EDUCATION Secretary Sonny Angara on Saturday emphasized the importance of investing in Early Childhood Care and Development.

“We need to invest more in the early years of our people to ensure that every Filipino child born today has the chance to dream, learn, grow, and contribute to our nation’s progress,” Angara said.

He cited data from the United Nations Children’s Fund showing that many Filipino children are not enrolled in early learning programs.

“Early investments in human capital are hallmarks of a forward-looking society. We must not fall short of nurturing human capital from the very beginning,” the education chief added.

According to DepEd, the agency is collaborating closely with local government units to address disparities effectively and efficiently.

“Local governments should have the power, resources, and personnel to shape the lives of their youngest constituents. We’ve seen visionary mayors who have creatively utilized their Special Education Fund, directing resources toward children’s nutrition, daycare construction, and parent livelihood programs,” Angara noted.