𝐏𝟏.𝟕𝐁 𝐄𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐁𝐔𝐃𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃 𝐈𝐍 𝟏𝐒𝐓 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐋 𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐑𝐃 𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐎𝐅 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔
Demonstrating a strong commitment to improving the quality of education in the province, the Provincial School Board (PSB), chaired by Governor Pam Baricuatro, approved a P1.7 billion education budget during its first meeting for the year, with approximately P1.4 billion immediately allocated for priority programs and infrastructure.
The funding, sourced from the Special Education Fund (SEF), will support critical initiatives aimed at addressing classroom shortages, strengthening learning resources, and expanding opportunities for Cebuano learners.
Among the major allocations is P700 million for the construction of smart classrooms, reinforcing the province’s push toward modern, technology-enabled learning environments.
Another P295.9 million was earmarked for the construction of Temporary Learning Shelters (TLS) to immediately replace classrooms damaged by the 2025 earthquakes while awaiting permanent rehabilitation.
The Department of Education (DepEd)-7 has confirmed 269 damaged classrooms following the disaster — a figure consistent with the Capitol’s Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDANA) report.
To ensure students have the tools they need to succeed, the Board also approved P335.9 million for school supplies, instructional materials, and other operating needs for learners from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Additional investments include:
• P13 million for the purchase of armchairs to improve classroom conditions
• P10 million for sports equipment to support student development and athletics
• P3.48 million for early childhood education through the provision of ukuleles
• P30 million for learning materials under literacy and numeracy recovery programs
• Funding for teacher and personnel training, educational research, and school governance support
The Board likewise approved financial support for key student programs such as the Cebu Provincial Sports and Cultural Festival, participation in the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) meet, and representation in the Palarong Pambansa — ensuring that young Cebuanos continue to excel both academically and competitively.
Various DepEd initiatives also received backing, including campus journalism, science and math fairs, scouting programs, student leadership development, special education, and cultural programs.
Governor Baricuatro emphasized that investing in education remains one of the provincial government’s most important responsibilities.
“Education is the foundation of our future. When we invest in our schools, we invest in the dreams of every Cebuano child. Our goal is clear — to create learning environments that are safe, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our students and teachers,” the governor has said.
She added that the Provincial Government will continue to work closely with the Department of Education to ensure resources are used effectively and that no learner is left behind.
The approval of the education package sets the tone for the province’s priorities this year — placing human capital development at the forefront and reaffirming the administration’s vision of building a stronger, more resilient Cebu through accessible and quality education. /𝑪𝑨𝑷𝑰𝑻𝑶𝑳 𝑷𝑰𝑶, 𝑷𝒉𝒐𝒕𝒐𝒔 𝒃𝒚 𝑨𝑹𝑱
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