001495](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001495) · [01:49:24 · asr-001500](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001500) · [01:49:35 · asr-001503](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001503) · [01:51:31 · asr-001544](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001544) · [01:51:38 · asr-001545](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001545) · [01:52:29 · asr-001563](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001563) · [01:52:33 · asr-001564](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001564) · [01:53:07 · asr-001576](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001576) · [01:53:22 · asr-001583](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001583) · [01:54:33 · asr-001604](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001604) · [01:54:41 · asr-001607](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001607) · [01:54:42 · asr-001608](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001608)

### Feeding rollout and proposed expansion

After the Chair asked whether the sharp increase in the current feeding budget had been absorbed and implemented under the General Appropriations Act (GAA), Assistant Secretary Roger B. Masapol said funds had reached division offices and all 220 divisions were implementing universal kindergarten and Grade 1 feeding, though procurement and start dates differed; he placed the start around August or September. He said the program also covered pregnant and young mothers. More than 200 central kitchens were planned after their designs were approved, supported by PHP 1 billion, to increase hot meals. Schools could combine food packs and hot meals; Masapol said last year 83% used only food packs, while many schools now chose a combination of two days of packs and three days of hot meals.

On extending meals through Grade 3, Masapol said it was feasible but required additional school staff so teachers would not have to manage feeding. He agreed to provide more detailed costing. Aquino said he intended to seek an increase from PHP 25 to PHP 35 per meal; Masapol said the GAB rate remained PHP 25. Aquino said well-implemented feeding could help mitigate learning gaps over three to six years, and Angara agreed.

[02:00:07 · asr-001729](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001729) · [02:01:01 · asr-001741](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001741) · [02:02:08 · asr-001759](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001759) · [02:02:38 · asr-001770](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001770) · [02:02:49 · asr-001774](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001774) · [02:02:59 · asr-001777](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001777) · [02:03:45 · asr-001795](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001795) · [02:05:11 · asr-001829](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001829) · [02:05:52 · asr-001848](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001848) · [02:05:54 · asr-001849](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001849) · [02:05:58 · asr-001850](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001850) · [02:06:45 · asr-001869](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001869)

### School-based feeding funds and utilization

Senator Francis Kiko Pangilinan asked about the FY2026 allocation of PHP 25 billion for the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) and an earlier mention of PHP 1 billion to establish about 200 central kitchens. Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara said 220 division offices were implementing units and hoped each school division office would have a central kitchen. Pangilinan asked whether operating the kitchens would require added personnel funding so teachers would not be overburdened; Angara confirmed that it would.

For the FY2026 allocation, DepEd Undersecretary for Finance Edson Byron K. Sy reported that 29.39% was obligated as of September 15, 2026. In response to Pangilinan's question about disbursement against obligations, Sy reported a 46.81% disbursement rate. He explained that the program follows the school year, began in August, and that timing affected the obligation rate. Sy confirmed PHP 7.6 billion obligated; Pangilinan applied the disbursement rate to that amount and calculated about PHP 3.5 billion disbursed against the PHP 25 billion allocation. Angara said he expected the full allocation to be used because billing falls midyear and funds carry over into the following year. Angara cited a 90% obligation rate in the prior year; Pangilinan said the prior-year allocation had been PHP 11 billion.

Pangilinan contrasted the FY2026 allocation with the FY2027 NEP-level amount of PHP 11 billion and asked what the reduction would mean for beneficiaries. Angara said DepEd had proposed a 200-day cycle, but the NEP level was restored; congressional insertions would have to be made again and might or might not return. Pangilinan said the increase should have been in the NEP and requested restoration and a plenary explanation of the impact on beneficiaries. DepEd was asked to address the impact at plenary.

[02:11:41 · asr-002069](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002069) · [02:11:57 · asr-002070](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002070) · [02:12:01 · asr-002071](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002071) · [02:12:36 · asr-002077](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002077) · [02:12:56 · asr-002079](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002079) · [02:13:01 · asr-002080](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002080) · [02:13:21 · asr-002082](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002082) · [02:13:35 · asr-002087](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002087) · [02:13:56 · asr-002093](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002093) · [02:13:58 · asr-002094](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002094) · [02:14:01 · asr-002096](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002096) · [02:14:06 · asr-002098](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002098) · [02:14:42 · asr-002110](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002110) · [02:15:00 · asr-002112](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002112) · [02:15:08 · asr-002114](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002114) · [02:16:01 · asr-002131](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002131) · [02:16:04 · asr-002132](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002132) · [02:18:57 · asr-002188](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002188) · [02:14:04 · asr-002097](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002097)

### Sagipsaka procurement expenditure

Pangilinan asked why only 0.3% of school-based feeding food purchases had gone through Sagipsaka. Secretary Angara reported PHP 35.2 million in Sagipsaka procurement. Assistant Secretary Roger B. Masapol said the modality had been used in a limited number of localities, where its cost was PHP 35.2 million, and described that share as small. DepEd had begun nationwide orientations for school-based feeding coordinators and was preparing implementation guidance to broaden use.

[02:19:27 · asr-002198](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002198) · [02:19:37 · asr-002199](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002199) · [02:19:41 · asr-002200](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002200) · [02:20:15 · asr-002213](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002213) · [02:20:36 · asr-002215](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002215) · [02:20:57 · asr-002220](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002220)

### ARAL funding and line item

Tulfo cited what he described as a PHP 15.32 billion request for the ARAL Program, said its separate amount in the FY2027 NEP was zero, and said the FY2027 GAB included PHP 350 million. He asked what the program did and why it appeared to have no NEP funding. DepEd Undersecretary Carmela C. Oracion explained that ARAL provides remediation in reading, mathematics, and science under the ARAL Law. She said the law was unfunded, although DepEd had implemented reading support, continued it in summer, extended it to literacy and mathematics for the current school year, and was planning for science.

Tulfo read the law's Section 21, which directs initial costs to current DepEd appropriations and continuing costs to the annual GAA, and asked DBM Director Vivien V. Labastilla to review the zero. Labastilla said ARAL had no separate NEP line item because its funding was subsumed under the textbooks and other instructional materials PAP. When Tulfo asked how tutors would be paid, she said their time could be paid as overtime. Tulfo said the next DepEd budget submission should account for tutor compensation. DBM did not quantify the amount embedded in other line items during this exchange.

[02:25:36 · asr-002287](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002287) · [02:25:40 · asr-002288](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002288) · [02:25:48 · asr-002290](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002290) · [02:26:34 · asr-002301](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002301) · [02:29:27 · asr-002361](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002361) · [02:30:46 · asr-002398](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002398) · [02:30:50 · asr-002400](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002400) · [02:31:23 · asr-002416](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002416)

### Teacher computerization and laptops

Tulfo said the FY2027 NEP computerization amount had been reduced; the exchange did not clearly specify the units for the two figures. He asked whether the program was meant to provide a laptop to every teacher. Secretary Sonny Angara said the goal was to reach more than 800,000 teachers and that 280,000 laptops were coming, a substantial share of the teacher population; he hoped procurement would continue because teachers had come to expect laptops. Tulfo said teachers he knew in Palawan had taken GSIS loans to buy laptops and said the gap needed attention.

[02:31:49 · asr-002430](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002430) · [02:31:52 · asr-002431](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002431) · [02:32:03 · asr-002437](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002437) · [02:32:19 · asr-002445](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002445) · [02:32:24 · asr-002447](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002447) · [02:32:43 · asr-002456](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002456)

### Learner support and mental health

Tulfo cited PHP 3.2 billion under the NEP and a PHP 1.39 billion Learner Support Program amount, asking what it covered for child protection. Angara said the program was a broad funding rubric for mental health, reproductive health, anti-bullying, and related policies under different laws. He cited 400 people needing psychological first aid in Tacloban on the first day, and said DepEd lacked capacity because some personnel were not trained. He also described a shortage of guidance counselors and said schools could use guidance-counselor associates or school-counselor associates with appropriate training.

