MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has expressed gratitude to the House of Representatives for approving Tuesday’s proposed P793.1 billion budget for next year.
The budget breezed through the plenary after around an hour of questioning.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the approved allocation supports programs and initiatives geared at constructing DepEd classrooms, rehabilitating school facilities, and implementing the agency’s Computerization program, among others.
READ: House to pass proposed 2025 budget Wednesday night – Romualdez
“We sincerely thank Speaker [Martin] Romualdez, Budget Sponsor Rep. [Maria Carmen] Zamora, and the entire House of Representatives for their dedication to uplifting our education system. This budget reflects our shared commitment to unlocking the full potential of every Filipino learner,” Angara said in a statement on Wednesday.
Aside from this, the funding will be allocated to DepEd’s attached agencies, including the National Book Development Board, National Council for Children’s Television, National Museum, Philippine High School for the Arts, Early Childhood Care and Development Council, and the National Academy of Sports.
Of the five lawmakers who questioned or supported the budget, Angara acknowledged the constructive feedback from ACT Partylist Rep. France Castro.
He explained that Castro’s feedback “contributed to the revision of DepEd Order No. 12, series 2024.”
“This amendment to DepEd Order No. 010, s. 2024, introduces greater flexibility in teaching hours under the MATATAG Curriculum, promoting a healthier work-life balance for educators while ensuring improved educational outcomes,” the agency said.
During earlier deliberations on the DepEd’s budget, lawmakers praised Angara’s “exemplary conduct,” noting that the hearing went smoothly.
Angara also stayed for over 10 hours to answer queries, including some topics that did not happen under his watch.
On Wednesday night, Romualdez said the lower chamber would pass the 2025 General Appropriations Bill on the third and final reading.