SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Monday expressed full support for the proposed ₱902.895-million budget of the Office of the Vice President for 2026, emphasizing its positive impact on students through education-centered programs.

During Senate budget deliberations, Gatchalian described the OVP’s 1.3 percent budget increase as a “bare basic budget,” considering inflation and salary adjustments.

He said the modest hike was justified as it sustains programs benefiting underserved learners and struggling families.

Among the initiatives he praised was the PagbaBAGo Campaign, the OVP’s flagship project distributing school supplies while promoting education alongside the National Greening Program. So far, 400,000 sets of supplies have been given to students nationwide.

He also commended the Pangsarap Project, a feeding program that has served 16,000 students, and the Kalusugan Food Truck, which has assisted 6,500 evacuees.

Another initiative, the Relief for Crisis and Emergencies (RICE) Project, has benefited 197,000 individuals, many of them students.

“It is a simple program, but very important, because many of our countrymen, especially those in far-flung areas, go to school hungry and without proper facilities,” Gatchalian said.

“These programs are directly tied to education, and education is one of our most important priorities. I fully support all of them,” he added.

The OVP’s proposed 2026 budget was approved for plenary consideration, ensuring the continuation of these student-focused programs next year.