THE DEPARTMENT of Education on Wednesday described the proposed P1.224-trillion budget for the education sector in 2026 as “historic,” noting it marks the first time the Philippines has met the UNESCO benchmark of allocating four percent of its Gross Domestic Product to education.

During a budget hearing at the House of Representatives, Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara thanked President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for making education a top priority under the 2026 National Expenditure Program.

“For the first time, our country is compliant with UNESCO standards. This is not just an investment in education but an investment in the future of our learners to ensure they receive the highest quality of education,” Angara said.

Under the NEP, DepEd will receive P928.52 billion, while State Universities and Colleges will get ₱134.99 billion. The Commission on Higher Education is allocated P34 billion, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority ₱20.24 billion.

Key programs funded under the proposed budget include:

P115.4 billion for Senior High School vouchers and the School-Based Feeding Program

P41.6 billion for classroom construction, repair, and rehabilitation under the Basic Education Facilities Fund

P15.4 billion for new plantilla positions such as Project Development and Administrative Officers

P13.8 billion for the DepEd Computerization Program to strengthen digital learning

Attached agencies also received allocations, including the National Museum of the Philippines (P840.9 million), the National Academy of Sports (P251.1 million), the Teacher Education Council (₱
P207.5 million), the Philippine High School for the Arts (P160.7 million), the National Book Development Board (P156.6 million), and the National Council for Children’s Television (P72.6 million).

Angara emphasized that the unprecedented budget reflects a commitment to address long-standing gaps and equip Filipino students with the tools they need to thrive.