DepEd Partners with PPP Center to Tackle Classroom Shortage Through Innovative Infrastructure Solutions

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. 

PNP Enhances Holiday Safety with 911 Emergency Hotline: Fast Response in Just 3-5 Minutes

Wazzup Pilipinas!!

The Philippine National Police (PNP), through its Office of Communications and Electronics Service (CES), is stepping up efforts to ensure public safety during the holiday season. With increased travel, festive gatherings, and heightened activity across the country, the PNP reminds everyone to stay vigilant and rely on the universal emergency hotline 911 (then press 1) for immediate assistance.

Quick and Reliable Emergency Response with Advanced Technology

CES Director Police Brigadier General Warren Gaspar Tolito emphasized that emergencies tend to spike during the holidays, with common incidents including traffic accidents, electrical hazards, fireworks-related injuries, and medical emergencies caused by overindulgence in food and alcohol.

The good news? The PNP's emergency response capabilities have been significantly enhanced through advanced technology provided by NGA 911, the same system used in the United States and Europe. This upgrade enables first responders to reach emergency scenes within 3 to 5 minutes, whether in Metro Manila or provincial areas.

“This system allows us to pinpoint the exact location of a distress call and dispatch help faster than ever before,” said General Tolito.

How to Use the 911 Hotline Effectively

In an emergency, citizens are advised to:

Dial 911 from a cellphone or landline.

Press 1 to connect directly to the PNP.

Stay calm and clearly state the nature of the emergency.

Provide your name and address, along with any specific location details (e.g., floor number, nearby landmarks).

“The technology automatically captures the caller’s contact details and location, ensuring that help arrives swiftly,” General Tolito assured.

For Crime-Related Emergencies:

Observe and note details like the number of suspects, clothing descriptions, and hairstyles.

If a vehicle is involved, share its make, color, and license plate number, if visible.

Holiday Safety and Survival Tips from the PNP

General Tolito also shared key safety reminders to reduce risks during the festive season:

Secure Homes and Vehicles: Lock all doors and windows, and leave lights on to deter intruders.

Be Cautious with Electrical Appliances and Decorations: Avoid overloading outlets and inspect Christmas lights for damage.

Drive Responsibly: Avoid drunk driving and follow traffic rules.

Stay Alert in Public Spaces: Watch out for pickpockets and suspicious individuals.

Know Emergency Procedures: Ensure every family member knows how to call 911.

“The holiday season brings joy and celebration, but it also comes with heightened risks. Emergencies such as fires, thefts, medical crises, and vehicular accidents are more common during this time. Our goal is to minimize these risks and ensure every Filipino feels safe and secure,” General Tolito said.

DILG’s Revitalized Emergency 911 Initiative

The improved emergency response system is part of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)'s Revitalized Emergency 911 initiative, powered by NGA 911 LLC's Next-Generation Technology.

This nationwide effort has revolutionized the PNP's ability to respond quickly and efficiently to emergencies, bringing the Philippines closer to global standards in public safety and crisis management.

Final Reminder: One Number, One Call for Help

“At the first sign of danger, don’t hesitate—call 911 and press 1. Our emergency responders are prepared to act swiftly to protect you and your loved ones,” General Tolito emphasized.

This holiday season, let’s celebrate responsibly and stay vigilant. With the PNP’s enhanced emergency response system, help is just one call away. Stay safe, stay secure, and enjoy the festivities!

EPIRA at 20: Promises, Realities, and the Future of the Philippine Power Sector

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In 2001, the Philippine government passed the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) with grand promises: affordable electricity, improved efficiency, and a competitive power sector. Over two decades later, the reality is far more complex. While some improvements have been made, the overarching goal of providing affordable and equitable electricity remains elusive. In "Saan Umabot ang Bente Mo: EPIRA 20 Years After", the analysis uncovers the intricate web of politics, corporate dominance, and unfulfilled promises that continue to define the Philippine power sector.

The High Cost of Privatization

At the heart of EPIRA was the idea that privatizing state-owned assets would bring competition, lower costs, and improve service. However, the outcome has been starkly different. The Philippines now has one of the highest electricity rates in Southeast Asia, second only to Singapore​

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Privatization has shifted control of power generation, transmission, and distribution into the hands of a few influential conglomerates, reinforcing an oligopolistic structure. Despite promises of competitive pricing, power remains a costly burden, particularly for low-income households.

Power and Profit: Who Really Benefits?

The book dives into how the power sector has become a cash cow for the elite few. It traces ownership transitions from state control under the Marcos regime to private oligarchies under Aquino, Ramos, and Arroyo administrations.

Key Players: Prominent families such as Lopez, Aboitiz, Sy, Consunji, and Pangilinan now dominate the industry.

Onerous Contracts: During President Ramos' term, Independent Power Producers (IPPs) were given "take-or-pay" contracts that guaranteed payments regardless of actual electricity consumption. This resulted in massive debts for the National Power Corporation (NPC).

The EPIRA law, instead of breaking monopolies, has facilitated the rise of power giants who prioritize profits over public welfare.

The Transmission Monopoly: NGCP

The privatization of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) is another critical chapter in EPIRA's legacy. The grid, considered the "crown jewel" of the power sector, was handed to a consortium led by Chinese state-owned State Grid Corporation of China and local conglomerates led by Enrique Razon and Robert Coyiuto.

While privatization was supposed to improve infrastructure, it has raised significant concerns about transparency, national security, and accountability.

Energy Injustice: Who Bears the Brunt?

The analysis paints a stark picture of energy poverty, where millions of Filipinos still lack reliable electricity access. Rural and far-flung communities remain underserved, and subsidies intended to address these gaps often fall short.

In Barangay Pamilacan, Bohol, solar installations have transformed lives by creating jobs and raising incomes.

However, such success stories remain isolated, and systemic issues continue to block widespread change.

The report highlights that energy injustice perpetuates economic inequality, with the bottom 40% of Filipinos holding as much income share as the top 1%.

Regulatory Capture and Governance Failures

EPIRA created institutions like the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM) to oversee the power sector. However, these agencies have often been plagued by inefficiency, corruption, and regulatory capture.

The debts inherited by PSALM from NPC continue to be a heavy financial burden.

The ERC has been criticized for its lack of transparency and for favoring corporate interests over consumer welfare.

The Just Energy Transition: A Way Forward

Amidst the failures, the call for a Just Energy Transition resonates strongly. The transition to renewable energy is not just about sustainability but also about equity and inclusivity.

Renewable energy projects like solar farms and microgrids have shown promise.

Decentralizing power production and empowering electric cooperatives are seen as crucial steps.

The book emphasizes that the energy transition must prioritize people's needs over corporate profits.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

The findings in "Saan Umabot ang Bente Mo: EPIRA 20 Years After" are a wake-up call for policymakers, industry leaders, and citizens. EPIRA, while founded on noble intentions, has largely failed in its mission to deliver affordable, reliable electricity to all Filipinos.

Moving forward, the country must:

Strengthen Regulatory Oversight: Ensure that agencies like ERC and PSALM operate transparently and independently.

Empower Local Communities: Invest in decentralized renewable energy systems.

Hold Industry Players Accountable: Demand fairness and accountability from corporate giants.

The promise of a just, equitable, and sustainable energy future is still achievable — but only if decisive, collective action is taken.

"Sunshine is the best disinfectant," the book reminds us. As Filipinos face rising electricity bills and persistent energy poverty, transparency, accountability, and public participation will be key in driving the change the country desperately needs.

The time for reform is now. The power is in our hands.