[02:33:02 · asr-002466](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002466) · [02:33:04 · asr-002467](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002467) · [02:33:36 · asr-002481](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002481) · [02:34:12 · asr-002499](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002499)

### School electrification

Angara said 614 public schools, or 1.11%, had no electricity and that an annual budget supported electrification. For 2026, he said the electrification budget had moved to the National Electrification Administration (NEA). Tulfo asked whether NEA was now in charge.

[02:34:26 · asr-002506](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002506) · [02:34:29 · asr-002507](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002507) · [02:34:36 · asr-002510](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002510) · [02:34:43 · asr-002514](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002514)

### School connectivity and operating costs

Asked about free internet for public schools, Angara said most schools had some connectivity and 277 had no internet at all, referring to Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) data; he said signal quality varied and could be limited to a principal's office or faculty room rather than a usable school computer lab. Chair Paolo Benigno "Bam" Aquino IV clarified that many schools paid for internet through DepEd's maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE) rather than DICT's free-internet program, which he estimated reached less than 20% of public schools. Angara agreed that DICT Wi-Fi spots were sometimes only in or near schools and confirmed that many schools paid for their own service; he said the recurring monthly cost, especially for Starlink, was burdensome. Tulfo said he had received reports of schools listed as connected despite principals having to search outside for a signal.

[02:35:06 · asr-002526](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002526) · [02:35:10 · asr-002527](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002527) · [02:35:12 · asr-002528](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002528) · [02:35:36 · asr-002540](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002540) · [02:35:50 · asr-002547](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002547) · [02:36:19 · asr-002562](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002562) · [02:37:02 · asr-002584](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002584) · [02:35:40 · asr-002542](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002542)

### Per-student education funding

Alan Cayetano used a comparison slide to question the gap in resources between Philippine Science High School (PSHS, which he called Pisay) and the Department of Education (DepEd). He cited a PHP 2.4 billion PSHS budget for 2025 alongside a PHP 734 billion DepEd budget figure. He said PSHS served about 10,000 to nearly 11,000 students, compared with 21 million in DepEd, and put spending at PHP 224,000 per PSHS student versus PHP 34,690 per DepEd student. Alan Cayetano acknowledged PSHS students are selected from top-performing elementary pupils and that other factors shape outcomes, but argued the scale of the funding and class-size differences matters: he cited a 30-to-1 ratio at PSHS versus 70 to 100 in DepEd classrooms and urged smarter, higher per-student investment in public schools.

Secretary Sonny Angara said DepEd's per-capita amount had increased incrementally from about PHP 27,000, PHP 29,000 or PHP 30,000 to around PHP 34,000. He credited formula changes that consider more factors, while describing the improvement as gradual and the remaining gap as substantial.

[02:40:54 · asr-002706](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002706) · [02:40:56 · asr-002707](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002707) · [02:43:13 · asr-002764](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002764) · [02:43:18 · asr-002766](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002766) · [02:43:19 · asr-002767](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002767) · [02:43:21 · asr-002768](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002768) · [02:43:23 · asr-002770](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002770) · [02:43:25 · asr-002771](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002771) · [02:43:37 · asr-002774](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002774) · [02:43:41 · asr-002775](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002775) · [02:43:45 · asr-002776](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002776) · [02:44:31 · asr-002797](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002797) · [02:44:35 · asr-002798](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002798) · [02:46:58 · asr-002839](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002839) · [02:47:50 · asr-002852](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002852) · [02:47:54 · asr-002853](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002853) · [02:48:27 · asr-002860](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002860)

### Technical-vocational certification costs

Angara said DepEd's technical-vocational high-school graduates previously lacked national certificates because certification carried a fee of PHP 1,500. He recalled that in 2023 or 2024 the government first paid for certification of Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL), now TechPro, graduates. The certification puts them on a par with graduates certified by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

[03:02:41 · asr-003120](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003120) · [03:02:43 · asr-003121](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003121) · [03:02:45 · asr-003122](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003122) · [03:02:46 · asr-003123](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003123) · [03:02:49 · asr-003124](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003124) · [03:03:09 · asr-003137](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003137)

### Private donations and education tax incentives

Angara suggested expanding the Adopt-a-School Law so private donors could support a wider range of needs, including early childhood development, computerization and teacher training, beyond classrooms and physical facilities. He pointed to the 150% tax deduction under the law as an incentive and said expanding the eligible menu could encourage more donations. Angara said he would work on Alan Cayetano's proposal.

[03:14:52 · asr-003678](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003678) · [03:14:54 · asr-003681](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003681) · [03:15:31 · asr-003702](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003702) · [03:15:33 · asr-003703](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003703) · [03:15:35 · asr-003704](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003704)

### School-feeding funding and implementation

Alan Cayetano said the chair would work with DepEd to restore the money needed for the feeding program; Angara said the Department would be glad to work with him, but no amount was named. Asked whether food procurement was handled as a whole or by school district, Angara said implementation had moved from the regional to the division level in 2024, now covering 221 school divisions. He said central kitchens had grown from 6 of about 200 to 58. For quality control, divisions require Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accreditation, manufacturer certification from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), and University of Santo Tomas (UST) certification; those requirements must be in bid specifications, and suppliers without them do not qualify.

[03:15:43 · asr-003708](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003708) · [03:15:49 · asr-003711](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003711) · [03:15:53 · asr-003713](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003713) · [03:16:07 · asr-003721](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003721) · [03:16:09 · asr-003722](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003722) · [03:16:18 · asr-003726](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003726) · [03:16:25 · asr-003730](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003730) · [03:16:27 · asr-003731](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003731) · [03:16:55 · asr-003745](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003745)

### Textbook procurement, delivery and workbooks

Gatchalian asked Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara whether the previous-year PHP 19 billion textbook allocation had brought the department closer to one book per learner. Angara reported 112 million textbooks delivered out of 171.2 million contracted, or 66%; Undersecretary Carmela C. Oracion said delivery remained late but expected the remaining grade-level and senior-high core-course books on the schedule she described, with next-year delivery targeted for April or May. She said procurement had shortened by using previously accredited books, opening the market to qualifying titles, combining printing and delivery in one contract, and procuring early. Oracion said DepEd had procured all 105 titles that year, compared with 27 of 88 over the prior ten years and 60 of 105 in school years 2024 and 2025.

For fiscal year 2027, Gatchalian cited the PHP 6.4 billion General Appropriations Bill (GAB) textbook line. Oracion said it would cover consumable kindergarten materials, learners with disabilities, replacements for lost or damaged books, and selected senior-high technical-professional courses; because the 105 titles were already procured, she said no new titles were needed for the coming school year. She confirmed workbooks were funded only for 2026 and agreed to submit a careful cost estimate for producing them for Grades 1-10; her current estimate was PHP 5.5 billion, not a stated 2027 appropriation.

[03:54:54 · asr-004761](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004761) · [03:54:59 · asr-004764](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004764) · [03:56:22 · asr-004816](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004816) · [03:56:43 · asr-004826](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004826) · [03:56:48 · asr-004828](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004828) · [03:57:00 · asr-004834](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004834) · [03:57:20 · asr-004843](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004843) · [03:58:27 · asr-004877](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004877) · [03:59:21 · asr-004904](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004904) · [03:59:29 · asr-004908](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004908) · [03:59:36 · asr-004911](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004911) · [04:00:14 · asr-004930](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004930) · [04:02:34 · asr-004971](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004971) · [04:02:54 · asr-004977](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004977) · [04:03:05 · asr-004980](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004980) · [04:05:08 · asr-005023](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005023) · [04:05:12 · asr-005024](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005024) · [03:55:01 · asr-004765](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004765) · [04:02:28 · asr-004970](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004970)

### ARAL funding, implementation and line-item proposal

Gatchalian said the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) program was showing gains, citing a DepEd figure above three million learners moved out of the struggling portion, and asked why its FY2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP) showed no dedicated line. He contrasted the roughly PHP 4 billion ARAL level in the FY2026 NEP with the PHP 8.9 billion FY2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA), which Angara confirmed reflected a congressional addition. Angara initially stated a PHP 15.9 billion request for the program; when asked for the minimum needed to avoid disrupting gains, he cited about PHP 8 billion, while later describing the full request as PHP 15 billion because it included food for tutors and teachers.

