SENATOR Pia Cayetano, Senior Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, called for urgent and decisive measures to address the country’s widening classroom shortage during the hearing on the proposed 2026 budget of the Department of Education (DepEd).

Cayetano noted that the government needs at least ₱400 billion to construct enough classrooms nationwide.

She stressed that solving this backlog requires not only larger budget allocations but also efficient fund utilization, stronger coordination between DepEd and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and greater involvement of local government units in funding minor repairs to maximize existing facilities.

Beyond infrastructure, the senator emphasized the importance of holistic education support.

She pushed for aid to school sports clubs, alignment of higher education programs to produce professionals in key fields, and the integration of digital wellness and mental health into lessons.

Cayetano also highlighted the need to sustain feeding and reading programs that directly affect student performance and well-being.

“Education should prepare our students not just with knowledge but with the four Cs—critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity—so they are ready for the challenges of the future,” she said.

Finally, she urged her Senate colleagues to safeguard education funds at every stage of the budget process, stressing that every peso must translate into better learning opportunities for Filipino students.