P3.38 Trillion Education Budget Set to Address Classroom Shortages, Boost Student Nutrition

The Senate Committee on Basic Education, chaired by Senator Bam Aquino, has welcomed a record P3.38 trillion allocation for the country’s education sector in the proposed 2026 National Budget the largest in Philippine history.

According to Aquino, the budget is a historic milestone for Philippine education, aiming to tackle the country’s classroom backlog and strengthen student nutrition programs. “This is the first time the education budget meets the United Nations’ recommended allocation of 4 to 6 percent of GDP,” he said.

The Senate version of the budget specifically addresses the 165,000-classroom backlog, which would require around P540 billion to fully resolve. For 2026, P65.9 billion has been earmarked to start closing the gap. Aquino expressed confidence that continued funding at this level in the coming years could eliminate classroom shortages nationwide.

On student nutrition, the increased funding will expand the school-based feeding program from 120 to 200 feeding days, providing better health support for learners.

The historic budget demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving access, quality, and equity in education, ensuring that Filipino students have safer learning spaces and healthier school environments.

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