Angara said 2026 ARAL-related resources were embedded in existing lines: PHP 114.57 million for external tutors under basic education curriculum, PHP 313.97 million for textbooks and instructional materials, and PHP 1 billion for teaching overload. He described those as scattered components and cited PHP 8.9 billion as the 2026 total after Congress added funding. For 2027, DBM Budget and Management Bureau-F Director Vivien V. Labastilla said the program was subsumed under textbooks, instructional materials and basic-education curriculum rather than having a separate line; when Aquino asked for the specific item and total, she said she would check, but no quantified 2027 answer appears in this exchange. Angara said DepEd understood there was no additional ARAL funding and no existing base ARAL line in 2027, describing its program-specific amount as zero; the DBM embedded-funding claim remained unquantified.

Gatchalian proposed inserting a separate ARAL line item. Aquino asked DepEd to support carving out existing lines to reduce the amount of new funding required; Angara agreed. No vote or funding disposition is recorded in this round. Angara said teacher honoraria depended on meeting the six-hour teaching-overload requirement and said DepEd was considering counting peer-review and learning-action sessions toward it. He agreed to submit a breakdown of the tutors and learners the minimum amount could cover.

[04:05:17 · asr-005025](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005025) · [04:05:48 · asr-005031](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005031) · [04:06:30 · asr-005044](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005044) · [04:07:03 · asr-005053](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005053) · [04:07:47 · asr-005069](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005069) · [04:08:20 · asr-005079](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005079) · [04:08:27 · asr-005081](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005081) · [04:09:04 · asr-005093](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005093) · [04:09:30 · asr-005107](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005107) · [04:10:58 · asr-005142](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005142) · [04:11:03 · asr-005144](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005144) · [04:11:14 · asr-005147](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005147) · [04:11:22 · asr-005150](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005150) · [04:11:32 · asr-005156](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005156) · [04:13:09 · asr-005203](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005203) · [04:13:24 · asr-005212](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005212) · [04:13:57 · asr-005230](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005230) · [04:15:33 · asr-005271](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005271) · [04:15:40 · asr-005274](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005274) · [04:16:28 · asr-005286](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005286) · [04:16:59 · asr-005292](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005292) · [04:08:33 · asr-005082](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005082) · [04:06:51 · asr-005050](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005050) · [04:10:52 · asr-005139](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005139) · [04:11:01 · asr-005143](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005143) · [04:11:06 · asr-005145](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005145) · [04:11:29 · asr-005154](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005154) · [04:15:37 · asr-005272](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005272) · [04:15:44 · asr-005275](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005275)

### School counselor and division guidance staffing

Gatchalian asked about hiring for the 10,000 school counselor associate (SCA) positions funded for 2026. Angara reported 5,447 filled (54%) and 4,553 still in process, with all 10,000 expected to be hired by December. For fiscal year 2027, he said funding covered 1,800 additional SCA positions at PHP 519 million. On full guidance counselors assigned at the school-division level, Angara said DepEd was seeking Department of Budget and Management (DBM) permission to reconfigure existing guidance-counselor positions; he cited PHP 282 million for the division-level posts Gatchalian had asked about, associated with roughly 200 divisions. Gatchalian reiterated a one-to-one SCA-to-school goal; Angara described the requested position restructuring as still in process.

[04:19:05 · asr-005340](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005340) · [04:19:21 · asr-005343](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005343) · [04:19:41 · asr-005348](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005348) · [04:20:00 · asr-005352](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005352) · [04:20:05 · asr-005353](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005353) · [04:20:15 · asr-005355](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005355) · [04:20:24 · asr-005356](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005356) · [04:20:34 · asr-005360](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005360) · [04:21:42 · asr-005394](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005394) · [04:21:50 · asr-005398](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005398)

### Principal staffing and expanded career progression

Gatchalian cited an initial estimate that 55% of public schools, or 26,000 schools, lacked principals. DepEd Undersecretary Willy Cabral later put the share at about 45%, and separately reported roughly 23,000 schools without principal items out of 45,928 schools, with 22,000 having principals. He explained that some elementary head teachers counted as school heads without principal items. DepEd said 6,000 principal positions were created for 2026, with around 2,000 already hired and 914 teachers-in-charge converted to principal positions; 2,349 school heads had been promoted through expanded career progression as of September 30, 2026.

Cabral said DepEd had requested about 14,000 additional principal items, but no new 2027 positions were funded; he also referred to 10,000 principal positions for 2027. He estimated PHP 10.5 billion to fund more than 14,000 items. Cabral said eligible reclassifications might be covered under the PHP 12.09 billion expanded career progression allocation, which he said covered about 135,000 positions across three salary grades, but he could not estimate how many principals would qualify. The career-progression allocation covered a broader workforce, with no principal-specific share given.

[04:21:57 · asr-005399](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005399) · [04:22:09 · asr-005400](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005400) · [04:22:38 · asr-005407](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005407) · [04:22:54 · asr-005411](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005411) · [04:23:33 · asr-005437](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005437) · [04:23:58 · asr-005450](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005450) · [04:24:02 · asr-005452](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005452) · [04:25:06 · asr-005483](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005483) · [04:25:42 · asr-005501](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005501) · [04:26:24 · asr-005520](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005520) · [04:26:26 · asr-005521](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005521) · [04:26:52 · asr-005534](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005534) · [04:26:56 · asr-005536](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005536) · [04:27:10 · asr-005543](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005543) · [04:27:18 · asr-005547](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005547) · [04:27:22 · asr-005549](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005549) · [04:27:47 · asr-005562](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005562) · [04:27:58 · asr-005566](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005566) · [04:28:03 · asr-005568](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005568) · [04:28:07 · asr-005570](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005570) · [04:28:05 · asr-005569](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005569) · [04:26:54 · asr-005535](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005535)

### Classroom balances and DPWH procurement

Gatchalian asked how much of the classroom funding remained unobligated. Angara said about 40% of the PHP 65 billion classroom amount, or roughly PHP 24-25 billion, remained; he said DepEd kept a buffer because local-government units (LGUs) could seek cost adjustments and notices of award could differ from memoranda of agreement.

In a separate status exchange on the FY2026 Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) classroom program, Gatchalian referred to about PHP 21 billion in DepEd presentation funding for 6,000 classrooms. DPWH OIC Undersecretary Lara Marisse I. Esquibil said no disbursement had yet been made and procurement was underway; nearly PHP 2 billion was at award or post-qualification. She said PHP 7 billion had been transferred or released for advertising, with DPWH dependent on DepEd release of the obligation request (ORS); Gatchalian understood the remaining PHP 14 billion was still at DepEd and part of the PHP 24-25 billion balance. The exchange identified procurement timing and fund-transfer sequencing as constraints; it recorded no reallocation or appropriation decision.

[04:29:04 · asr-005584](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005584) · [04:29:13 · asr-005587](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005587) · [04:29:21 · asr-005591](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005591) · [04:29:55 · asr-005610](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005610) · [04:30:03 · asr-005613](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005613) · [04:30:30 · asr-005619](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005619) · [04:30:44 · asr-005626](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005626) · [04:30:51 · asr-005629](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005629) · [04:30:53 · asr-005630](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005630) · [04:30:57 · asr-005633](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005633) · [04:30:58 · asr-005634](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005634) · [04:31:13 · asr-005643](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005643) · [04:31:44 · asr-005657](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005657) · [04:31:54 · asr-005663](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005663) · [04:31:57 · asr-005665](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005665) · [04:32:00 · asr-005668](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005668) · [04:29:49 · asr-005607](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005607) · [04:30:39 · asr-005622](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005622)

### School MOOE for El Nino water and heat preparation

Aquino cited more than 100 municipalities that had declared an El Nino emergency and asked whether schools were preparing for water shortages and rising temperatures. Angara said the department was considering water containers for schools or classrooms to prevent dehydration, and said schools may need to send students home during extreme heat; schools can act at emergency levels, while local governments generally call off classes. He said water catchment systems and related measures would need to be covered through school MOOE, using available funds alongside security costs. Solar upgrades for lights and fans were described as a longer-term option. Aquino asked for an executive memo to teachers and principals on preparations, including water storage for sanitation and drinking; Angara agreed to issue guidance and review the drinking-water cost.

