DEPARTMENT of Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the agency’s 2026 budget prioritizes the health and safety of students through improved learning environments.

Angara noted that the budget direction strikes a balance between accountability and compassion, ensuring that public funds translate into visible and measurable support for learners.

“Sa edukasyon, hindi lang mahalaga kung ano ang natutunan ng mga bata, kundi kung gaano sila kaligtas, kalusog, at suportado habang sila ay natututo. Ang bawat pisong ginagastos ng gobyerno ay dapat maramdaman sa bawat silid-aralan, sa bawat kusina, at sa bawat klinika ng ating mga paaralan,” Angara said.

The proposed budget also includes the creation of 10,000 School Counselor Associate I positions to strengthen mental health and psychosocial support for students.

DepEd is likewise pushing additional proposals under its budget wishlist to expand school-based health and disaster-response programs.