DepEd eyes data-driven criteria to solve classroom shortages

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) will be including data-driven criteria to determine and prioritize areas with the most severe classroom shortages.

In a statement yesterday, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said classroom allocations must be responsive to school needs and directed toward areas facing the most severe shortages. 

Angara made this assurance after the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) issued a report on gaps in allocations for local government units (LGUs) with the highest estimated shortages, based on initial 2026 allocations.

DepEd stressed that allocation decisions will continue to weigh the severity of shortages, site readiness, project feasibility and implementation timelines. 

Angara explained that in order to accelerate infrastructure delivery, DepEd is deploying a multi-pronged strategy that integrates Department of Public Works and Highways-led construction, LGU partnerships, public-private partnerships, DepEd Learning Continuity Spaces and collaborative initiatives with both government and private sector organizations. 

Under the current LGU-led classroom construction initiative, allocations cover 439 LGUs, 1,955 schools and 8,777 classrooms nationwide.

Complementing these efforts, DepEd’s tripartite agreements with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. and 48 LGUs have so far secured 576 classrooms for construction in priority communities.

To strengthen transparency and accountability, DepEd maintains oversight through regular physical and financial progress reporting, technical validation and monitoring protocols across division, regional and central office levels.