[04:50:51 · asr-006071](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006071) · [04:51:05 · asr-006073](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006073) · [04:51:15 · asr-006076](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006076) · [04:51:30 · asr-006079](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006079) · [04:53:58 · asr-006120](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006120)

### ARAL program funding request

Senator Joel Villanueva identified the Department of Education's (DepEd) ARAL program as his most pressing remaining budget concern, recalling an earlier PHP 8 billion request and saying the Senate would see what it could do. This exchange records his intention to help but no amount-level disposition or restoration decision.

[04:54:11 · asr-006125](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006125) · [04:54:28 · asr-006128](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006128) · [04:54:38 · asr-006130](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006130) · [04:54:46 · asr-006132](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006132)

### Staffing allocations and hiring needs

Villanueva asked DepEd to prioritize hiring and address shortages in overcrowded schools. DepEd Undersecretary Willy Cabral said its FY2027 computation was about 14,000 teaching positions plus another 14,000 positions for principals and school counselor associates. Cabral said DepEd could seek funding for principal positions from the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund (MPBF), and thought the target could be filled by the following year if there were an applicant pool and the funding was made available; he did not present this as assured funding.

Villanueva put the proposed FY2027 allocation for new school personnel positions at PHP 31.739 billion, down 25% from PHP 42.298 billion, and Cabral confirmed the figures. Villanueva also said this program's share of the total DepEd budget fell from 4.6% in FY2026 to 3.6% in FY2027. In response to his question about additional funding to address shortages, especially in overcrowded schools, Cabral estimated PHP 4.29 billion and Villanueva asked DepEd to submit its priority hiring targets and details. DepEd was asked to submit its hiring priorities.

[05:00:26 · asr-006220](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006220) · [05:00:38 · asr-006226](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006226) · [05:00:40 · asr-006227](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006227) · [05:00:42 · asr-006228](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006228) · [05:00:45 · asr-006230](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006230) · [05:00:53 · asr-006234](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006234) · [05:01:21 · asr-006248](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006248) · [05:01:43 · asr-006259](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006259) · [05:01:49 · asr-006262](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006262) · [05:01:51 · asr-006263](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006263) · [05:01:59 · asr-006268](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006268) · [05:02:08 · asr-006273](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006273) · [05:02:10 · asr-006274](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006274) · [05:02:12 · asr-006275](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006275) · [05:02:49 · asr-006293](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006293) · [05:02:59 · asr-006297](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006297) · [05:03:02 · asr-006298](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006298) · [05:03:07 · asr-006300](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006300)

### Last Mile classrooms and school repair backlog

Asked about FY2027 Last Mile construction for geographically isolated and disadvantaged schools, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara said the budget covered 131 classrooms and PHP 1.9 billion. Villanueva cited FY2025 Last Mile program obligation of 96.3% but disbursement of 21.2%, and asked DepEd to report on the gap.

Villanueva also asked about structural assessment and renovating rather than replacing usable buildings. Angara distinguished a 142,000-classroom construction shortage from about 160,000 classrooms needing repair; for the FY2027 budget he said 4,000 would be repaired.

[05:03:54 · asr-006325](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006325) · [05:04:08 · asr-006333](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006333) · [05:04:10 · asr-006334](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006334) · [05:04:23 · asr-006340](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006340) · [05:04:25 · asr-006341](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006341) · [05:04:29 · asr-006343](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006343) · [05:04:41 · asr-006347](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006347) · [05:04:47 · asr-006350](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006350) · [05:04:54 · asr-006354](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006354) · [05:05:50 · asr-006382](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006382) · [05:06:01 · asr-006388](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006388) · [05:06:18 · asr-006396](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006396) · [05:06:26 · asr-006400](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006400) · [05:06:33 · asr-006403](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006403) · [05:06:35 · asr-006405](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006405) · [05:06:39 · asr-006407](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006407)

### School security guard funding

Villanueva asked how much of DepEd's security-guard requirement was included in the proposed budget. He cited a reported nationwide need of PHP 8 billion and said proposed MOOE appeared to have fallen by PHP 33.7 billion, inviting correction; Angara's reply did not address the MOOE comparison. Angara said DepEd had presented its request to the House, which granted PHP 500 million for 1,667 security guards. He then specified that of PHP 8.6 billion requested, PHP 5.05 billion would fund 16,800 guards.

[05:08:31 · asr-006441](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006441) · [05:08:58 · asr-006444](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006444) · [05:09:07 · asr-006446](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006446) · [05:09:20 · asr-006448](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006448) · [05:09:29 · asr-006451](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006451) · [05:09:37 · asr-006452](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006452) · [05:09:46 · asr-006453](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006453) · [05:09:53 · asr-006454](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006454) · [05:09:55 · asr-006456](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006456) · [05:10:03 · asr-006457](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006457)

### Child protection budget line

Stairway Foundation Child Protection Specialist Ysrael C. Diloy said the child-protection budget line had fallen from an original PHP 80 million to PHP 40 million, but the budget stage for each amount was unclear. Aquino agreed the concern merited attention and suggested the funding might be carried under other items; the exchange recorded no clarification or budget decision.

[05:23:28 · asr-006630](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006630) · [05:23:31 · asr-006631](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006631) · [05:24:07 · asr-006642](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006642) · [05:24:09 · asr-006643](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006643)

## National Book Development Board budget

### Reading promotion request

The National Book Development Board (NBDB) requested an additional PHP 186.5 million for reading promotion, policy development, book fairs, research and advocacy.

[01:39:42 · asr-001338](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001338)

## National Council for Children's Television budget

### Children's television request

The National Council for Children's Television (NCCT) requested an additional PHP 61.8 million for child-friendly, educational and values-oriented television content.

[01:40:26 · asr-001345](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001345) · [01:40:36 · asr-001346](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001346)

## National Museum of the Philippines budget

### Museum access and digital transformation request

The National Museum of the Philippines requested an additional PHP 255 million for digital transformation, public access, museum engagement and component museums nationwide, citing the need to support its expanding branches.

[01:40:44 · asr-001347](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001347) · [01:40:56 · asr-001349](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001349)

## Philippine High School for the Arts budget

### Arts campus rehabilitation request

The Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) requested an additional PHP 161.5 million, largely for campus rehabilitation of buildings Angara described as deteriorating.

[01:41:02 · asr-001350](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001350) · [01:41:11 · asr-001352](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001352) · [01:41:38 · asr-001354](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001354)

## National Academy of Sports budget

### National Academy of Sports request

The National Academy of Sports (NAS) requested an additional PHP 580 million.

[01:41:43 · asr-001355](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001355)

### National Academy of Sports student-athlete meals

PHP 69 million in additional student-athlete food support was the appeal Senator Pia S. Cayetano put before the committee. National Academy of Sports (NAS) Deputy Executive Director Emil Arroyo confirmed a requested daily nutrition rate of PHP 900, compared with the PHP 250 NEP rate Pia Cayetano cited. She compared this with PHP 1,200 per day at the Philippine Sports Commission, and asked NAS to isolate its food component from the broader PHP 580 million additional request. The chair said suggested amendments would be collated for the main committee; the exchange did not approve this increase.

[03:18:19 · asr-003781](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003781) · [03:18:35 · asr-003788](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003788) · [03:18:41 · asr-003791](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003791) · [03:18:50 · asr-003795](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003795) · [03:19:33 · asr-003817](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003817) · [03:19:39 · asr-003820](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003820) · [03:50:15 · asr-004621](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004621) · [03:50:23 · asr-004624](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004624) · [03:50:25 · asr-004625](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004625) · [03:50:27 · asr-004626](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004626) · [03:50:30 · asr-004627](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004627) · [03:53:22 · asr-004718](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004718) · [03:19:38 · asr-003819](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003819)

## Teacher Education Council budget

### Teacher Education Council request

The Teacher Education Council (TEC) requested an additional PHP 498 million for salaries, teacher education, graduate scholarships and regional hubs under its mandate.

