SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian called on public officials to set politics aside in the construction of public school classrooms, following a major policy shift that now allows the Department of Education to decide who builds classrooms instead of relying solely on the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Gatchalian explained that for many years, DPWH held a monopoly over government infrastructure projects, including classrooms, hospitals, irrigation systems, and military barracks.

Under the current national budget, however, this setup has been liberalized.

“Before, all infrastructure projects were centered in DPWH. In this budget, we liberalized it,” Gatchalian said.

“Agencies can now choose to build on their own, partner with local government units, work with the private sector, or still partner with DPWH. Hindi na monopolized.”

The change comes as DepEd receives its largest budget allocation to date, including P68 billion earmarked for classroom construction—up sharply from about P12 billion in previous years.

The increase aims to address the country’s persistent classroom shortage, which Gatchalian estimated would require around P400 billion to fully resolve.

Gatchalian acknowledged concerns that allowing partnerships with local government units (LGUs) could politicize classroom construction, particularly in areas where local officials are in conflict.

Some critics have warned that political rivalries among mayors, governors, and lawmakers could delay or derail projects.

“I think we have to put politics aside when it comes to education and the welfare of the people,” Gatchalian said. “Dapat yung mga local officials, tabi muna nila yung politika.”

He stressed that education should not be affected by political differences, noting that classrooms are a basic necessity for students and communities.

Gatchalian also confirmed that the new system allows DepEd to partner beyond LGUs, including public-private partnerships and collaborations with civil society organizations and other government agencies.

Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara, he said, has already begun engaging LGUs nationwide to accelerate classroom construction.

“Secretary Angara wants to build simultaneously,” Gatchalian said.

“Partner with LGUs, partner with CSOs—there are private groups and foundations already building classrooms—and even partner with other government agencies like the military’s Corps of Engineers.”

Addressing concerns on whether DepEd can absorb and effectively utilize the P68-billion allocation, Gatchalian expressed confidence in the department’s capacity to implement the program efficiently.