CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES — The Province of Cebu is investing heavily in classrooms and learning recovery this year after the Provincial School Board approved a P1.7-billion education budget focused on disaster rehabilitation, smart classrooms, and expanded support for students and teachers.
The funding, sourced from the Special Education Fund (SEF), was approved during the Board’s first meeting of the year, chaired by Governor Pamela Baricuatro.
Of the total amount, around P1.4 billion has been immediately allocated for priority programs and infrastructure. The governor said said the investment reflects the provincial government’s priority on education.
Baricuatro said the budget aims to respond to urgent needs, including damaged classrooms, learning losses, and the need for improved facilities and resources for both students and teachers.
“We’re very happy. That includes the building of our temporary learning space and also the smart classrooms from the province of Cebu,” she said.
The largest allocation, P700 million, will be used for the construction of smart classrooms across the province. The initiative is part of the Capitol’s effort to modernize learning environments and integrate technology into public education.
Another major portion of the fund, P295.9 million, has been set aside for the construction of Temporary Learning Shelters (TLS). These structures will serve as immediate replacements for classrooms damaged by the 2025 earthquakes.
Data from the Department of Education (DepEd) in Central Visayas confirmed that 269 classrooms were damaged by the disaster. The figure is consistent with the provincial government’s Post Disaster Needs Assessment.
The TLS units are intended as interim facilities while permanent rehabilitation and reconstruction are being planned.
In a previous announcement, the provincial government said 269 TLS units will be built across 34 municipalities. Each shelter is designed as a one-classroom structure to provide a safe and functional learning space for displaced students.
The units will cost about P1.1 million each. Distribution will prioritize areas with the most urgent need for replacement classrooms.
Aside from infrastructure, the PSB also allocated P335.9 million for school supplies, instructional materials, and other operating needs for learners from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
The school board noted that the funding is meant to support day-to-day learning requirements and ease resource constraints in public schools.
To improve classroom conditions, P13 million was approved for the purchase of armchairs.
Another P10 million was earmarked for sports equipment to support student development and school athletics.
Early childhood education programs will also receive P3.48 million for the provision of ukuleles.
Meanwhile, P30 million was allocated for literacy and numeracy recovery programs.
The initiative aims to address learning gaps that widened due to disruptions in recent years.
The budget also includes funding for teacher and personnel training. Support for educational research and school governance initiatives was likewise approved.
The PSB also set aside funds for student participation in major academic and extracurricular activities. These include the Cebu Provincial Sports and Cultural Festival.
Support was also approved for participation in the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) meet, as well as funding allocation for Cebu’s representation in the Palarong Pambansa.
Various DepEd programs will also receive financial backing. Among these are campus journalism, science and mathematics fairs, scouting activities, and student leadership development.
Programs for special education and cultural development were also included in the approved package.
Baricuatro emphasized that improving school facilities and learning conditions is essential to the province’s long-term development.
The governor said the Capitol will continue working closely with DepEd to ensure proper implementation and effective use of resources.
| Written by Jonnavie VillaRAE