[01:42:15 · asr-001360](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001360) · [01:42:23 · asr-001361](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001361) · [01:42:26 · asr-001362](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001362)

## Department of the Interior and Local Government budget

### Early-childhood centers and local funding proposal

PHP 1 billion set aside at the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for early-childhood facilities was the funding Pia Cayetano wanted to ensure would reach underserved communities. She asked how to target it. Angara said the early childhood care and development (ECCD) Council still needed a complete geographic map of areas lacking centers, and that local government capacity varied. He said the Local Government Support Fund could support daycare centers, suggested starting with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the Zamboanga Peninsula because of poverty and low literacy, and expected more mapping by the next quarterly meeting. The discussion sought to secure use of the fund; it did not record a new appropriation.

[03:20:41 · asr-003850](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003850) · [03:20:53 · asr-003856](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003856) · [03:23:43 · asr-003937](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003937) · [03:24:25 · asr-003958](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003958) · [03:24:45 · asr-003968](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003968) · [03:24:27 · asr-003959](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003959)

## Agency presentation

### School investments in student and teacher experience

The prerecorded presentation video used student, parent and teacher testimonials to illustrate school changes: a voucher eased one family's financial burden; a new classroom and school internet supported learning; teachers described more time for teaching, professional growth and medical support; and families valued feeding, safety measures and timely learning materials. The video's speakers were not individually identified in the transcript.

[01:10:52 · asr-000880](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000880) · [01:10:56 · asr-000882](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000882) · [01:15:27 · asr-000961](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000961)

### School safety and student support

Angara described DepEd Order No. 006 on a safe and motivating learning environment, covering security measures such as CCTV cameras, metal detectors, fencing and guards, as well as mental-health and psychological support, sports and school clubs, and a national and regional telesafe hotline. He said DepEd had hired 5,400 school-counselor associates under the Mental Health in Basic Education Law. After three school-violence incidents in Tacloban, Zamboanga and South Cotabato, he reported that the injured learners had been discharged and that two learners were recognized by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines for preventing further loss of life. He called for more teachers and educators to be trained in mental-health awareness and psychological first aid, with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH) and private-sector partners assisting.

[01:24:47 · asr-001094](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001094) · [01:24:51 · asr-001095](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001095) · [01:25:29 · asr-001102](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001102) · [01:27:05 · asr-001126](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001126)

### Safety Act training and school-equipment priorities

Aquino asked whether training for parents, teachers and student leaders under the School Safety Act was underway. Angara said it was, with Stairway assisting; he described the Kaagapay program, originally focused on academic performance, as a way to strengthen family engagement and awareness of risks on social media after schools encountered organized violent groups. Aquino cited a 47% safety-equipment figure as of October 11 and asked what it measured, what denominator applied and how far schools were from the target. Angara said the department would prioritize based on risk assessment and agreed to provide clearer coverage figures so the committee could assess funding needs. No equipment total or target denominator was stated in this unit.

[02:06:59 · asr-001876](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001876) · [02:07:14 · asr-001883](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001883) · [02:07:35 · asr-001894](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001894) · [02:09:25 · asr-001957](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-001957) · [02:10:55 · asr-002017](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002017)

## Opening priorities

### 2026 utilization and learning priorities

Before turning to the FY2027 budget, Aquino asked how the FY2026 funds had been used, which programs had been implemented or had yet to meet their targets, and what needed to be corrected so each peso benefited students and teachers. He called for sustained funding, clear targets, and programs with concrete results, and said classrooms, school safety, and programs that directly support children's learning should take priority over projects that could be postponed.

[00:32:48 · asr-000161](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000161) · [00:32:59 · asr-000166](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000166) · [00:33:39 · asr-000186](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000186)

### School Safety Act

Aquino said the School Safety Act had passed the Senate but not the House, where counterparts had committed to accelerate its passage. He described it as a broader school-safety framework, beyond CCTV and metal detectors, and asked what DepEd would do about school violence.

[00:37:59 · asr-000316](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000316) · [00:38:03 · asr-000318](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000318) · [00:38:39 · asr-000336](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000336)

## Senator Joseph Victor "JV" G. Ejercito

### Basic education needs and learning progress

Ejercito framed a return to basics around safe classrooms, sufficient teachers, books and equipment, children arriving ready to learn, and literacy and numeracy. He called for clear answers on classroom construction, timely learning materials, teaching vacancies and learning recovery, while recognizing reported Philippine gains in reading, mathematics and science in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). He said the budget’s results should be felt in students’ learning and school conditions.

[00:41:17 · asr-000388](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000388) · [00:42:05 · asr-000398](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000398) · [00:42:26 · asr-000402](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000402) · [00:44:37 · asr-000431](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000431)

## Senator Sherwin "Win" T. Gatchalian

### Sustaining learning gains

Gatchalian congratulated the Department of Education (DepEd), led by Secretary Sonny Angara, on the reported improvement in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). He wanted to understand the gains and how to sustain them.

He also credited ARAL with improvement among 1.3 million students in Grades 1-10 and argued that the next challenge was to maintain the progress described for 2026.

[00:46:17 · asr-000455](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000455) · [00:46:40 · asr-000462](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000462) · [00:47:57 · asr-000477](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000477)

## Senator Pia S. Cayetano

### School health and gender equality

Pia Cayetano connected school health programs with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 on zero hunger and SDG 3 on good health and well-being. On SDG 5, gender equality, she said teen pregnancy disproportionately affects girls and called for greater effort to address it.

[00:48:58 · asr-000494](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000494) · [00:49:15 · asr-000498](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000498)

### Future-ready education and artificial intelligence

Pia Cayetano linked basic education to decent work and economic growth under SDG 8, and school safety to safe, resilient and sustainable cities and communities under SDG 11. She urged future-ready education and said artificial intelligence (AI) makes the need for a futures-thinking approach more concrete. She asked how AI could support teachers, planners, supervisors and principals without taking over children's lives. Alongside reading and mathematics, she emphasized critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication, saying these skills matter as AI threatens to take over jobs.

[00:49:31 · asr-000503](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000503) · [00:49:55 · asr-000508](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000508) · [00:50:55 · asr-000519](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000519)

### Early childhood education and local support

Pia Cayetano said early childhood education could improve and expressed concern about its official transfer to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), while acknowledging the practicality of the arrangement. She asked how the national government could help local government units (LGUs) with fewer resources and those that have resources but do not choose or understand the importance of early childhood education. Citing Taguig as a city that focuses resources on education, she referred to hiring teachers and contrasted that with daycare centers where staff are not necessarily teachers. She asked the Secretary for views and ideas and said she would return to listen.

[00:51:18 · asr-000522](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000522) · [00:51:29 · asr-000525](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000525) · [00:52:24 · asr-000535](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000535)

### Early learning, feeding, and where children need support

Pia Cayetano argued that falling overall birth rates do not remove the needs of poorer families and asked DepEd to track kindergarten preparedness by geographic area. Angara agreed that birth-rate data vary by income group and supported reproductive-health education. He described feeding responsibilities as divided among agencies, with children aged three to four under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and said coordination was uneven. He pointed to Gapan, where one barangay had three daycare centers, as an example of local policy choice.

[03:25:55 · asr-004002](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004002) · [03:26:19 · asr-004014](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004014) · [03:26:49 · asr-004029](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004029) · [03:28:07 · asr-004068](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004068) · [03:22:55 · asr-003917](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003917)

### Inclusive education and specialist support

Pia Cayetano asked about the timeline for implementing inclusive education and stressed that schools need more support for students with varied learning and developmental needs, especially while classrooms remain large. Angara said full implementation of the law's mandates for allied medical professions would take time because the workforce and training pipeline are insufficient. He described discussions with PhilHealth, DOH, and professional associations to secure geographically based service commitments, with DepEd allowing specialists to use inclusive learning resource centers for private practice with a possible DepEd stipend. Pia Cayetano supported a phased approach and the professionals' ability to earn outside income, while emphasizing more adult help in classrooms. Angara said the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is prioritizing scholarships for relevant programs, including guidance counselors.

