SENATOR  Francis “Chiz” Escudero welcomed the Department of Education’s designation of Sorsogon as a pilot area for its expanded classroom construction initiative, saying the selection reflects the local government’s long-standing commitment to improving education.

In commending the initiative, Escudero noted that the move affirms a principle he has long advocated: capable LGUs, when empowered through partnerships with national agencies, can accelerate progress in critical sectors like education.

The senator previously urged the national government to pursue a tripartite agreement among DepEd, the Department of Public Works and Highways, and the Department of Agriculture. Such collaboration, he said, would enable qualified LGUs to achieve faster growth through improved infrastructure, stronger rural connectivity, and upgraded school facilities.

“The selection of Sorsogon demonstrates DepEd’s confidence in the province’s readiness to deliver,” Escudero said. “This collaboration reflects the model I have long promoted: national agencies partnering with LGUs that have proven capacity and stability. It shows how this approach can deliver faster, more accountable results.”

The statement followed Education Secretary Sonny Angara’s confirmation of the forthcoming signing of the Memorandum of Agreement, tentatively scheduled for February 11 at Malacañang, with the President expected to witness the ceremony.

Escudero, who served as governor of Sorsogon from 2019 to 2022, emphasized that education has always been a top priority for the province. During his term, he strengthened school infrastructure, expanded digital learning support, and implemented pandemic-era interventions to ensure continuity of education. These initiatives complemented broader infrastructure and peace-and-order improvements, positioning Sorsogon to lead in addressing the classroom backlog.

Under the proposed MOA, the Provincial Government of Sorsogon will oversee school building projects through the Basic Education Facilities Fund. The LGU will handle procurement and construction, while DepEd will provide financial support and technical guidance to ensure compliance with national standards and quality requirements.

The joint undertaking is designed to combine local agility with national expertise, enabling faster and more accountable project delivery.

“DepEd’s openness to new approaches, coupled with Sorsogon’s readiness to deliver, makes this partnership a strong step toward ensuring every Filipino learner has a safe, dignified, and functional classroom,” Escudero said.