CSO URGES CONGRESS TO APPROVE FULL ₱961.3-B DEPED BUDGET

A civil society group, E-Net Philippines, urged Congress to protect and fully approve the Department of Education’s ₱961.3-billion budget for 2026 without cuts or reallocations.

The DepEd budget is part of the proposed ₱6.7-trillion national budget, which Congress is expected to ratify on December 29 and send to President Marcos for enactment.

E-Net highlighted the importance of a ₱13.9-billion increase for school-based feeding programs to address hunger, improve attendance, and support learning outcomes.

The group also called for transparency and accountability in budget implementation, ensuring funds reach learners in vulnerable communities, including children with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, and out-of-school youth.

Finally, E-Net emphasized protecting teachers’ welfare provisions, such as allowances, overtime pay, and professional support, to sustain quality teaching and reduce burnout.

Source: PhilNews24 | December 22, 2025