[03:30:35 · asr-004133](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004133) · [03:31:00 · asr-004140](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004140) · [03:33:17 · asr-004172](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004172) · [03:45:59 · asr-004519](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004519)

### Parent participation and multigrade teaching

Pia Cayetano urged DepEd to involve parents and other caring adults in classrooms, particularly in the early grades, and suggested senior-high students could help as part of a practicum. Angara said parent volunteers already assist with feeding, but classroom participation is case-by-case and could be better directed through Kaagapay. Pia Cayetano also described multigrade schools as a potentially effective model for small communities. Angara agreed, saying the performance of multigrade schools does not drop and may be as good or better, while noting that smaller class sizes may contribute. He said DepEd is strengthening a peer-support system for mental health and extracurricular activities.

[03:36:16 · asr-004247](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004247) · [03:37:29 · asr-004285](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004285) · [03:38:56 · asr-004327](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004327) · [03:43:09 · asr-004455](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004455) · [03:43:23 · asr-004462](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004462)

### HPV vaccination and school roles

Pia Cayetano raised reports of difficulty finding vaccinators for HPV immunization in schools. Angara said the program belongs to DOH and that DepEd schools serve as the venue. Pia Cayetano said she would take the issue up with DOH.

[03:44:25 · asr-004492](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004492) · [03:44:36 · asr-004497-split-2](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004497-split-2) · [03:44:45 · asr-004502](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004502)

### Pilot use of AI for personalized learning

Pia Cayetano asked whether public schools were piloting AI-supported personalized learning and proposed trying it in a small number of municipalities and cities, adapted to Philippine conditions. Angara said DepEd had no such pilot yet and that a departure from the regular curriculum would need authorization, but said a pilot could be possible and the department could work with existing partners, including e-Care and Khan Academy. Aquino suggested a class-level pilot led by EDCOM; Angara said he would be happy to work with EDCOM and the committee. Pia Cayetano emphasized testing the approach in local poverty and cultural settings. Angara cited El Salvador pilots paired with PISA for Schools, while qualifying that the cited sample was not large.

[03:46:23 · asr-004529](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004529) · [03:47:00 · asr-004541](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004541) · [03:47:32 · asr-004553](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004553) · [03:48:40 · asr-004585](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004585) · [03:49:51 · asr-004611](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004611)

### Supporting athletes and other students with strong interests

Pia Cayetano said student-athletes and other young people with demanding interests can also complete degrees when schools creatively accommodate them. She drew on examples of athletes who combined sport and academic achievement and asked Angara to keep supporting flexible arrangements. She closed by saying her team would speak with other agencies she had previously handled to see how they could support the department.

[03:50:54 · asr-004641](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004641) · [03:51:12 · asr-004647](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004647) · [03:53:09 · asr-004710](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004710)

### Committee handling of senators' proposals

Aquino said the committee would collate suggested budget amendments and changes before submitting to the main committee, work with the department, and give senators an opportunity to submit requests. He described continued funding from the prior year as a shared interest; he did not announce a disposition of Pia Cayetano's individual proposals.

[03:53:21 · asr-004717](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004717) · [03:53:24 · asr-004719](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004719) · [03:54:01 · asr-004735](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-004735)

## Senator Erwin Tulfo

### Classroom access and digital readiness

Tulfo urged more classrooms, computers and safer schools. He said students should not keep crowding into classrooms, walk kilometers just to reach school, or study in facilities unsuited to their needs. Classroom construction should focus on areas with the greatest shortages.

He said school shooting incidents underscored the need for safe schools and for parents to be confident their children would return home safely. Students in remote areas may not have seen or know how to use a computer, he added, urging introduction to digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI).

Aquino also identified teen pregnancy and school feeding as priorities for the hearing.

[00:53:34 · asr-000555](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000555) · [00:53:38 · asr-000556](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000556) · [00:56:26 · asr-000587](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000587) · [00:56:37 · asr-000588](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000588)

### School security with local governments

Tulfo asked whether DepEd was coordinating with local governments to use barangay tanods at school gates, particularly to help watch students and check bags during arrival and dismissal where security guards were insufficient. Angara said DepEd had signed an agreement with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on the tanods' role. He said tanods could support smaller schools with low enrollment and low violence risk, while some local governments already paid for school guards, including in Palawan, Quezon City, Taguig, and Valenzuela.

[02:37:20 · asr-002593](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002593) · [02:37:28 · asr-002597](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002597) · [02:37:50 · asr-002608](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002608) · [02:38:41 · asr-002634](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002634)

### ARAL results and tutoring schedule

Oracion said the first year of ARAL reading support reduced the number of struggling readers from 6.7 million to 2.2 million by the end of the school year, and that more learners could read at grade level. She described tutoring groups of 10 to 15 students per teacher, preferably 10, with schools choosing sessions before or after class, during breaks, or for two hours on Saturdays.

In a connected follow-up, Chair Aquino said teachers reported that in some classes 35 to 40 of 50 students needed catch-up instruction. He asked whether those classes could use regular school hours for ARAL so most students would not sit through lessons they could not follow. Oracion agreed that this was an option left to schools and said such cases occurred in junior high school.

[02:27:21 · asr-002312](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002312) · [02:27:32 · asr-002315](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002315) · [02:28:18 · asr-002333](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002333) · [02:28:23 · asr-002334](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002334) · [02:39:25 · asr-002655](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002655) · [02:39:21 · asr-002653](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002653) · [02:40:19 · asr-002686](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002686) · [02:40:20 · asr-002687](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002687)

## Senator Alan Peter S. Cayetano

### Enrollment, reading, and school support

Alan Cayetano welcomed the PISA results and cited a 30% to 40% increase in students' reading proficiency through a remediation program. Referring to a DepEd EMISD enrollment graph, he said enrollment rose from 22.6 million in 2019 to 22.7 million in 2020 and reached 24 million in 2021-22, then fell to 23.2 million in 2023 and 22.5 million in 2024-25.

[00:57:37 · asr-000604](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000604) · [00:57:42 · asr-000605](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000605) · [00:59:39 · asr-000655](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000655) · [00:59:41 · asr-000656](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000656) · [00:59:43 · asr-000657](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000657) · [00:59:52 · asr-000661](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000661) · [00:59:54 · asr-000662](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000662) · [01:00:03 · asr-000667](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000667) · [01:00:06 · asr-000668](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000668) · [01:00:55 · asr-000680](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000680) · [01:01:08 · asr-000683](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000683) · [01:01:00 · asr-000682](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000682)

### Targeted support and better use of funds

Alan Cayetano asked how the reduced feeding support would affect stunting and what interventions could make a broad difference. He recalled a Taguig example: increasing the medicine budget did not shorten health-center lines, while home delivery of maintenance medicines reduced them. School-clinic improvements and eye and ear checks then helped teachers and parents discover that some children thought to be slow learners had vision or hearing problems. He asked where the money for such interventions could come from and challenged the committee to identify ideas that could improve education even within limited funds.

[01:04:35 · asr-000749](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000749) · [01:04:41 · asr-000750](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000750) · [01:05:42 · asr-000764](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-000764)

### School time, class size and meal breaks

Alan Cayetano linked education quality, mental health and other student concerns to how much time pupils spend at school and with teachers. He contrasted the current 5.5-hour memo with an eight-hour school day, and said DepEd classrooms now often hold 50 to 70 students. Angara explained that schools were given flexibility to reschedule around the hottest hours as DepEd prepared for El Nino. Alan Cayetano also urged a seated lunch break: food carried away and eaten without time to sit together, he argued, loses both nutritional value and time for students to connect.

