The Senate has approved the proposed ₱1.044 trillion budget for the Department of Education (DepEd) for 2026—marking the largest allocation ever for the country’s biggest government agency and signaling a major push for long-awaited reforms in basic education.
Senator Bam Aquino, chair of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, said the budget represents the beginning of meaningful changes in the sector.
“Ito pong budget na ito, ito po yung simula… Basta pinagtutulungan po natin para sa ating kabataan, I’m sure maabot po natin ang ating pangarap natin para sa kabataan,” he said.
Senator Win Gatchalian, who defended the budget as chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, said the historic appropriation underscores lawmakers’ trust in Education Secretary Sonny Angara’s reform agenda.
Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri added that the “sizable budget” will fast-track the construction of classrooms, raise teacher compensation, and ensure students have access to essential learning materials.
Angara, thanking his former Senate colleagues, said the support proves national commitment to rebuilding the education system.
“Ang suporta ng Senado ay malinaw na patunay na buong bansa ang nakatutok sa muling pagbangon ng basic education… Gagawin naming kapaki-pakinabang ang halagang ito sa pamamagitan ng mga pagbabago na tunay na mararamdaman ng bawat Pilipino.”
Senator Pia Cayetano also praised DepEd’s openness to reforms recommended by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), noting that many of its proposals were quickly translated into actionable plans.