SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday expressed full support for teachers and students participating in a nationwide sit-down strike calling for greater accountability amid allegations of widespread corruption in government.

In a statement, Gatchalian said he shares the education sector’s frustration over how corruption has weakened programs and services meant to address the country’s learning crisis.

“I join teachers and students in their sit-down strike today, calling for accountability in response to widespread corruption in government. I share their frustration over how rampant corruption has undermined education programs and services,” he said.

As chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Gatchalian reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening transparency in the national budget process. He announced that the 2026 budget will allocate a historic ₱1.38 trillion for the education sector—marking the first time the allocation will exceed 4.5% of the country’s GDP.

“For 2026, we will set a historic P1.38 trillion budget for education, the first time the sector’s allocation will breach 4.5% of GDP. As we address the crisis in education, it is equally important to root out corruption,” he added.

Gatchalian emphasized that genuine reforms in the education sector cannot take hold unless funds are protected from misuse. Strengthening oversight mechanisms, he said, will be a key priority to ensure that every peso intended for learners is spent properly.