[02:45:20 · asr-002813](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002813) · [02:45:24 · asr-002814](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002814) · [02:45:33 · asr-002816](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002816) · [02:46:03 · asr-002823](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002823) · [02:46:16 · asr-002826](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002826) · [02:46:24 · asr-002829](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002829) · [02:46:30 · asr-002831](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002831) · [02:46:43 · asr-002833](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002833)

### K-12 pathways and technical-vocational tracks

Alan Cayetano asked how long it would take for junior and senior high schools to have trainers and equipment for the tracks they offer, and how students choose among them. He said about one-third of schools lacked equipment for technical-vocational tracks and argued students should complete senior high school before choosing whether to pursue college or vocational training. Angara said TechPro was a change in name, described a shift toward academic and technical-vocational tracks with more cross-enrollment, and said DepEd was consulting schools and learners so offerings respond to local demand. He said the system had moved away from one-size-fits-all equipment and from funding only the most popular sport. Angara did not give a timetable for equipping every school.

Alan Cayetano questioned the K-12 model and asked whether it should remain for the next five years or lose one or two years. He proposed first taking a school-level inventory of clinics, guidance offices, covered courts and other facilities to inform that debate. Angara said DepEd had school-level data, but it did not always reach division or central-office level; improving that database had been a goal since he joined the Department in 2024.

On technical education, Alan Cayetano raised the gap between senior-high training and TESDA and said college graduates were also entering unemployment. Angara said unemployment is an economic and industrial-policy issue as well as an education issue. He described the Education Workforce Development Group as linking education supply with graduate employment demand. Sports and arts enrollment remained below 1% of students, Angara said, amid cultural bias and limited facilities; he agreed they should remain part of education.

[02:59:53 · asr-003052](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003052) · [03:00:00 · asr-003053](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003053) · [03:00:04 · asr-003054](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003054) · [03:00:35 · asr-003065](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003065) · [03:01:25 · asr-003086](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003086) · [03:04:12 · asr-003168](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003168) · [02:53:54 · asr-002939](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002939) · [02:55:01 · asr-002958](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002958) · [02:53:39 · asr-002934](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002934) · [03:01:48 · asr-003097](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003097)

### Arts, sports and creative careers

Alan Cayetano argued that schools had narrowed their focus to academics, reading, writing and STEM while losing spaces and programs for physical education, arts and sports. He asked that culture and the arts be considered part of education and described barriers facing Filipino artists seeking exhibitions abroad, including separate export and return permits. He asked the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and National Museum to help promote artists internationally; as an example of the potential market, he cited a USD 1 million artwork as a mid-range price for a successful artist. Angara said the education cluster did not include culture and sports, though NCCA was part of the Teacher Education Council. He agreed to work on Alan Cayetano's idea and said EDCOM had already begun discussions with artists to strengthen the DepEd arts curriculum.

[02:50:24 · asr-002887](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002887) · [02:50:33 · asr-002889](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002889) · [02:52:01 · asr-002906](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002906) · [02:52:30 · asr-002914](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002914) · [02:57:41 · asr-003001](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003001) · [02:57:47 · asr-003002](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003002) · [02:59:46 · asr-003049](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003049)

### Dropout causes and student follow-up

Alan Cayetano asked what was driving dropout and non-enrollment. Angara said the problem worsened after COVID as some students were slow to return, while demographic changes also affected enrollment. He reported 321,000 total dropouts and named domestic responsibilities, financial constraints and geographic conditions among the leading reasons. Angara said schools have a follow-up process: advisers are expected to check when students accumulate absences, and Alternative Learning System (ALS) teachers work with learners who have already dropped out.

Alan Cayetano said the process was not as comprehensive as home visits used elsewhere and described a house-to-house survey in Taguig every three months. He urged DepEd and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to coordinate follow-up so students who stop attending can return; Angara called the recommendation valid.

[03:09:15 · asr-003377](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003377) · [03:09:20 · asr-003380](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003380) · [03:09:26 · asr-003385](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003385) · [03:09:54 · asr-003404](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003404) · [03:11:35 · asr-003487](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003487)

### BARMM dropout, health and school access

In a BARMM-specific discussion, Alan Cayetano cited an 8% dropout rate and raised stunting, literacy and trauma from the Marawi siege as barriers to learners' return. Angara said the Bangsamoro Organic Act allowed DepEd to support teacher training, classrooms and vouchers, but the region had few private schools and therefore a small pool of potential voucher recipients. He said DepEd included BARMM in foreign-funded programs and grants as a workaround to the limits of regular programs.

Alan Cayetano proposed targeted help for students in extreme poverty, such as uniforms, notebooks and food, and described how those supports had helped students stay in school. Angara endorsed the idea.

[03:12:23 · asr-003533](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003533) · [03:12:32 · asr-003540](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003540) · [03:12:59 · asr-003566](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003566) · [03:14:52 · asr-003679](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-003679)

## Senator Francis Kiko Pangilinan

### Feeding-cycle length and beneficiary outcomes

Angara said the shortened feeding cycle covered 120 days, compared with a 200-day full school year. He observed that children gained while fed but returned toward their previous weight during days without meals. When Pangilinan asked why the cycle had been reduced, Angara said DepEd had proposed 200 days, while Pangilinan argued that a cut back to 120 days risked undoing gains and said the longer cycle should be restored.

Pangilinan referred to results at 180 feeding days and pressed for 200. Angara said 180 days would be adequate because students are weighed at the start of the school year and feeding does not begin on the first day. Pangilinan asked how many children might go hungry under a reduction; Angara discussed the shorter cycle but did not give a beneficiary count. Pangilinan asked DepEd to prepare its explanation for plenary.

[02:15:16 · asr-002117](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002117) · [02:15:25 · asr-002119](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002119) · [02:15:28 · asr-002121](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002121) · [02:15:33 · asr-002122](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002122) · [02:15:48 · asr-002126](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002126) · [02:15:53 · asr-002127](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002127) · [02:15:56 · asr-002128](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002128) · [02:16:50 · asr-002146](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002146) · [02:17:22 · asr-002155](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002155) · [02:17:51 · asr-002167](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002167) · [02:18:04 · asr-002172](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002172) · [02:18:28 · asr-002179](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002179) · [02:18:35 · asr-002181](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002181) · [02:18:42 · asr-002184](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002184) · [02:18:51 · asr-002187](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002187)

### Local farmer access and year-round supply

Masapol said individual small farmers had difficulty registering in the Department of Agriculture (DA)'s FIDES system, which prevented them from joining procurement. DepEd favored organizing farmers into cooperatives to provide the scale and steady supply required for year-round feeding purchases. Pangilinan urged flexibility while cooperatives form so a farmer's harvest would not be wasted, asked DepEd to provide details on registration barriers, and said the Senate could work on them; Angara agreed. Pangilinan also asked DepEd to prepare for plenary on implementation and supply-side challenges. He supported moving from nutritious food products (NFP) to hot meals, which he said children looked forward to and could also benefit farmers and fisherfolk.

[02:21:14 · asr-002222](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002222) · [02:21:27 · asr-002224](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002224) · [02:22:04 · asr-002233](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002233) · [02:22:56 · asr-002247](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002247) · [02:24:32 · asr-002267](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-002267)

## Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" Aquino IV

### Special-needs education reach and service gaps

Aquino asked whether DepEd still aimed for a special-needs classroom in every school. Angara explained that the law requires an inclusive learning resource center (ILRC) in each municipality and city; centers are often existing schools designated for the role, sometimes with only a few classrooms, and families may find them too far away. Aquino noted that the broader support needed to serve special-needs learners was not in the FY2027 budget and asked for a clearer picture of need before future budget and implementation decisions.

Aquino referred to an estimate of five million learners with special needs among 23 million learners, roughly 20 percent. Assistant Secretary Romeo T. Benviaje said that estimate came from a study and was unverified in the field. DepEd's Learner Information System showed about 495,000 students identified, with around 150,000 medically diagnosed. Aquino asked DepEd to establish how many children need special care, including those not diagnosed, and report the numbers and teacher ratios before plenary.

