Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In a significant step towards resolving the long-standing classroom shortage in the Philippines, the Department of Education (DepEd) has signed a landmark USD 1 million Technical Assistance Agreement with the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center. The agreement, signed by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara on Friday, marks a crucial milestone in addressing the country’s education infrastructure gap. This partnership will drive the construction of 15,000 classrooms in 2025 under the Public-Private Partnership for School Infrastructure Program Phase III (PSIP III).
The Project Development and Monitoring Facility grant provided by the PPP Center aims to enhance the planning and execution of PSIP III, ensuring an efficient, transparent, and impactful implementation process.
A Collaborative Vision for Educational Progress
In his speech, Secretary Angara underscored the ambitious nature of the initiative, quoting poet Robert Browning: "A man's reach should exceed his grasp." He emphasized that DepEd, in collaboration with the PPP Center and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), is striving to exceed expectations to provide quality education infrastructure for millions of Filipino learners. *"How can we ask our learners to exceed their reach if we ourselves do not try to exceed our potentials?"* Angara remarked, underscoring the importance of institutional ambition in driving meaningful change.
Aligned with National Priorities
The initiative aligns seamlessly with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s vision of enhancing education quality and infrastructure. Secretary Angara highlighted the President’s commitment to creating better learning environments, which directly supports the administration's education reform agenda. "He [President Marcos] would appreciate this partnership because it not only improves the quality of education but also enhances the overall learning environment,"* Angara noted.
An Ambitious Infrastructure Rollout
Starting in 2025, DepEd plans to design, finance, and construct 15,000 classrooms across 1,600 schools in nine regions, benefiting over 600,000 learners nationwide. These classrooms will serve as safe, innovative, and conducive spaces for education, contributing significantly to DepEd's-Point Reform Agenda
Beyond Construction: A Sustainable Future** The classrooms will be more than just four walls and a roof. DepEd is exploring holistic solutions that integrate sustainable energy systems, reliable internet connectivity, durable furniture, and efficient water systems. Furthermore, each classroom will be equipped with solar panel systems, rainwater catchments, and other climate-resilient features to ensure long-term sustainability and adaptability to environmental challenges.
Strong Support from Key Stakeholders
Secretary Angara expressed gratitude to NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan for advocating and supporting the partnership. He also acknowledged the PPP Center, led by Executive Director Ma. Cynthia Hernandez, and other key officials, including Department of Finance (DoF) Usec. Catherine Fong and Private Sector Jobs and Skills Corporation President Josephine Romero, for their invaluable contributions. "Thank you, Sec. Balisacan, for your initiative and continued commitment to supporting the education sector. We are excited about the future collaborations ahead," Angara said.
A Transformative Step Forward
With the PPP model gaining renewed focus, DepEd aims to replicate the success of PSIP III across other educational infrastructure projects, including bundled campus developments, modern libraries, and innovative facilities. This partnership reflects a broader vision: education infrastructure is not merely about constructing buildings—it’s about laying the foundation for a brighter, more resilient future for millions of Filipino learners. As DepEd embarks on this ambitious journey, the collaboration with the PPP Center sets a strong precedent for how public and private sectors can work together to address systemic challenges and create transformative change.
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