SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian expressed confidence that classroom construction efforts will accelerate this year as the government ramps up measures to address the country’s longstanding shortage of learning facilities, just days before the opening of School Year 2026–2027.

Gatchalian noted that the 2026 national budget earmarks P67.931 billion for the construction of classrooms, including technical-vocational laboratories.

The allocation is expected to fund the construction of up to 24,527 classrooms nationwide, benefiting an estimated 4.6 million learners.

Despite the substantial investment, the senator emphasized that the demand for additional learning facilities remains high. Based on data from the Department of Education (DepEd), the country’s classroom backlog stood at 147,000 as of July 2025.

Gatchalian also highlighted a key provision in the 2026 General Appropriations Act that is expected to speed up the delivery of classroom projects.

Previously, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) had the sole authority to construct school buildings. Under the new provision, however, DepEd is now authorized to enter into memorandum of agreement arrangements with local government units, other government agencies, and civil society organizations for the construction of educational facilities.

According to the senator, the expanded partnership framework will allow more stakeholders to participate in building classrooms, helping address the shortage more quickly.

“Kung mas maraming LGUs at iba’t ibang sektor na makakatulong sa pagpapatayo ng mga silid-aralan, mas mapapabilis natin ang pag-abot sa target ngayong taon hanggang sa mapunan natin ang kakulangan sa mga silid-aralan,” Gatchalian said.

Education officials have repeatedly stressed that addressing the classroom backlog is crucial to improving learning conditions, easing classroom congestion, and providing students with a more conducive learning environment as millions return to school for the new academic year.