[04:32:54 · asr-005692](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005692) · [04:33:07 · asr-005697](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005697) · [04:33:29 · asr-005706](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005706) · [04:34:57 · asr-005756](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005756) · [04:35:08 · asr-005762](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005762) · [04:35:44 · asr-005775](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005775) · [04:36:01 · asr-005781](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005781) · [04:36:21 · asr-005788](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005788) · [04:36:45 · asr-005799](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005799) · [04:36:49 · asr-005800](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005800) · [04:36:51 · asr-005801](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005801) · [04:37:38 · asr-005822](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005822)

### Receiving teachers, developmental diagnosis, and allied-health pipeline

Benviaje said DepEd had 6,000-plus designated special-needs education teachers and was training receiving teachers, including general-education practitioners, to support inclusive classrooms. He described one receiving teacher for every five included learners as an ideal. Aquino used 400,000 suspected learners as an illustration and checked whether that would imply about 80,000 receiving teachers; Benviaje agreed, but clarified the approach would rely on training existing teachers rather than supplying specialized teachers for every learner. The calculation used the chair's rounded learner estimate; he requested validated prevalence and staffing figures. He contrasted the illustration with reported ratios of one teacher to 3,700 learners in Baguio, 3,000 in Malabon, and 1,200 in Tarlac.

Angara said accurate assessment by developmental pediatricians is also essential to decide which learners should join larger classes or receive one-to-one or small-group support. He said access is scarce even when funds are available, with appointments taking at least a year. Villanueva then described Minuyan Elementary School, where he had been told roughly 140 to 150 students with special needs had two teachers and fewer than 10 diagnoses. He highlighted the shortage of developmental pediatricians and other allied-health professionals. He cited annual training cohorts of five at the Philippine Children's Medical Center (PCMC), which could train at least 15; eight at the National Children's Hospital (NCH), which could add 10; and two at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH). He also said the number of state colleges and universities offering medicine had grown from eight to 30, but only two developmental pediatricians were reportedly produced annually.

Angara supported pursuing an allied-health professional law or program and pointed to a return-service model as one way to build a geographic pipeline. Aquino said EDCOM would examine the prevalence data and teacher pipeline with CHED and TESDA, and asked that PhilHealth be included; he and Angara agreed that funding alone would not solve the shortages, but that a healthcare package for children and coordinated services could help.

[04:38:11 · asr-005837](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005837) · [04:38:25 · asr-005843](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005843) · [04:39:14 · asr-005864](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005864) · [04:39:20 · asr-005867](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005867) · [04:39:42 · asr-005880](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005880) · [04:39:51 · asr-005886](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005886) · [04:39:54 · asr-005887](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005887) · [04:39:57 · asr-005888](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005888) · [04:40:34 · asr-005903](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005903) · [04:41:08 · asr-005917](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005917) · [04:42:33 · asr-005947](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005947) · [04:42:54 · asr-005952](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005952) · [04:43:13 · asr-005958](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005958) · [04:44:34 · asr-005977](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-005977) · [04:47:48 · asr-006022](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006022) · [04:47:51 · asr-006023](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006023) · [04:49:45 · asr-006054](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006054) · [04:49:54 · asr-006057](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006057) · [04:49:58 · asr-006058](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006058) · [04:50:39 · asr-006065](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006065)

### School safety programs and prevention

Aquino connected the School Safety Act to awareness and proactive conduct by school stakeholders, in addition to equipment and security personnel, and invited Stairway Foundation Child Protection Specialist Ysrael C. Diloy to describe its work with DepEd. Diloy said Stairway had worked with DepEd since 2012. He described anti-OSAEC classroom sessions developed with DepEd's Learners' Rights and Protection Division, reaching 8.5 million learners since 2024; an outcome study found three in four reported increased self-protection knowledge and willingness to disclose, and the last implementation tranche saw 4,000 disclosures. He also described learner-consulted anti-bullying sessions in development for hoped-for deployment by National Children's Month 2026, a companion learning app, peer educators and the Kaagapay Parenting in the Digital Age sessions for parents on online risks, reporting tools, supportive parenting and responding to disclosures without victim-blaming.

Aquino thanked Diloy, said he would work on funding for equipment, and emphasized that teachers, parents and children share responsibility. He urged DepEd to scale prevention and parental guidance through its nationwide infrastructure, including before the School Safety Act is passed. Villanueva then declined further questions and thanked DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and the department.

[05:10:18 · asr-006460](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006460) · [05:10:32 · asr-006467](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006467) · [05:11:23 · asr-006476](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006476) · [05:11:26 · asr-006478](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006478) · [05:12:09 · asr-006485](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006485) · [05:12:28 · asr-006489](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006489) · [05:12:53 · asr-006492](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006492) · [05:13:10 · asr-006494](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006494) · [05:13:29 · asr-006497](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006497) · [05:14:08 · asr-006504](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006504) · [05:20:55 · asr-006603](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006603) · [05:22:33 · asr-006621](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006621) · [05:24:17 · asr-006645](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006645) · [05:24:41 · asr-006649](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006649)

## Senator Joel Villanueva

### Contract personnel and hard-to-fill vacancies

Villanueva renewed his concern about job-order and contract-of-service staff doing continuing work while DepEd had vacancies. He cited 1,088,991 authorized positions, about 45,000 unfilled posts and 44,000 job-order/contract-of-service personnel, compared with 48,711 vacancies and 37,000 such workers previously. Angara referred the question to the human-resources lead. Cabral said the department offers eligible job-order workers vacant plantilla posts, provides career-service exam review, but cannot absorb those who lack required eligibility; it retains them rather than leave them without work. He cited hard-to-fill legal jobs and low salary grades for some CPA-required accounting posts as recruitment barriers. DepEd was using the Government Optimization Act to review its organization, speeding hiring, and allowing field offices to form additional human-resource selection boards. Villanueva asked for a report on the vacancies and proposed actions so senators could help.. On the current teaching-position program, Cabral reported 32,916 approved posts and about 24,000 filled.

[04:54:49 · asr-006133](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006133) · [04:55:11 · asr-006136](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006136) · [04:55:22 · asr-006137](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006137) · [04:55:28 · asr-006138](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006138) · [04:55:33 · asr-006139](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006139) · [04:56:14 · asr-006146](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006146) · [04:56:23 · asr-006148](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006148) · [04:56:28 · asr-006150](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006150) · [04:57:58 · asr-006171](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006171) · [04:58:12 · asr-006175](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006175) · [04:58:50 · asr-006190](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006190) · [04:58:54 · asr-006191](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006191) · [04:59:05 · asr-006195](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006195) · [05:03:37 · asr-006317](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006317) · [05:03:46 · asr-006322](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006322)

### Classroom construction partnerships

On Villanueva's question about the Classroom Acceleration Program (CAP) bill and using local-government and civil-society participation to accelerate classroom construction, Angara supported legislation committing government to a continuing school-building program involving multiple actors. He said relying on only one or two implementing agencies slowed bidding as project capacity demands grew, and that more than 400 local government units were helping bid out classrooms. He described the bill as a way to institutionalize that approach. Villanueva welcomed the answer and separately supported piloting more school programs around a "supermarket of competencies," saying the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM) would initiate a program.

[05:06:48 · asr-006411](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006411) · [05:07:01 · asr-006417](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006417) · [05:07:15 · asr-006421](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006421) · [05:07:51 · asr-006434](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006434) · [05:08:24 · asr-006440](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006440)

## Closing

### Motion and suspension

Villanueva moved to approve at this level the budget of the Department of Education and its attached agencies for plenary action, and to deem it submitted. Chair Bam Aquino accepted the deemed-submitted wording and suspended the briefing. This was a committee-level procedural motion for plenary action; it did not approve individual increases or establish the final appropriation.

[05:25:12 · asr-006659](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006659) · [05:25:20 · asr-006660](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006660) · [05:25:27 · asr-006662](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006662) · [05:25:28 · asr-006663](https://tordecilla.github.io/budget-hearings-2026/records/96/#asr-006663)