The decision to slash ₱12 billion from the Department of Education’s (DepEd) budget for 2025 amidst the ongoing learning crisis starkly contradicts the government’s commitment to prioritizing education, as mandated by the Constitution. No less than Sec. Sonny Angara, former chair of the Senates finance committee, expressed dismay over this cuta sentiment that resonates with stakeholders across the education sector who have tirelessly advocated for increased support to address persistent deficiencies in our schools.

The reduction, particularly the ₱10 billion cut from the DepEd Computerization Program, is a disservice to Filipino learners. This program could have provided the needed gadgets and technology to bridge the digital divide, which became glaringly evident during the pandemic. By deprioritizing this initiative, Congress risks exacerbating existing inequalities and leaving millions of students unprepared for the demands of a modern, technology-driven world.

The learning crisis in the Philippines marked by poor performance in international assessments, overcrowded classrooms, insufficient facilities and learning materials, and inadequate teacher support demands urgent action. Substantial resources must be allocated to address the backlog of classrooms, improve facilities, provide essential learning materials, and ensure that every learner has access to quality education and modern tools.

Moreover, this budget reduction delivers another blow to the welfare of our teachers, who are already overworked, underpaid, and often forced to shoulder classroom expenses out of their own pockets due to insufficient government support. Our teachers, who ensure the daily operation of DepEd, are often neglected, particularly when it comes to their calls for substantial salary increases, better working conditions, professional development, and other rights and benefits.

Teachers and learners are the lifeblood of the education system, yet their welfare is too often sidelined in favor of programs with limited impact or, at times, purely controversial. Stakeholders must unite to demand a higher education budget that genuinely addresses the sector’s needs. The welfare of teachers, who form the backbone of the system, and learners, who represent its future must never be compromised.

The government must recognize that investing in education is not merely a constitutional obligation but a moral imperative. Neglecting education will have far-reaching consequences, undermining national development and competitiveness for generations to come. It is time for Congress and the executive branch to revisit their priorities and ensure that education receives the funding it so desperately needs. #

Reference:
Benjo Basas, TDC National Chairperson
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